Hello all across the continents. Since Mum's last post and move back to the land of ice and snow, I've been left in charge of this project. Allow me to use this chance to apologize ahead of time for my spelling/grammatical errors. I just hope none of you reading this were English teachers from back in the day.
Since she left, and with my switch to the "transitional program" it has given me a chance to do things that I have wanted to do for the past year or so. For example, I finally had the opportunity to finally do the shopping I intended to do for my family last Christmas (damn "nap"). Oh well, what can you do? It has been nice having Mum here for support over the last year, but it does feel nice to be "in control" again.
On the note of support, allow me to take this opportunity to thank you all across this "round rock" for the support you have all extended. No one has had doubted from the beginning that I could accomplish this feat. That faith has made all the difference most days. Please pardon my "brain damaged philosophy", but this whole year has given me a second chance. An opportunity to right wrongs that were committed in the past, and a second chance to do those things for the better.
Anywho, allow me to sign off and enjoy the beautiful day we've been given. Thanks all, and take care.
Well, if I might add my two cents, I am so pleased that Mark feels comfortable without me hanging around all the time. Phone calls are good! I am so happy that he has made the recovery he has so far, and will continue to do so.
Being home has been a bit of an adjustment for me. Living in a house full of great people to spending time with just one wonderful person, has been nice this week. I must admit that I have kept close to home and got used to my old space once more. I did see some old friends, which was nice, but also just absorbed the idea of being back in the "land of ice and snow" as someone just recently reminded me!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Today is definitely bittersweet. I leave Tampa tomorrow to go home for good for the first time in a year. Mark has come such a long, long way in this time and we are so grateful that he is well enough to be on his own here with Jess's loving help. It is a day I have waited for, but at the same time, it tugs at my heart to leave behind all the wonderful people we have lived and worked with here. It was especially hard to say good bye.
To the nursing staff, Grisel, Jose, Annies, Marcia, the Dianas, Deana, Paula, Mo, Anne, Liz, Beth, Eppie, Mary, the Angels, Victor, Carmen, Katrina, Fortunata, Juanita, Bernice, Thessla, Josh, Marsha, Lisa, Kelly, Terri, Cheryl, Alana, Enrique, Rick, Blanca, Chris and Marti: You were the most loving, caring individuals and we were blessed to have you take care of Mark especially in the early days of our stay. Thank you.
To the therapists, Lindsay, Carrie, Earlene, Frederica, Jim, Barb, Karen, Amy, Tami, Barb, Judy, Kathryn, Imelda, Becky, Abby, Mary, Jamie, Tammy, and Linda: You helped Mark prove that he had determination and stamina, he could endure the pain, and move forward and we know you will continue to do so. Thank you.
To Dr. Scott, Dr. Mascarinas, Dr. Scholten, Dr. McCarthy, Dr. Rieszk, Dr. Melo, Dr. Miller, Dr. Nasser, Dr. Thors, and Dr. Richardson: Your patience and guidance, your knowledge and especially your devotion to Mark and me got us through the most difficult time in our lives and your continued medical excellence will see us through the next phase of his recovery. Thank you.
To the Family Support Group, Steve, Lenore, Olga, Gladys, and Annette: Your experience, knowledge and love each and every week gets everyone through the tears and laughter to continue on for another week. Thank you.
To the support liasions: CPT Turner, SGM Phillips, SSG Lumpiesz, SSG Burris, CMDR Hartford, Mary Ellen, Vince, Fr. Ed and June: You were always there when we needed anything and everything and continue to be so much for so many. Thank you.
To our "family" here: Veronica and Brad, RyAnne and Scot, Chris and JT, Debbie, Ed and John, Julie, Chris and Billy, Nellie and Jose, Rey and David, Leslie, Brianna, and Kevin, Meredith and Mike, Rodney, Ivonne and Anthony: You are our heroes and will continue to be. Don't ever give up hope for a better tomorrow. You have been through the worst that anyone could endure and you have. It will only be better each day. Your courage and determination are the finest anyone could every hope for. Thank you.
To AJ: You are the sunshine in a life often covered in clouds. Your smile turns the world right in just an instant. You are our hope for the future and may it be a future full of promises, peace and love, for you deserve everything the world holds dear. You are a treasure. Thank you.
Our blog will continue with Mark doing some of the work and we hope all of you who read it as part of your day will continue to do so. Without all the love and support from people all over the world, we would not have made it this far. Thank you.
Love, Ann Marie