Hello all
As I begin to write this update I can barely believe that 2010 is almost over and ALL we have been through this year. As I was first diagnosed with a cavernous angioma in my brain in September 2009, we knew last New Year's Eve that 2010 was going to be a big year of making important decisions regarding my health. While last December 31st was just the beginning of us finding our way, I am still in awe of how far we came in just one year! I would have never believed that I would decide to have major brain surgery (considering I am an incredible wimp and "elective" brain surgery originally sounded petrifying to me, but the alternative became even more daunting as time went on), end up with a stroke, and make a nearly 75% recovery from the stroke in three weeks, and all of this in a year’s time! Crazy!!! One thing that has not changed or perhaps is more clear than ever is my commitment to be thankful for all that each day has to offer and my thankfulness for being married to such an amazing man (John you are the best!!! I couldn't imagine traveling this journey without you!!!) and my immense gratitude to share in raising our precious little boy!
As we toasted at New Year’s Eve last December 31st, I would have never anticipated the amount of challenges that we would face in 2010 and I am hopeful our most difficult days are in the past! 2011 will be all about completing my recovery and getting back on track with a more precise focus than ever before. While in rehab I thought many times that I didn't need this type of character building but I got it non-the-less! I guess you can never have too much character...right?????? What a humbling experience to wake-up at 36 years old and not know how to tie your shoes!! Glad to have re-mastered that now!
As we reflect on all 2010 brought us, gratitude continues to be the theme. There could never be enough time nor words to thank everyone that has helped us along the way, especially this past year and on this blog. We appreciate everyone’s kindness and helpfulness in all ways...more than we could ever express!! I may have made a miraculous recovery but that was only possible because of all the love and encouragement that was received on my end. THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!
While our midnight toast may look a little different this year (water only for me), it will be extra sweet since we are no longer burdened by wondering when my brain might decide to bleed! YEAH!!!! Another year to come... to live!!! CHEERS, HAPPY NEW YEAR! We wish you all health, happiness, and much love in the year to come. Let this be your best year yet!!!!
I will continue to take it one day at a time... and I'm still getting better every day! J
Now more than ever we are truly "Thankful for Everyday"!
From John, Jack, and myself - love to you all,
Elizabeth, John and Jack,
ReplyDeleteSo great to read about your wonderful progress! How great that you, Elizabeth are on the blog. There is so much to be grateful for :). You are all such a big blessing to our Family! You continue to be in our prayers daily.
We wish you the very best for 2011!
With love, Aunt Cathy & Uncle Joe
Definitely a lot to be thankful for this year! We are all so lucky to have you with us and to have shown us what true strength, bravery, persistence and optimism are. You are so inspiring and I am glad that everything seems to be settling back into some sense of normalcy! I wish you, John and Jack nothing but the best in 2011. Actually, to our whole family!
ReplyDeleteLove you, Christopher
Wishing you a wonderful and healthy 2011!
ReplyDeleteHi Elizabeth! Happiness is what I'm feeling while reading the blog you posted. You are one tough cookie. Keep it up Missy. We're all here for you.
ReplyDeletefrom your friends at Tarzana Hospital,
Marilou
And from old Tarzana friends that left L.A. for a better life! Love Rachael
ReplyDelete