[Kenna]

Today was a challenge but I am so thankful I was able to beat "the waiting list" to get into the medical facility I did today...and that I held out and resisted giving up hope about getting into this facility......it was truly a life changing day and they treated me with a great deal of respect (which I'm not used to with several of my experiences with NC doctors.)...it felt so good when I left there to feel so positive, lifted up, encouraged, and hopeful. I'm still in a lot of pain, but my spirit feels like a weight lifted. ...When I learned they had an opening, I was incredibly thankful because it wasn't long ago that they weren't going to take new patients until next spring. ....now, just waiting for followup and more referrals. I can do this. My body may be weak but my mind is determined and strong.

And....I am even more thankful to have met a deeply genuine, soft spoken but highly articulate and eloquent individual that (through their supportive acknowledgement of my medical policy career skills, my "Voice" and passion for advocacy work) encouraged me that my work and Voice for my community and other disabled individuals does count and is still needed. I thought I had lost my passion.

After a long day (I'm not usually thankful for this because I hate taking pills) but I'm thankful for pain meds that will help me rest tonight....as my nurse said today..." stay ahead of the pain".