Blog
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A few months ago, I replaced my power chair due to outdated software and a lack of replacement parts available for the old chair.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.
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.