Power of endurance, continued...

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Click on the below article link to obtain background information to this blog post:

Examiner

I know a lot of people who have survived a lot of stuff but they do not live as if they know they are almost superhuman for the stuff they have already overcame in their lives. This is crazy to me. If you only knew, what we, on the outside can see, you would be more secure in your ability to persevere!

I believe first you overcome and then you must turn these obstacles into stepping stones in order to reach bigger and better things. This is the glory William Barclay is referring to in the quote I shared within the article.

We all know the words, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” It is important to own this strength. Why, because you are better for it!

What have you survived? Share your testimony. I am here to listen or read!

Diagnosed with Autism, continued...

Click on the below link to obtain background information about this blog post:

Examiner article


I love to see a Mom who is 100% vested into her family and to see how this investment reaps the ultimate reward; contributing healthy children who become successful adults! When I asked her about what she is most proud of, she got emotional. Her response, “This always makes me cry. I am proud of my family. I am proud of Michael in the work he is willing to put forward to understand his surroundings as well as us. I am proud of the effort that we have all put in to our family as a whole. As far as I am concerned, it is not just about Michael, it’s about every member of our family. We can now say, 17 years later, we have raised and continue to raise great kids. Challenges aside, which we have had many, I always look forward to what is coming with pride and confidence.”

They are successful in embracing each other and teaching and learning from one another. ANCA has helped them achieve healthy living; This community is truly heaven sent!

Can you recommend any organizations that are helping you? If so, send me a note. I love to learn about new programs that help our communities.

She shared memories of her own daughter, continued...

Click the below link for back ground information to this blog post:

Examiner

Naomi Cole is my brother's mother in law and a family friend. They moved into our neighborhood when we were growing up. She is a remarkable and loving person. I can't even imagine losing a child, as she said, "A parent shouldn't have to lose a child!" It's clear she embraced change and the spirit of survival which gifted her with strength and motivation to move on.

Her advice to others going through this life-altering loss, "Focus on something that will make it better for your family here, take it day by day; it helps you get through the sorrow. It makes you feel better to know your trying to help someone else. It doesn’t happen over night!"

Today, I'm grateful for the friendship she has with my mom. They are both bereaving the loss of their husbands and can better understand each other's sadness. Everyone needs loved ones and friends to help get through times of sorrow. If you don't have someone in your immediate physical life, you can find help in our virtual communities on line also, have you found your support?

Words of survival

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I continue to feel Louella in my heart!

Words of Survival

I'm hopeful the words of wisdom written below as communicated by my neighbor in October, 2009 is as inspiring to you as it was for me when I was even more awe-inspired by Louella's strength as the interview educated me about her life filled with such hardship. She feels her journey, thus far, has been filled with more good than bad. Of course, this glass half full perspective is the foundation of her world. Louella is truly grateful for the time she has had on this earth and I'm fortunate to have moved next to such a great neighbor. I can only hope some of her wonderful characteristics rub off on me!

Here is the article as it was originally posted on Examiner.com before they closed their doors and took the content off of the Internet:

I’ve used this forum, thus far, to offer advice for overcoming anxiety and hardship. It is only appropriate to finish my first week with the Examiner by sharing some insightful words from a remarkable woman, someone who has and continues to triumph over tragedy. Let me introduce you to Louella Gaines from Augusta Township in Ypsilanti, Michigan.  In her own words she is, “A tough lady!”

Louella’s heartbreak started early in life with the loss of her Mother at the tender age of three. Being the youngest of ten children, she was fortunate to have been loved and taken care of by her older siblings.  Later in life, she mourned the loss of her newborn baby and she also bereaved the death of her adult son, Don. She has endured a 40 year battle with cancer: overcoming a Hysterectomy, breast cancer (Mastectomy), the loss of a lung and kidney and frequent bouts of skin cancer (Melanoma) requiring necessary on-going extractions. Louella’s routine often includes weekly trips to the doctor’s office.  She doesn’t enjoy going to the doctors but as she puts it, “The alternative isn’t a choice.” When I asked her if her battle has been worth it, she replied, “Yes, it is worthwhile for me and my family. I am happy to be alive and doing well!” 

She credits her success to her support system; the love from her family, strength from her 61 years of marriage to her husband Gene and faith from her relationship with God. Suzanne, her daughter, explained that her Mother’s strength comes naturally, “It is a part of her; she never had an option to be anything other than strong.” What advice does Louella offer someone who has just been diagnosed with cancer? She said firmly, “Listen to the doctor and get the surgery if necessary!”  What does she say to someone who is afraid to go to the doctors? “Go, learn to trust your doctor, develop a relationship with him and be very conscious of your body."

I imagine someone who has endured such a devastating journey might justify living their life resentful and intolerant of others but this isn’t Louella, she exudes the warmth of a caring, gentle soul.  She continues to stay positive offering a “for the best” attitude and thanking God every day for her life.

Click here to learn about cancer survivorship.