When Al, my brother passed away three weeks ago, I never had a doubt from the moment I sat in the funeral that somehow I was going to make a difference. I knew that I wanted, no I needed to help others.
I have always been the one who loves to reach out to others, but now I knew I was on a mission. I never want anyone, friend or stranger to ever have to go through what I did. I learned by taking care of him mainly alone, I was stronger than I gave myself credit for.
God walked me through that seven-year journey. He wiped my tears. His hands were my pillow. The days are still very tough for me. When I am home alone, the tears fall easy. The house echos with my own thoughts.
With the help of Peggy, Sue, and other friends they are encouraging me to get out of the house when I can. Learning to smile again is like a toddler taking steps. I am stepping out in darkness but I am slowly seeing the light.
When I speak of Al my heart burst. Not only from tears but with an anxious energy. Like a horse jumping at the bit, waiting for the rider to say go. I prayed, and I still pray daily to be of use to someone.
There is someone out in the big world that needs me. I want to be there for comfort and help. I want all to know they are worth caring about.
Well God has been guiding me ever so gently and I had two things God gifted me this week. The first one is I am working again. I am helping others in their home. It is part-time, but this is alright.
I am working on Al’s book. I have several chapters written that tell the story of his life and now I am beginning to fill up the empty pages with the story of MSA, so I need that extra time.
The second gift was a phone call I received last evening. I had a lady message me on my Facebook page asking for my phone number. She stated she wanted to talk to me about Multiple System Atrophy.
Last night she called. I believe we chatted about half an hour. She asked questions and I did my best to answer her. I don’t know too much yet, but I did learn that she works for a Hospice in another state near by.
She invited me to be a speaker to the staff, teaching them what I have learned about MSA. I don’t know how soon, or exactly how it will be handled, but I felt wonderful. A chance to let Al live on through the lives of others.
I looked up at the heavens and thanked God immediately after telling her I would love to help in any way I can. God did this for me. He isn’t done with me yet. I have much to share. God is opening doors so that I may be his tool for this terrible illness.
Terry, as I read this, you touched me deeply, as I was thinking about loved ones I have lost this past year. You, my friend are touching those in desperate needs right now. I told you once, that the Lord had a bigger plan for you, and this venue He has given you, will bring much needed healing. As you reach out to others, you will in a sense, will reach out to you. Does that make sense to you? We miss our love ones, but knowing where they are, brings a sense of relief, and joy. God loves you, and so do I. Happy Easter.
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Oh Parrill, this is a beautiful comment. I just want to do good in this world. Follow where God leads me and help when I can. Thank you for believing in me my friend
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This is wonderful Terry! 😀 ❤
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Thank you so very much my dear friend
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Terry, your brother was lucky to have had a sister like you. My sympathy to you as you go through your healing. Keep the faith.
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Thanks so much Enigma. I was lucky to have my brother, and now I will walk the path God leads me. Hugs my friend
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So amazingly proud of you, and happy for you!!!!
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Hi AR. Thank you so much. You have helped me so much
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Bless you dear one!!
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What wonderful news! Congrats!
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Thanks so much dear friend
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So way cool! You go girl! I knew you could do it! I think you should also write a book to help others with MSA. I am sure it would help so many… I am glad God and Al gave you your path! You will be great and I see you taking this far! You will see care giving in a new light! Your heart is finding peace… Big Hugs Girl Friend!
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awesome!…and look how soon this path was started for you!
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Such beautiful blessings for a beautiful soul. God is truly taking care of you.
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Terry
My love and prayers are with you. You just have to take one day at a time. It sounds as though you are in tuned to God’s leading. Stay in tuned to His voice. Allow Him and other comfort you when you need comfort. Don’t be afraid of the quiet moments because that is when God speaks loudest at times and those are the best times to reflect and let it all out if you need to. Take your time. Everyone grieves in their own way and in their own time.
KNOW that it is in HIS time that He makes ALL things beautiful….He has a beautiful plan for you.
Hugs
April
Psalm 121
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This is so exciting! You are going to be a blessing to so many, and will be blessed yourself knowing you have found and acted on your calling.
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I hope I can be a help to someone Mona. So much to learn about MSA
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I am so sorry my friend. I have found out of the deepest losses comes hope and life. Like a seed that sprouts after planting it underground. It breaks through the Earth and blossoms. God bless you on your new journey. May you touch and heal many my friend. 😉 Diana
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Thanks so much Diana. I just want to help
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Terry, I think maybe you were gifted with your brother Al so that you could learn and share with the world what you have learned on this journey you have taken with him.
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Thanks Kathy. I used to wonder why I was the one caring for him. Maybe you are right
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this is great news…get ready for an adventure!
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Thanks Kerry. I will take God’s lead
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This is great news, yes God leads us and uses us in ways we never imagine. It is so good to know that your experience can help others in their struggle!
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Thanks Ute. I hope I can be of help to someone
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Bravo, my beautiful friend!
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Thanks Julie
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The fact that you have strength left and are willing to use it so constructively in Al’s memory is a beautiful thing, Terry. You have my sincere admiration. God speed.
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This is wonderful news, it sounds like some good may yet come out of such a painful ordeal. Blessing to you.
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This is what I am hoping for Dom. To allow my brother’s spirit live on by teaching others symptoms and things to watch for so they are not so alarmed and afraid. Thank you very much
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Wonderful news Terry. You have so much knowledge to share about this terrible disease.
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Thank you Joy. I just want to help others so they won’t be afraid when a new symptom arrives
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Beauty out of ashes! So glad this door of opportunity has opened for you. Hugs!
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Thanks so much dear Patty. I hope you have a wonderful Easter with your family
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Thank you Terry, I know it will be so difficult for you tomorrow, I hope it comforts you in knowing we are all praying for you.
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Yes. I knew this would happen dear friend.
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You did? Thank you for your continued faith in me Cathy. Hugs
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Wonderful Terry!
So great to have the friends that you do – that are there for you as you transition into another part of life.
Your second prayer – I believe is a way of Al saying – I’m here – in Heaven – & I’m ok. 😉
{Hugs}
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Oh I hope so RoSy
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How Wonderful… That is so like God!!!
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God is good!!
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Of course God has a plan for you! I am glad He have not waited to reveal it though! Take care, go with blessings and remember as this is God’s work you will, also for this, have God’s timing, strength and wisdom. I wish you a blessed Easter, dear Terry!
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Thank you so much Solveig. I hope I please him
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I think you have a wonderful opportunity here in the speech to actually bridge the gap between the professional care givers and the family of sufferers you can give perspective to how the professionals are viewed by family while explain that while the family appreciate that they are doing their jobs, that those tiny little extra’s from a phone call to the squeeze of a hand on a bad day can make the world of difference
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It definitely can make a day, even one smile can change so many things and professionals don’t understand MSA. I so hope I can do a good job
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You were a real blessing to Al, Terry. I look forward to the progress with the book 🙂 x
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Oh thank you Ken. I tried very hard to make life comfortable for him. I am working hard on that new book. Thanks for having faith in me
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Terry, you have already made a difference. I can’t imagine what Al’s life would have been like at the end if not for you. I am quite sure you will continue to make a difference, probably without even realising it.
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What a wonderful comment you have given to me. I treasure this. Thank you Elaine
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You are not only brave but incredibly selfless and so full of love it’s awesome! May you find your calling in helping others and grow ever closer to the light you are finally seeing. My prayers and thoughts are always with you and Al in heaven 🙂
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Thank you Arman. I guess that is what we are all doing, moving closer to the light. It is important to me to be here for those who need me, to live a life that is pleasing to God. I love having wonderful friends like you. Thank you
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