I medically retired in Jan 2014 due to a complex medical history, which can be best summed up as an overarching idiopathic disease.

Living with a disability of any kind can be incredibly challenging. Learning to live life differently and well with a sudden change in life’s direction, particularly  due to a disability, can be extremely difficult.

The Simple Things in Life

It can also be strangely rewarding as appreciation for the simple things in life can begin to grow. Simple things like time spent with loved ones talking and renewing relationships. Time to enjoy coffee by the ocean or in the countryside on a good day with your partner or friends. Re-discovering the joy of leisurely reading a book, or listening to music while sitting in the garden.

One of the cheeky things I really enjoy now, is listening to my neighbours all leaving for work at some ridiculously early hour while I’m lying in bed…granted I’m lying in bed in pain on most mornings but it’s still nice not to have to jump out at the sound of an alarm!

Looking Back

I’ve lived life in the fast lane for 30 years with a successful management career in financial services.

I’ve also enjoyed various change management consultancy roles for not for profit organisations.

I loved every minute of those able bodied years and am very grateful for the experiences I have had.

My career highlights include;

• Contributing to creating an award winning customer experience culture in the various Banking and Insurance departments I’ve managed.
• Leading an inspired and motivated team of people, many of whom are now lifelong friends.
• Receiving the inaugural Leader of the Year Award just before I medically retired (such a special parting gift)
• Restoring an historic church building to its former glory,
• Working as a management consultant in the Anglican Church, assisting Church Leaders to bring about exciting reformative change.

Looking Forward

My first blog post is all about  My Story  and the health events that changed  my life completely.

My journey is not over. It has really only just begun.

Each day I venture a little further along an unknown path, with my loving husband by my side as my best friend and carer.

I’m keeping my eyes on God’s purpose for my life. He has led me this far and I know He will continue to guide my life and give me the strength I need for this next chapter.

I will live a life of faith and hope, just as I always have. In many ways so much has changed but nothing has changed where my trust in God is concerned.

I am looking forward to taking time out on my good days to do a bit of writing about where this path leads me and share a little of what I learn from my experiences along the way.

Another benefit of a change of life…time to blog!

Take Care

Sam x

 

If you’re looking for genuine support, care, understanding & friendship, you are so welcome to join my closed Facebook support forum, Medical Musings with Friends . It’s a safe place to connect with others living with chronic & complex diseases, who truly understand the daily challenges. A warm welcome awaits.

I’m a regular Contributor at “The Mighty”. You can check out my published articles at My Author Page

I also write @ Blogs by Christian Women

I’m a member of  the Chronic Illness Bloggers Network and the  Grace Girls Facebook Group

Please click here to read our Privacy Policy