Here’s to my friend Jan on the 10th anniversary of her stroke

My friend Jan has always been one of our neighborhoods’ more impressive residents. A cheerful whirling dervish, Jan worked as a school nurse, mothered two boys and greeted every weird medical question I had with a confident smile and a ready solution.

In a general phone conversation with her once, I casually mentioned that I thought baby Molly might have an ear infection.

“Want me to take a look?” she asked and I had barely completed the words “yes please,” when she knocked at my door, otoscope in hand.

Ten years ago, Jan suffered a devastating stroke and, in its wake, she struggled mightily to work her way back to the life she loved. In true Jan Blume fashion, she recently celebrated the anniversary of that challenging event with a letter to her wide circle of friends.

Here, with her gracious permission, is that amazing letter. I hope you find it as inspiring as I did:

What I have learned in the 10 years since my stroke:

I married the right man! There is nothing Greg wouldn’t do for me. Having him home since he retired two years ago has been wonderful!

Chris and John (her sons) have their own lives but are always there for me.

My sister Mary is the funniest person I ever met and brings me through dark times.

My brother Mike is so kind and a super grandfather! Kathy would be so proud.

It is really handy to have a disability plate (esp. at holidays).

My friends are AWESOME! It is possible to make great new friends in later years.

I have become a better listener.

That being a gracious receiver matters as much as being a cheerful giver.

Time goes too fast!

That life does not have to be perfect to be full and rich.

Laughter truly is the best medicine.

I really like Margaritas (on the rocks, no salt). Just sayin….

Swallowing is much better than not swallowing, but it is harder on the waistline.

10 years later I am still overwhelmed with gratitude for all I have!

God bless you and yours in 2019.