SWAN Rehab and Stroke Support Group

My physical therapy center, SWAN Rehab, opened a second location in Goodyear when Kay Wing, the original owner, sold her business to a new company called Rehab without Walls. SWAN has kept its name and the new location is located only about 10 minutes from my house. They are now starting a stroke support group, and I am very excited because this is a much needed resource, especially in the West Valley. I had the opportunity to speak at one of their first meetings, share my story, and my rehab experience. I had the opportunity to sell a few of my books and loved connecting with other stroke survivors.

 

Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA)

I have learned so much during my journey of challenges and this last one with my possible cancer diagnosis was no exception. Our plans aren't always the same as God's plans but as we look at how He works, how the different plans intersect, and how everything comes together, I stand back in amazement. Countless times it started out as my plans but because I have a strong faith, I can see God's hand in it.

- My move to MN for my career ultimately led me to Dainis who knew from watching his dad with his mom what it would take to live with a wife with medical challenges

- My job change to the church from corporate to help our family planning just 3 weeks before my stroke that may have saved my life

- a move to AZ to give Dainis a new career but ultimately placed me with a wonderful therapy program and on the way to recovery

- writing my story to help others which has turned into a new passion I never knew I had and opened more doors

- a possible cancer diagnosis that led to amazing opportunities to share my story, support others, and continue my passion to connect

I said when I received my diagnosis in February and was launching my book that I did not understand the timing but would share my story, use this in my journey, and volunteer if I could. After recovering from surgery, I attended my first dinner to start connecting with other patients at met a woman from Dallas named Onjalai. I had the great privilege of seeing her again this week, on her last day of chemo. Many patients travel back to CTCA on a weekly basis just for treatment. I have been so blessed by this experience so far and look forward to the journey ahead. I am thankful God has given me a purpose through my challenges! 

I am now conducting a creative writing class with patients on a weekly basis to help them use writing as an opportunity for healing. This is not an easy journey and I am happy to support others any way I can.

The Byrd's Nest: My Book

 I am so thankful for all those that have supported me on my writing journey, both near and far. It has been an absolutely incredible year and I could not be more blessed by the support I have received. Karla Byrd, owner of The Byrd's Nest Gift Shop in Gladewater, Texas is

one more example of support. One of my writer friends, BJ, was doing a book signing at Karla's shop so I reached out to see if she would be at all interested in my book. She bought 20 copies and has them on display there in her gift shop. I am beyond excited that my words and story have gone out to so many people and complete strangers have embraced and believed in me enough to support me.

Another amazing example of this is a contact I made through Facebook who ministers to women in the prison in Ft. Worth. She was also interested in using my book with her women in the prison. I am thankful for each opportunity that unfolds for God to use my story to help someone.