Happy today.

[michelleric]

Just posting some refreshing happy news from my world.

Today was the 1st of my delivering MS holiday bags, to people either home bound or in assisted living/nursing homes from MS. It is sponsored by the MS society and it is my 2nd year doing this.

I spoke with a woman this morning for about an hour.  She is about my age, lives in the next town over, and is going to call me back when her hubby plows the drive. We have about 2 feet right now, and the snow is still coming.  She has a service and a family dog, which I learned lots of info on that today.  I added to her bag, a couple of bones tied with ribbons for her dogs.

Anyway, I wont bore you with my other visits,but one lady stood out.  Do you ever meet someone and connect immediately?  She lives in assisted living, which is probably one of the nicest places I have seen so far. She went through the goodie holiday bag, and just was delighted with everything. (Including some chocolate cupcakes I threw in. What is a holiday without chocolate?!

We chatted for over an hour, and I am telling you it was meant to be.  She was DX with MS about 25 years ago, is in a wheelchair, and has a fantastic attitude.  She asked me lots about me. and we have pretty similar things in common.  We both refuse to go to hospitals unless it is a dire emergency. (we both had very deathly complications from hospitals). neither of us will take Cipro again.  We high fived at that point.

I could go on and on.  I have really been worried about what my future holds, and really after today, I will be ok.  I have a sense of relief.  She is basically blind in one eye from ON,(I feel that is a huge probability for me as well.) She doesn't walk, but that doesn't stop her, she buzzes around and is genuinely happy and at peace with herself.

About 5 years ago, she went to 6 funerals, including her mother.  I shared with her that I went to 9 last year including my mother as well.  Of course the tears started.

Last sentence and I am done.  She told me when all the people around her were dying, she wanted to go to.  She was mad at G-d for not taking her too.  What was the purpose of this????  She told me she found her purpose.  I waited anxiously for the answer, and it was simply to make people happy, if only for a moment.  In this nursing home, there are
"terrible old and sick people". bit if she can just give a kind word or smile, it goes a long way.

I had a fantastic day. and cant wait to visit her again.  We hugged and it really felt like we knew each other for a long time. Just beautiful.  I will be back soon, and am looking forward to some more deliveries tomorrow.\\
Michelle

[michelleric]

Audrey,

You are a wonderful writer, and I appreciate your insight on things. I guess I am bringing some support to people, I just see it as helping me the most.

Just like how this woman is growing her hair, with one inch to go, so she can donate to locks of love.  We can all do good for others, and in turn, makes us feel good ourselves.

Thanks for making me aware of this, You are a very kind woman with a big heart.

Michelle

[Audrey_M]

Michelle:

Thank you for sharing such a wonderful and inspiring story.

It is always such a gift to meet someone who is a kindred spirit, just like the great friends in life who don't see one another often, but pick up right where they left off without any of the small talk. I'm glad that you two had the joy of spending time with one another.

This dear woman that you met today has found her purpose. Michelle, you are doing the same kind of thing that she does; maybe you don't see it as your purpose yet, yet you are giving of yourself to others and bringing some cheer and happiness into their lives and letting them know that they are not alone in this world and their struggle against this MSerable disease.

It's people like you and the woman you met today that make this world a better place. Faith, hope and charity are indeed great words by which to live.

Bless you,

Audrey

[michelleric]

Thank you all. I still feel really good today as well. Such good stuff...

Alex, I am so happy your MS chapter is going to start doing the holiday bags as well.  It is a GREAT program and I am glad you inquired about it.  I admire your energy for the time you spend being an MS advocate.  You are helping so many people.  Thanks.

[Udkas]

Hi,
what a beautiful story, thanks for sharing, I know you have had your ups and downs, life is not always rosy but if you can share how you feel with someone, a laugh, even helping people gives you a sense of purpose.  What a great thing idea,

I hope you and your family have a lovely Christmas and that the New Year brings a better year for you.

[HVAC]

I contacted my local chapter to ask if we have such a program. Turns out they are starting one next year. So I guess I am on another commitee along with the advocacy and the MS PT program at UNC. It is a great idea.

[wiggles94]

Thank you for your beautiful post.  It brought tears to my eyes.  Sounds like you made a wonderful connection - a beautiful thing - for both of you.

  I hope you will share this with your new friend - not only can she add joy and happiness where she lives, but she also did it on this site - with those of us who read your post.

AND you my dear, are an inspiration to me! JOY!

Best to you!
Carol

[twopack]

You inspire me Michelle!  I'm glad you are meeting some wonderful women and able to pair these positive associations with the idea of MS.  It's clear you were blessed today.  I'm sure the gift bag recipients were equally blessed by your visits.  (I know I always feel a little lighter after visiting with you.)  Thanks for sharing with us.

Mary

[Sumanadevii]

You may very well have known her from another time....The energy may have crossed in another life.  How beautiful to have found her!  A  gift to you for giving so freely..

[supermum_ms]

Michelle, it sounds like you've had a wonderful and cathartic visit, i'm sure the goodie bags were a hit with everyone.

Well done!!!

Cheers....JJ