Hanging in There

I've been doing my best to block out the pain and I try to participate in activities and enjoy life to the fullest as much as possible. Luckily for me, I have very understanding and patient friends who care about me and who are supportive, and also help me out with different things that I can't reach or get to.

Sometimes I really can't do much and just have to Ice my lower back to bring down the inflammation and nerve pain. I tell myself often that "it could always be worse, at least I have my upper body" and it's so true, so I feel so blessed for all that IS good in my life everyday! Just looking around I can see so much to be grateful for. I hold onto the good memories and let go of the rest.

I'm hopeful that my pain will become more manageable and that I'll be able to participate in ALL the upcoming Marathons and benefit 5k's including Michael's Special Run in Hollywood Beach on October 16th and the Women in Distress SAFE-RUN, WALK Oct 30th at Markham Park in Weston !  For more information on these events go to:
Michael's Run: http://www.specialcompass.com/    
Women in Distress 
http://safewalk2010.kintera.org%20/



In other news, Alex Lutin, with the help of Susan Krinsky, the day Rehabilitation Nurse, founded the support group which I attend at HealthSouth in Sunrise called the Spinal Cord Injury Support Group of South Florida. The group welcomes all types of disabilities. It is really great being involved with this support group. They are always planning special events for us! Thursday is Movie night, and Saturday the Norton Museum!

Alex and I received an "Advocate of Distinction" award at the 20th Anniversary of the American Disability Act Celebration from the Center for Independent Living of Broward. I was very touched to have received this award for my work in helping others too! The Center for Independent Living was a tremendous help to me also and I received a grant for a beautiful cement ramp with railings for the entrance of my home!

I do my best to encourage and inspire others to try and make a positive difference in peoples lives.

I'm hopeful to continue to help others to keep a positive outlook and also to help them find the resources they may need for some assistance as well. We all need each other, and the disabled need more help from others to manage their care and well being. A lot is taken for granted when we all need to realize that each day is a gift and we should appreciate everything that is good in our lives, and help others along the way.

God has blessed my life and given me the strength to carry on. I have a purpose for being here and I want to fulfill my purpose. God is good !