Blog
The five stages of grief
The five stages of grief consist of denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Apparently not everyone experiences all stages and not always in that order. It’s easy to recognize a need to process grief with the loss of a loved one. It’s not as easy when transitioning through a life-changing event, whether it’s yours or a loved one’s.
He Knows the Desires of Our Hearts
Have you ever experienced answered prayers that weren’t even asked? Goals you may have had but felt were no longer within reach? As I notice these little (or big) miracles I recognize God’s hand in my life. I’m constantly reminded that He knows me better than I know myself.
It’s the Little Things That Make a Difference
A few months ago, I replaced my power chair due to outdated software and a lack of replacement parts available for the old chair. Changing wheelchairs is not a simple process. After ten years in the old chair, it felt like it fit like a glove. Ten years of technology changes, model updates and in this case an entirely different make of chair, produces a number of adaptation issues.
Where would we be without them?
Last week my riding lesson went especially well, and I was cognitive of how valuable my team of volunteers were to me and my progression with horseback riding. They’re with me every step of the way (literally). Without them I wouldn’t be the person I am today. Someone that experiences joy and recognizes the beauty in my life simply because I have something to look forward to every week. Something that wouldn’t be available to me without their dedication and service.
Angels Among Us
As an incomplete quadriplegic, my hand strength is fairly limited rendering me incapable of releasing the gearshift from the park position. A few weeks ago, I discovered a company (Mobility Innovations) that installs adaptive equipment for driving. Unfortunately, the gearshift device recommended for my van isn’t practical for my specific needs. This is where an angel stepped into my life.
Is your glass half full?
I’m not sure if I've always been a glass-half-full kind of person. One thing's for certain, over the past 27 years I’ve learned to reprogram my perspective. It was a matter of survival. I determined to avoid wallowing in despair and experience joy in my life again, despite the circumstances.
Miracles do Happen
I know it’s sometimes hard to believe in miracles. Especially when God doesn't always deliver based on our timing or expectations. It's easy to forget that He knows what we need and when we need it compared to what we think we need and when we want it. Personally, I don't believe in coincidences. I don't believe in fate. And I don't believe in predestination. However, I do believe Heavenly Father knows us personally and loves us individually. I know that He knows the desires of my heart and where I can find joy. Recently I experienced a small miracle in my life.
When the Going Gets Tough - Laugh
The Christmas season always reminds me of an experience my husband and I had several years ago. I love picking out his gifts and surprising him on Christmas day. However, playing secret Santa can be quite challenging as I rely heavily on Guy for assistance with outings. But that year I ventured out on my own (my van is equipped with hand-controls), headed to the mall, and proceeded to buy as many gifts as I could stack on my lap.
In Memory of Winter 2005-2021
Winter was a true ambassador of hope and perseverance and had deeply touched my heart as the star of Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2 (I own and watch both movies frequently) as well as the Clearwater livestream cam. Although I never had the opportunity to meet her in person, I have had the unique experience of being "rescued" by a dolphin. As a tribute to Winter, I am reposting a 2017 post that describes that experience.
Count Your Blessings
It makes me think how random events and choices potentially have long-lasting consequences. Some of these consequences are within our control, others are not. I often wonder which direction my life would have taken had I not been steered down the road of transverse myelitis. I only know with certainty how it's playing out while living with TM.
Overcoming Adversity
A few months ago, I was asked to give a talk at a fireside held for the youth of our church. The subject was "overcoming adversity." Needless to say, I shared some experiences that I encountered while adjusting to the onset of Transverse Myelitis (TM) and the resulting paralysis. Focusing on how I overcame those trials turned out to be pretty easy since I was looking at them in the rearview mirror. I know with unwavering certainty that Heavenly Father was by my side, actually is by my side, through every trial and tribulation. Looking back at the years surrounding my initial diagnosis, and the ensuing growth from surmounting the challenges, and even thriving from them, I can see His hand in everything I went through.
My 1,200 Lb. Therapist
My introduction to equine therapy began the day of my assessment (right out of the shoot so to speak). I had set up an appointment with Deb, the on-site physical therapist, to assess my needs and determine which horse was best suited to me. That evening I met her at the riding facility where she asked me a few medical questions then led me out to the barn.
At The Mercy of Others
Twenty-six years ago I was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis. My condition resulted in partial paralysis from the neck down which means I’m considered an incomplete quadriplegic. I am not ambulatory and have limited use of my arms. Compared to some I have quite a bit of mobility and independence. Compared to others I have very little mobility and independence. Normally I prefer not to focus on the downside of my situation but occasionally it gets to me, and I know it gets to others experiencing debilitating infirmities. I hope my candid “sharing” can help us all recognize that we’re not alone on this journey.