Exactly one year ago today I was given a gift. Primarily the gift of a second chance at life but ultimately much more than that.
I was given the gift of really knowing how much my friends and family care for me.
I was given the gift of prayer and support from people all around this world whom I have never met except virtually on 365. And I was humbled by that.
I was given the gift of skilled and knowledgeable doctors and health care providers.
I was given the gift of a dramatic marking point to see all the changes and accomplishments I have made in only one year.
I don't recommend changing your life in this way but for me it was a blessing that has made me aware and grateful for so many things in my life that I often took for granted before. Little things, like being able to turn over in my sleep, like holding my camera, like getting my own shower without having to plan for it. Big things, like preparing a meal for my family, like sewing for my grandchildren, like being able to drive myself wherever I need to go instead of waiting for someone to take me.
It was too signifcant of an event to not publicly acknowledge the change it has made in me and my life. Too significant to not thank you all for the part you played in my recovery too. You gave me a reason to get up some days just to see your images. Responding to your photos was physical therapy for my broken wrist as I typed on the keyboard. Your generosity with cards and gifts lifted my spirits on some of my darkest days and gave me a reason to look forward to each new day. You may never know how much 365 influenced my recovery, but it did, and for that I thank you.
Katy, first off congratulation on your one anniversary. I didn't know you then, having just recently started following you. I find your story, and your photo so moving and powerful that I had to respond. Thank you for sharing it here, I'm so glad to have read it. Best wishes.
@slash Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, Susan. I appreciate the follow too but couldn't find your name on my list. I am glad you were moved.
I cannot believe it has been a year today, Katy. Love your photo and what you wrote and so glad you are here today. It sure tests a person to go through something like this. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful and supportive community here on 365. Hugs to you.
Very deep words and image reflecting on your accident one year ago. I must say that you are the one who gave us a big lesson in determination and tenacity, and that you put all your energy to get back on your feet and say: I made it. I'm very happy to see you doing so well.
Time sure does fly by quickly although I can only imagine how slow each day went for you. It broke my heart to see you so broken and helpless. Each day is a blessing and I'm so happy you are still here to share in it. You are one strong woman that I will alway admire.
How very inspiring and brave to look back on it yourself and sharing it with us. Every moment is a choice and when we see it staring back at us, we need to reach deep into our very soul to know what the next step will be. Thank you for sharing it with us. We are never alone as long as we allow others to enter our hearts and lives. ♥
@anazad511 That is really so generously nice of you to say, Ana. I am glad to be here and doing so well too! Thanks for all you did to lift my spirits.
oh, my goodness! sometimes, like the other day when we were having an exchange about the sewer tart photos, i couldn't believe that just a while back, i was crying just seeing and looking at your photos the first few days you were in the hospital. and i cried even more as davette gave us daily updates and photos of your ordeal. and seeing this again, and reading how far you've come away from that ordeal, makes me cry some more (now i look like a bloated raccoon! waaah!). as ana wrote, your suffering and recovery also gave us lessons in determination. i am so glad you're well, i am so glad you're here! cheers, my friend!
@summerfield First thanks for the FAV and second thanks for the compassion, concern and support. I am touched. By the way, I happen to like bloated raccoons too! ;~} Thanks Vicki!
Goodness a year already, you have come along way in that year. The reflected post above was my first 'meeting' with you. It shocked me to the core I can tell you. I logged in daily for updates. I kept thinking of your family and what they must have been going through they were my initial first thought, having been that family member. Seeing your progress has been inspirational, to see such determination and spirit. I am glad to have you as a virtual friend hugs cx
Hi Katy. I have not met you before (virtually) but I came across this picture on sixws. I found your post so interesting and inspirational! I checkedout your story from a year ago and your posts. It made me doubly realise just how precious and supportive this community is. So glad you are well now. How fickle life is and how much we take it for granted. Thank you for helping me to reflect on this and being such an inspiration Katy. Fav and follow.
Oh, Katy! This is wonderful... the photo and the story. I am just in the middle of posting about this on my FB page for Throwback Thursday. Today is my anniversary day of your accident, since you didn't share that first day! I am humbled by your fighting spirit and honored that I was able to be there to help you along the way. Your 365 followers were absolutely amazing with their support and I am witness to how important they were to your healing. I'd tag them all, but I am afraid I'd leave someone out and hurt some feelings, so I just hope they will read this and know how much I love each of them for their love and support for you. Feeling very lucky to have you in my life... ❤︎
@claireuk So touched by your comment, Claire! Thanks for thinking of my family as they were the rock that held me up the most! Blessed to have you for a friend too!
@mzzhope thanks so much Hope for taking time with all you have going on in your life right now! I appreciate your support too because I feel you have gone through so much more than I have.
@macromover That was such a nice comment, Jan! I appreciate the view comment and FAV. I am happy to be a source for your reflection. Thanks too for the follow.
@marilyn I can't even find the words to tell you how grateful I am for all you gave to me and still do! My family made my presence possible with everything you did. Thank you so much for all your kind words and like you I hope everyone sees this so they can know how important they were and still are too> Blessed to have you for a sister! ♥
Katie I know exactly how you feel! You are an awesome person after going through what you went through to come back with such a wonderful attitude. I am proud to say I know you!
What a fabulous way to mark your journey! I can hardly believe it's already a year - I still remember so well the shock when I saw the photo your sister (I think) uploaded and told us. Well done, you! On the wonderful recovery you have made!
Great, great shot and yes even though it was a very difficult time, there were lots of blessings too. I love how you're looking back on it. So, so cool Katy and I'm so thankful that you've had such a successful recovery. xoxo
@eudora I am touched by that support, Diane! Not a day goes by that I don't remember where I might have been today and thank God for the gift of where i am instead.
October 30th, 2014
Leave a Comment
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.
