II Corinthians 12:9-10

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities... for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
II Corinthians 12:9-10

Sunday, January 27, 2013

The Other Side

It's great to be on the other side. Every time I receive an email from potential surgery candidates, a flood of memories remind me of where I was three years ago.

The nerves of not knowing what to expect. The pain that comes with surgery. The frustration of not being able to do things that you should be able to do. The bonding moments with family. The excitement of seeing progress and getting restrictions lifted from the doctor. So many feelings.

Now as I hear from others through my blog and video, I get the opportunity to share my experiences to do what I can to help others make this surgery just a little bit easier.

This summer someone contacted me after seeing my video. Her daughter was having surgery in June. So we met up for lunch and had a great time talking.



Paris is on the other side now, and soon after her surgery, she even came to my fundraising concert for the Ronald McDonald House Charities! We still keep in contact today.

Recently, I got an email from someone whose daughter is having surgery tomorrow morning. I also found out that even though they are from a different state, she is having surgery at the Shriners Children's Hospital ten minutes away from my college! So tonight I had the opportunity of meeting up with them and sharing experiences.



Best wishes to Laura and her family this week! It's definitey not easy, but it will be worth it. You are in good hands. Pretty soon you will be on the other side!

4 comments:

  1. Katie, I made it through the surgery yesterday. I am in my room trying to rest. I was able eat some breakfast then the nurses helped me stand up and move to a wheelchair. I'm back in bed now. I am wearing the slippers and using the pillow you brought me. Thank you for coming to see me before my surgery. It helps to know you did all this before me.

    Your new friend,
    Laura K.

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  2. Hi, Katie. I am Laura's grandfather and wanted to let you know how much she enjoyed and talks about your visit. She enjoyed your blog but particularly enjoyed your visit and supporting words. We were sorry we did not get to meet you but we did not want to infringe upon your time with Laura. You have a special gift of sharing and caring. I hope you know how much that means to all of us.

    Fondly,
    Vernon and Dianne Britton

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  3. I'm so glad I was able to help in any small way possible! It's a tough surgery, that's for sure. You have a great, supportive family, and that makes everything seem better! :) Still praying for a fast recovery!

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  4. Hey Katie, I am a twelve year old and I have scoliosis. I do not know if I will need surgery yet but well I hope I don't!!!! hahaa It is kind of hard but it has taught me about the values in life. I wear a brace 20 hours a day (for the past four years and I will probably have to wear it about 4 more). Thankyou for inspiring me and making me less scared for my future in dealing with scoliosis. :)-Olivia

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