Finally back on my feet again, so here is my last entry in this little blog of mine ;)

Well, my friends, GREAT NEWS! I just received a job offer and I start on Monday. I am deliriously happy :)

Karmic balance has been restored: As a person with a disability, I will be working as Communications Director for a charitable organization for people with disabilities. Now THAT is poetic justice at its finest.

When I started this blog six months ago, I was alone, afraid and in pain, both physical and emotional. Rheumatoid Arthritis had robbed me of the use of my hands, I was in constant pain, and my future looked dismal. My Rheumatologist said I may never be able to continue my career as a writer. So, I did two things: First, I started this anonymous blog because I had to reach out, I was hurting. And help came. People wrote to me, and offered their emotional support, for which I will be forever grateful. In turn, I tried to fill my blog with resources for people who were in the same boat, unemployed, broke and scared. I tried to pay it forward. I hope I helped someone out there. There were many, many times that I couldn't afford food on EI, my medications are very expensive. The Vancouver Food Bank helped me to survive. Thank you all!

Meanwhile, The Mary Pack Arthritis Centre in Vancouver took extra special care of me. My heartfelt thanks to the physiotherapists, especially Cindy who was a godsend, and my occupational therapist. They were there for me when I needed them and helped me to cope. The Centre also referred me to the Neil Squire Society for people with disabilities. Through them, I received training on Dragon Naturally Speaking voice recognition software, which allowed me to keep writing without my hands, and made a career future possible for me. How can I say thank you? The words are inadequate. Through them, I found the job that I start next week. They gave me my life back. Mike and Joe, God bless you!

The second thing I did was start writing a novel. It was pure rebellion, me thumbing my nose at this disease. I would write for 30-40 minutes, then had to stop and ice my hands, then I’d go right back to it. Every word I typed hurt, but I kept going. I am now a few months away from finished. When I told my doctor what I was doing, she couldn't believe it! But she applauded my courage and tenacity. Lesson lived: Never give up without a fight. The dedication in my novel begins with the sentence, “I wrote this novel because I was told I couldn't. Therefore, I would like to thank those few who believed I could.”

It took 5 months for the RA medications to start working, and the pain in my hands finally subsided. They still hurt a bit, but I have Dragon, and my splints, and I am able to endure. Through it all, my best friend, who lives in Calgary, was cheering me on, sending love and support by phone and email, and even sent me food when I had none. She was my angel and I love her immeasurably. May all your generosity come back you x 10!

I also have to mention that, in my pain and loneliness, I found an Owl Cam site on Ustream, Molly and McGee. There I met a group of wonderful, caring people who are as nutty about wildlife as I am. I made many friends and lasting friendships. They helped me through the worst of it. I love you all dearly and your friendship and laughter buoyed me up when I felt as though I was sinking. Thank you, thank you!!!!

To all of you readers, especially Kate, who has been following my blog since day one, God bless you all. You were a voice in the dark that helped me through. Please stay in touch with me at born2bwild_38@hotmail.com. If you ever need a friend, I am there for you.

I once said that I hoped this blog would be a story of triumph. I believe it has. My hope is that you all take heart and overcome your challenges with courage, faith and conviction. All things are possible.

And yes, at long last, I HAVE BREAD TODAY!!!!

My heartfelt gratitude for all your kindness and support. I wish you Love, Peace and Happiness. Adieu my friends.