Hello Darling Ones,

Today is my birthday! I made it to 52. Today also marks 15 months since my stroke. And, if we’re marking anniversaries, 12 months since I did the hardest thing I ever had do — ask for financial help.

It would be glorious if I could report one year later that things were absolutely splendid. That I’ve fully recovered physically, emotionally, and financially from the stroke.

That is not the case. Stroke recovery is a frustratingly long process filled with dips, valleys, and plateaus. I often complain to my physical therapist how unfair it is that the stroke damaged me an instant and recovery isn’t just as quick. She always reminds me recovery can take years and I will get better as long as I keep trying.

So, it’s a year later and I’m still doing the hard things. I had a significant set back in February, which has made the hard things harder. And this week I’ve had some vision problems which makes the hard things harder and also blurry!

But. . . I still get to do the hard things and I’m so happy to have that opportunity.

Fifty-one was my most difficult year yet. It was also the most gratifying, love-filled, joyous year. And I finally finished the Catghan that I started before my stroke!

The continued support from my family, friends, and community brings me to tears every time I think of it.

You all give me the strength to do hard things and I am honored.

Love,
Jodi