Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Dr. Ellis and Dave

Today I had to go to Duke for my normal follow up blood work and to see Dr. Ellis. Since I had already written his note, but didn't have his exact mailing address, I just gave him the card on my way out. I had never met Dr. Ellis before I had my transplant. I had seen his name on my insurance papers for short term disability but I had never seen him on any Duke appointment. I started seeing him about 2 months after my transplant. Right after the transplant you see a variety of doctors every week. I feel so blessed that Dr. Ellis became my doctor. I don't normally like doctors but I really clicked with him. First of all, he is always on time (which in itself is not the norm at Duke). He is always so positive and friendly and he really takes the time to listen to all of my concerns and issues and he goes over in detail the results of my previous blood work. I have never gotten the sense that he is trying to rush me out of the room to go on to the next patient. Any time I have had the need to send him an email, he answers it promptly. I really appreciate him and the care he gives me!

Dave worked for our company for over 35 years. He was based in Atlanta and worked as a salesman and then he became a representative for the leasing part of our company. He had the southeast region which meant he traveled a lot. I really loved traveling with Dave. He would call me up and tell me he was coming to our area and he would have customer appointments set up and/or I would set some up as well. He had a natural knack for promoting our leasing plan because he used to sell the communcation material that he was trying to lease. He developed so many great relationships with our customers and they all knew he really cared about them and not just their business. He retired about 3 years ago and spends his time with the youth group at his church and works at a local cafe/grill and is loving it. I really miss him and you can tell he is hard to replace as we have never yet met the person who took his place!!

As I go through my day, I find that I am more open to seeing things to be grateful for. Today, I was thankful for safe travels to and from Duke and I found a parking space in the parking deck right near the elevator. I had a nice vacation day and found a new hairdresser. I hope you are open to the positive things in your everyday travels. They are abundant and we merely need to focus on them instead of the negative.

Make it a great day!
Warm wishes,
Annie




Sunday, April 1, 2012

Andrea, Jo Jo and Sandy

I hope you had a wonderful weekend. I shared a fun filled day with my friend Terri; we went to a wellness expo and just had fun hanging out together.

I sent a note of encouragement to my husband's cousin's daughter Andrea. She is in her 30s and lives in Canada. She has had rhumatoid arthritis since she was a little girl. Now she has a little girl who is about 7 or 8. Andrea's  arthritis is in full bloom. It is in at least 20 of her joints and she has to have help even to take a shower. Luckily, living in Canada, she does not have to worry about the expense of health care. Her parents are also caring for her and her daughter. I just wanted to let her know I had her in my thoughts and prayers. Even with my health issues, I cannot imagine what it is like to be in constant, heavy duty pain every single day. I pray for her to have relief and healing.

Joanne (Jo Jo) is an account manager in our Roanoke office. I don't see her that often but she is a huge go-getter. Her job is to develop business for the branch and for the salesman and she is great at it. She is very faithful and is not afraid to share her beliefs. She walks the talk and if I were a non-believer I would want to know more about what she believes in just based on how she behaves and treats other people. She is active and loves to be outdoors riding her bike. She and her husband Mike are big dog lovers as well. She is just an upbeat, positive person to be around.

Sandy is the wife of one of my branch managers and is so very sweet. I sent her a sympathy card on the death of her 96 year old grandmother. Even though you know your loved one is in their 90's and may not have much time left, it is still so devastating when you lose them.

I hope you find the joy and love you need this week and that you will be a light for others.

Much love,
Annie