Monday, June 29, 2009

It's a Wonderful Life....and Setbacks are Normal

So, I (Jodi) have decided that as much as I can, I am now taking over the blog. There are so many things I cannot do yet, but this is one thing I can do, and it feels a bit empowering. :) Plus, this will give me the chance to record my own perspective on what is happening with my recovery. There will likely still be posts from Tolan, my dad or sister from time to time, but I think this is something I can actually do for a while and that excites me!

I have decided that life is pretty darn wonderful. I didn't say it is perfect, but it is wonderful. This weekend I was sick again and couldn't keep any food down, clearly another "little" setback, but we all know that setbacks are part of life. But today, my mom and I were able to take the kids to the park and I walked 2 laps around the track (with a rest in between). That is 1 mile I walked, which in comparison to my "former" self, may not sound like much, but considering that 2 weeks ago today I was trying to walk 2 laps around the nurses station to convince them I was healthy enough to come home, it is HUGE progress. And, it is only 3 weeks ago that I was literally on death's door in the critical care unit at the hospital and had major surgery the next day. When I look how far I've come, how can I not feel blessed?? :) Again, it is truly a wonderful life!

Plus, both of my big kids told me today that my eye is looking better. It is still not perfect, I can't really see out of it yet, nor I can keep it open and it is still swollen, but it is getting better. Isn't life great??

I am feeling so blessed and so grateful and much of this is thanks to all of you...for your prayers, your love and support. Tears and emotions well up inside of me when I think of all of you and how much love I have felt from you. Thank you.

My friend, Shea, sent me a link to another blog that is amazing. http://www.jasonslifeisgood.blogspot.com/ is the site of a man who nearly died a few years ago when his surgery went terribly wrong. To see his outlook on life now and see the struggles he faces daily, I truly realized that no matter the challenge, we can always be strengthened by God and decide our own attitude toward life. Jason is still facing life-threatening health complications, yet he loves and cherishes each day. May we each do the same, regardless of our current situation, is my hope and prayer.

Love to all. Jodi

10 comments:

Karen Liu said...

Jodi,
You are truly a well spring of strength and courage. I admire your sheer will power and determination. You have been a wonderful example to me (and many others) in these last few weeks, as I have witnessed you handling your trials with grace, forbearance and dignity. I am thankful we were able to find each other again. As always, I continue to pray for you and your family. Liu

Anonymous said...

I am so glad to see you doing so much better. I have friends here in Md who have read the blog and who ask about you almost every time I see them. It is amazing to me how everyone on earth is really just one big family even though some of us have never even met. Keep getting better and keep smiling.
Buffy

Anonymous said...

So FUN to have you talk to us, Jodi! Means the world to those who know and love YOU.

It is a wonderful, amazing life...

...changed, better and blessed for being willing to participate! :o)

xo

Leslie M.

Nichole Giles said...

Yep, you're right, life is great. I'm so glad to hear you're doing better--even if you have small setbacks.

Quote of the day:
“Our strength grows out of our weaknesses” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Also, I'm giving away jewelry on my blog. Click here if you're interested.

Flints Facts said...

Jodi, you are very right it is a wonderful life and we are all so blessed!!! You are AMAZING!!!
Love you my friend!!!
Kelly

Joey said...

Jodi, your attitude is amazing. Just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and have followed your blog daily for the past 40 days or so. The updates have been so informative and allowed me to live your ordeal, from the sidelines. Wow! What can I say? You are doing so well now. Our family had been dealing with a diagnosis of Leukemia of my 20 year niece, Jasmine. I think you may remember me talking about her, She had neuroblastoma as a baby and is a miracle. Help us pray for her as she will be receiving chemo and a bone marrow transplant soon. I don't always comment but I think about you and pray for you daily. Love, Joey

Anonymous said...

You're awesome Jodi! I have a picture frame that says, "And I think to myself...what a wonderful world." Life is great, and sometimes we forget to see that. Thanks for reminding me. Love, Annette

Anonymous said...

Jodi, I am truly amazed by you. You give me strength each day. I am so thankful that you are doing okay, not wonderful, but okay. I am excited each time I see you progress and get stronger. I know you are thankful for all the improvements, but we are too. I too get teary and emotional each time I read your blog. I know the Lord will continue to bless you, and I will continue to offer thanks for all the blessings he has given you and continue to ask for his blessings in your behalf. Keep up the great job.
Love to you.
Carol Liptrot

Anonymous said...

Hey girl,
had a thought, if you want an out, bring the kids over and lounge by the pool... we have a huge back yard, and a inground pool. Come over, i can pick you up. The kids will have fun, and maybe you will too... Just a phone call away.

wjmom said...

My love continues to come your way, and my prayers continue to make their way to heaven. God bless you and your family!

Aundrea