Walking With God & My Community: Thank You!

These past five months have been a journey of frustration and triumph. While I appreciate every encouraging word left on my blog, I cannot take full credit for my progress. As my blog title, "Walking With God By My Side," suggests, I am only here through God’s grace. He gives me the strength to believe I will get stronger every day. All glory belongs to Him!

My Foundation: Family & Friends

I am richly blessed by my family, who have supported me for years. To my parents, Alvin and Joann; my siblings, Bob, Ruth, Russ, and Rick; and my extended family—thank you for being my bedrock.

Growing up as a shy child in a large family, I always treasured the visits from my aunts, uncles, and cousins. Though health challenges made me more reclusive in my teens, your kindness at family gatherings has always meant the world to me. To my small but mighty circle of friends: your support keeps me going.

My Daily Support System

• Dianne: My neighbor and aide since 2005. She is the ultimate "early bird," often starting her work at 7:00 AM while I’m still recovering from restless nights. Her help in the kitchen allows me the rest I need to face the day.
• Mary Ann: A friend since the 80s. We share a deep faith and a love for laughter. I look forward to our "fun" outings next summer once I’m more mobile!
• Diana: My aide since 2009. She has a gift for lifting me out of a "funk" with her humor and shared faith. Her passion for helping others is truly a blessing.
• Father David Zink: A joyful man of God whose weekly visits with Holy Communion provide immense spiritual strength. His kindness, humor, and knowledge of the Saints are a refreshing light in my life.

 

The Community of North Star

Living in a small town is a gift. Every time I walk, a neighbor says hello. It is a kind-hearted, wonderful place to live and a community I’m proud to call home.

My Medical Team

I owe my improved mobility to the following professionals:

• Surgeons: Dr. Thomas Lee and Dr. William DeCarbo (Orthopedic Foot & Ankle) for their expert skills.
• Care Management: Vicki Binkley at Carestar, for ensuring my medical needs are met.
• Nursing & Care: The professional and caring nursing team at Comprehensive Health Network (Glenna, Lil, Linda, and the many others) and aides Teresa and Shawn.
• Transport: Spirit Medical Transport, whose EMTs treated me with the utmost respect during my trips to Westerville. 

 

To anyone I may have missed: please know that I deeply value your thoughtfulness. Thank you all for walking this path with me!