This has been a tough year for my family. Due to heart disease and diabetes, my husband has seen more doctors, hospitals, and specialists; experienced new medical tests and medications (that we can't pronounce); and learned more medical terminology (also unpronounceable) than we ever could have imagined. But these hardships have produced more reasons to appreciate each new day and what it holds.
As we come to the end of another year, and another opportunity to recognize the many good things in our lives, I wanted to list a few things that I am grateful for. Some are the usual, but some are things we have experienced this year that have made our lives easier. Many of these are due in part to the ADA and the increasing awareness of disability as a natural part of life.
- Thirty-five years of the ADA!
- Family and friends, whether near or far that have kept in touch.
- Family and friends who are still with us this year.
- Accessible medical offices.
- The voluntary provision of wheelchairs for temporary use.
- Accessible parking.
- Friendly and caring medical personnel who offer warm blankets in an otherwise cold and lonely room.
- The thought of having ALL the family together for turkey and dressing and all the trimmings VERY soon!
- Chocolate (that's a given).
- Faith (another given).
- Another chance to experience the crisp fall weather and the lovely falling leaves.
- The opportunity to work and network with the best people and organizations locally, regionally, and nationally, who really care about the ADA.
- The Rocky Mountain ADA Center and the ADA National Network.
Have a happy and thankful Thanksgiving!