Blessings Abound in My Life

Shirley Comes to My Aid

For the past month, my cousin Shirley has been a blessing, helping me four hours a week. She even completed coursework to become a certified home health care aide. With spring here and my mobility returning, her experience, culinary skills, and tidy nature have been a tremendous help. Between Shirley and Dianne (who works 16 hours a week), I am fortunate to have two such caring women assisting my mom and me.

 

My Mom’s Constant Support

Speaking of support, my mother, Joann, remains the most important woman in my life. Though she has slowed down a bit, her strong will and wonderful sense of humor never waver. Our family is truly blessed by her presence as a mother and grandmother.

 

Jesus, I Trust in You!

I recently finished my latest walking video, set to "Someone's Watching Over Me" by Hilary Duff. It features the Divine Mercy image as a tribute to my recovery from foot surgery. During the most painful days of my recovery—when I struggled with disuse osteopenia and the discomfort of the halo brace—singing the Divine Mercy Chaplet and holding my rosary provided me with essential peace. I am also deeply grateful to the nurses at Comprehensive Health Network and Father James Trick for their instrumental roles in my healing.

 

A Season of Unexpected Miracles

Lately, God has intervened in my life in ways I never imagined. Traveling with my friend Mary Ann, I’ve experienced a "small miracle": a total sense of ease. For three years, I felt panicky in public groups, but now I feel safe and joyful. I want to shout from the rooftops: "THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR BLESSING ME SO MUCH!" I am nothing without Him, and I give Him all the glory for this transformation.

 

St. Faustina and the Sisters of Reparation

On April 18th, Mary Ann and I attended a beautiful event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Coldwater. The Sisters of Reparation from Steubenville shared the life of St. Faustina and the message of Divine Mercy. It was a privilege to meet Mother M. Wendy McMenamy and Sister M. Grace Kelly, and to venerate the relics they brought. I encourage everyone to learn more about their mission at sistersofreparation.org.

 

Seeking the Intercession of Sr. M. Alfonsa

The Sisters are also promoting the cause for the sainthood of Sr. M. Alfonsa, who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis before passing in 1994. Because I also live with RA, Mother M. Wendy took special time to speak with me about her. Knowing that Mother Wendy personally cared for Sr. Alfonsa for 12 years gave me immense hope. I am praying for her intercession for my own physical healing and continued inner peace.

 

 

A Life Filled with Blessings

God has guided me toward gifted surgeons, Dr. Thomas Lee and Dr. William DeCarbo, who have helped me walk again. More importantly, He has placed kind-hearted people in my path who helped me conquer my fears. For the first time in two years, I am truly looking forward to being out in the world. Thank you, Jesus; I trust in You!