Amy's Blog

As the new year gets off to a decent start, I’d like to use my blog to thank some people for their love and support during a challenging 2011. 

I was promoted to a new position at my company in October of 2010, so 2011 got off to a challenging start as I learned the new position, managed my time, tried to find work/life balance, and study for a rigorous professional exam. 

In July, I was home celebrating Independence Day with Grandma when she had a stroke in the dining room at breakfast.  It was devastating.  The next several months of Grandma’s recovery were very tough on our entire family, especially me because we have been so close for so long.  Grandma has slowed down a lot since July, and it has been an adjustment for all of us. 

Those that are close to me know that stress management is not always my strong suit. 

There are a lot of people that have helped me through the last few months.  First of all, Grandma’s siblings and their spouses have been fantastic.  They were there at the hospital the day of the stroke, and have been there for me every step of the way with phone calls, emails, and words of encouragement about the test and Grandma’s recovery.  Secondly, Grandma’s nieces, my cousins have also been an incredible source of support for me with their phone calls, texts, emails, and just lending an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on. 

I have a core group of Kansas City friends who have also been great to me over the last several months. Putting up with me stressing out, being socially unavailable, and lending their expertise in various fields related to psychology and stroke recovery. 

There are also a handful of colleagues who have kept in touch and helped me get through the professional exam and always ask how Grandma is doing with a genuine care and concern. 

I am so thankful and appreciative of all of the love and support that so many family, friends, and colleagues have shown to me over the last several months.  You have definetely made the tough times not seem so tough.  I hope that I can continue to show you how grateful that I am for you.