This story is about many things...
In February of 2023 I had a lower leg amputation. As traumatic as it may sound, so many gifts and blessings have come from it.
The first thing I would say is personal learning. It has helped me with knowing who and what is important and it has been tremendous. It has refined my life in such a way that it has simplified things, making both personal and professional decisions so much simpler. Perspective is an incredible gift.
The other, is finding a community that was quite unexpected. The Glenrose hospital has and is an incredible gift that I was not expecting. The community I found and consider myself a part of has been amazing. It is truly one of my happy places. As in most communities, it is the people within that community that makes it so special. Ellen has and will continue to be my champion, she is someone I so relied on in adapting to my new life. There was never anything we could not discuss, she pushed me when I needed it and her unmeasured kindness came through when needed.
Shelley is my other person. Shelley was very patient and understanding while setting me up for my post Glenrose journey. She ignited and supported my love of swimming and exercise. She connected me with the right people who keep me moving forward on my post recovery which I have grown to understand will be a journey not a destination.
So many times we see lip service given to causes, this is not the case. I have decided that twice a year I will discuss with the folks at the Glenrose what their greatest needs are in helping patients like me. So this year my companies Alberta Business Sale Inc and Commercial Ventures will donate for the first donation money to buy 2 water wheel chairs and also a variety of equipment that will help Ellen and her colleagues in working with clients.
This will be an ongoing project for me, in these times money is always tight. This is my way of helping frontline staff do their jobs easier, but also supporting them with as much as they supported me on my journey.
For more information on how the Glenrose supports individuals on their recovery journeys, or to explore donation opportunities, please see the links below:
