My story begins in 1950.......
The little chubby one??? Yep, that's me with my gloriously beautiful sister, Donna Rae.
The very best grandparents any child could wish to have........with Donna and me.
This photo was taken on Easter Sunday, 1952. The following spring we both got polio.......the dreaded disease of the era,...sadly, just before the polio vaccine. My sister got up one morning and crawled to the bathroom......when my mom asked her "what's wrong honey??"......she answered that she couldn't walk. And then........me. My poor parents.....two very sick children. I cannot even begin to imagine how frightened and worried they were. My sister had a much worse type of polio than I did and passed away, on Easter Sunday, shortly after becoming sick. She prayed with me every night though, from her iron lung, until she couldn't speak any longer. What a precious girl. I still miss her. They told my parents I would never be able to walk again......
If you look at my shoe you can see the little bracket used to attach my brace. Yeah, you just don't tell a little girl on the go that she's not going to be able to walk, so I defied the odds and, by golly, I learned to walk.........without braces or crutches. My Mum did therapy every single day for me at home. The March Of Dimes was VERY instrumental in my progress. I am soooo very grateful. A therapist came to our house several times a week to help my Mum learn the therapies.
I had five or six surgeries to help make is possible to walk over the next 16 years.
Well, walking with 95% muscle loss can have its drawbacks.........I had overtaxed my muscles for years and by the time I was about 20 living with pain became my life. Now, let me tell you, this is just no darn fun. On a scale of 1-10, mine is about a 9 every single day. The doctor diagnosed me with Post-Polio Syndrome (symtoms: pain and fatigue). You may even know someone with this disease. Ok, I'm tough.....I'm going to trudge along and make the most of my life...........
Until............
May 25th 2003...........SIX whole years ago today.Yep, that would be my left femur. Ugly, isn't it? Can you say OUCH???? Whew....let me tell 'ya......that REALLY hurt. I was in my garage and was carrying a picture my husband had brought with him from Hawaii. I was going to ask him if it was OK if I sold it at the garage sale. I tripped and while I was falling I was trying not to break his picture. Boy, I sure wish I could replay that day.
Yeah, two weeks in the hospital.........lots and lots of blood transfusions..........and LOTS of screws. Fifteen to be exact................mmmmmmmmmmmmm..........yeah, lots of PAIN!
Ok Spencer, you can go home..........you cannot even TOUCH your foot to the floor for four months. WHAT? (Oh, and by the way, for two weeks you can give yourself this little shot in your tummy). Then after four months you can touch it to the floor to rest it, but you can't put any weight on it for TWO more months..........Six months so far, right? After a couple more months I could begin therapy to begin to straighten my leg and after a couple more I could learn to walk all over again. Now, let me tell ya.........that just stinks! For months my Mum drove to my house every single day to take care of me. I couldn't do ANYTHING by myself. She cooked. She cleaned. She did my hubby's ironing. I would have had to go to a nursing home had it not been for her. Oh, how I loved my Mum.
So, nearly a year later I finally walked again...........Boy that hurt. It wasn't pretty.
Yeah, well, the party still isn't over.
Because of the polio I have crummy bones. Every step I took made those lovely little screws make the hole in my bone bigger........Yep........OUCH!
Another visit to the hospital..........ten days, more blood transfusions.........do you know that your femur is stronger than concrete and it plays a HUGE part in your blood supply???
They did bone grafting and put in more screws. Oh, and I got to give myself shots in the tummy AGAIN.........
I learned to walk again.
A year later..........yep, the screws were moving around in there again. Boy, did that hurt. The doctor thought it would be a good idea to just remove all my pricey metal.........dang it....I spent a lot of money on that stuff. So, ten more days in the hospital. More blood transfusions. Two weeks of shots in my tummy. Physical therapy. Learned to walk again........you get the idea..............oh, and by the way.... DO NOT FALL! You still have a huge hole in your bone where the bone grafting didn't "take".......your bone isn't stable.
Oh, and now you get to limp which realllllllllllly makes the 'ol hip hurt and I'm just not as young as I once was. Oh, those were the days! So now it's Post-Polio syndrome........a yukky femur and what the heck, for good measure, let's throw in fibromyalgia AND Mixed Connective Tissue Disease....(an autoimmune disorder).
Now, I'm really not telling you all this so you can feel sorry for me. I have a wonderful life, an awesome husband, the best daughter ever and a grandson I adore. I HAVE so much and I'm soooooo grateful. I was stuck in a wheelchair through so much of this and I can at least walk now. Nope, it's not a pretty walk, but I SO appreciate being able to stand up at the sink to do dishes and being able to get stuff off the shelf. I don't take anything for granted. I thank God all day every day for my blessings. Trust me.........I am SOOOOO BLESSED.
Sooooooooooo..........I believe with all my heart that God said......Ok honey, walking's going to be tough on you, so let me give you an extra measure of creativity. I am NOT saying this to brag at all...........please don't misunderstand, but I just know how to do things. I know how to put things together. It's not me, I take NONE of the credit..........Sweet Jesus made a way for me to have pleasure in a different way than other gals. Isn't God AMAZING??? I give Him alllll of the credit for everything I accomplish. God will make a way. He just does.
Ahhhhhhhhhh gosh..............you hung in clear to the end of this story???
Well, God bless 'ya!
I have met so many wonderful gals through the internet and have been blessed beyond measure. I appreciate every single one of you.
Maybe you have a story to tell too........
Wishing you a wonderful week......
Hugs and Kisses,
Spencer
Spencer, You have had trials and tribulations that have tested you, but you are obviously putting your life in the hands of a higher power. I'm so glad that you have an outlook on life that lets you appreciate even the small things. Your sharing of your story might serve to let others know that we each have our own story and we are not alone. I admire your outlook because that is just one of the things that keeps me coming back to visit you. :-) Sue
ReplyDeleteMy Dear Friend, Bless Your Heart! I am so very sorry to hear of your disease so early in life. My heart broke to read your story with the loss of your beautiful sister.
ReplyDeleteYour struggles have been great yet you are so positive and thankful!! This speaks volumes of your character and your faith!!
I am so blessed to know you and I want to thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration and a blessing, dear Spencer!
xoxoxoxo,
Rhonda
Great post Spencer. I appreciate what bone pain is now since having chemo and it affects the bones. Mine was my hips. And being able to stand and do your own things...I know. I was so sad to hear that your sister passed. I knew a few people growning up that had polio and it is an awful disease. So glad you are up and doing!! God is good. Have a wonderful Memorial Day!
ReplyDeleteWow! Not sure where to begin! I guess Good for YOU! I believe God gives us what we can handle and you have done so well!!! We have to hang in there and trudge through, it's our lot. Funny how when I read about you it sounds like so much and yet when it happens to you you just dig in and do it! I always do, my sweet cousin and her family are going through their baby being treated for stage 4 cancer. I really cannot see how they are getting through. But Baby Chase is handling this like a champ and my sweet cousin is digging in and carrying her young family through this. She lost her mother 2 years ago to brain cancer! She's my hero! And you go right up there with her!
ReplyDeleteHugs and prayers! Lisa
I admire your strength and determination Spencer. With all you have been through, it would certainly be understandable if you had a defeated attitude.
ReplyDeleteI am also sorry for the loss of your sister. That must have been so hard for you. Polio was a terrible disease. Before I quit working in 2007, I was a legal secretary for one of the prosecuting attorneys in our local State Attorney's office. In 1953, at the age of 6, she contracted polio and was confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Sadly, she passed away 5 months ago from respiratory problems as a result of the polio. She was an amazing, strong woman too and my life was enriched from knowing and working for her.
Thank you for sharing your inspirational story.
The work of the Master-Healer, Jesus! Sometimes our complete "recovery" comes when we walk through the gate...
ReplyDeleteThis was a special Post, SpencieGirl! :) I can't imagine losing my sisters...long ago or now...I'd be crushed. Surviving this loss on top of Polio has placed you in the saint category.
Blessings to you! I believe your Momma has extra jewels in her crown for experiencing so much as well.
xoRebecca
Dear Spencer, I feel very honored that you shared your story with us. I think it is how we respond to "the slings and arrows" of life that tell most about us! Sounds to me like you're a very brave and devoted woman. You inspire love all around you thru God's wonderful grace! I was sorry to read about the loss of your sister and I know you lost your mother...but you are an inspiration to us all both creatively and spiritually! God Bless! Lauralu :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a story !
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine what it's like, to go through that. So, sorry for the loss of your sister.
Your mother must have wondered why, but with a big heart and love pushed through.
God, is so wonderful.
Ciao
Dear Spencer,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your personal story, you are such an amazing woman. Where many would fall and crumble in despair, your strength and courage is such an inspiration too me. I was very sad too hear of the loss of your precious sister, your Mother must also have had such strength and courage too.
Many prayers and hugs,
Lots of Love,
Kay xxxx
Wow your story is amazing. I cant believe that one person can go through so much. You are proof that one person can be a hero by never giving up on themselves. Life can be ugly but if you fall and get up and walk then you laugh in lifes face.
ReplyDeleteI have a bad knee too. They have told me I am going to have really bad bones when Im older. Its funny because I feel as though my bones in my right leg are bad now. My knee is always popping out of place and sometimes it takes me forever to move it back into place. It hurts when its cold and sometimes for no reason at all.
I wish you luck. Keep a postive outlook and pray because its the most powerful medicine.
much luv
Liz
p.s. I love the music on your blog. I always say I wish I could have lived in the 40's and 50's just for the music alone. :)
Trouble posting comment this morning...you are so beautiful. What a story! Anita
ReplyDeleteWhat a touching story! Love your blog!
ReplyDeleteI had a special friend that had polio. She also had a terrible time walking. Met her in 2cd grade and were friends all through school. She was in my wedding. She passed away several years ago from a seizure. I'll always remember her not because of her illness but because of her great attitude.
I was so moved by your story this morning only to find I couldn't leave a message! Anita
ReplyDeleteWow what a story Spencer!...very inspiring. You are a very strong and inspirational woman who never gives up! Thanks for visiting my blog.
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer,
ReplyDeleteWhat a story to tell! You have come through so much. You are a strong person and it shows. And your Mum must have been very strong to go through all of this too. That is so special how she took care of you.
I was born crippled and my sweet Mama did the same kind of therapy each day on me and I wore those little braces on my shoes. I never knew it because I was too young to remember now but she has told me all about it. And then I too lost a sibling, my brother, but it was a car accident and died suddenly. Going through these things makes us stronger or breaks us down. I am glad that God is there to pick us up when we need it. :) Thank you for sharing your story. :)
Hugs & blessings,
Katherine
Wow! That's quite a story. I too lost my only sister when she was just twenty-eight. I guess I can count myself lucky that I had her for that long. I also was the baby and she was my only sibling.There's not a day that goes by that I don't miss her terribly. I broke my ankle two years ago and I have a plate and alot of screws too. I have often wondered if they are moving around in there, especially when the pain gets bad, I am also greatful like you are for every day and all my many blessings. We actually have quite a bit in common. I too love Jesus and knowing that my sister is with Him in heaven gives me considerable comfort. Thanks for sharing your story. I love all the pictures you shared. It's so wonderful to know that we are only seperated from our loved ones temporarily. Thanks so much for visiting my blog.
ReplyDeleteJust like it was yesterday I remember taking home a paper for my mother to sign (I didn't have a clue what it was for) to bring back to my teacher. I was young, very young and recall my class being led in a little line into the school auditorium where each and every one of us received a polio shot.
ReplyDeleteNowadays, you wouldn't be able to do that. We have so many rules about medicine and children and school that the bureaucrats would tie up the process for years.
You have been through so, so much, kiddo and I certainly do empathize with you. I know pain by its first name, too, and pray every morning that I will be able to continue to live alone and on my own.
I will end this note in a positive vein...you sure were a cute little girl. My, oh, my, absolutely adorable☺
What a deeply moving story. Your courage and tenacity is nothing short of awe-inspiring! Thank you for sharing with us about your struggles and triumphs, I hope dearly that your life from here on out will be filled with joy, serenity and good health.
ReplyDeleteLove & blessings,
♥ Jessica
wow, what an amazing story. So many times in your life when I'm sure others would have given up. God has truly given you an extra measure of faithfulness and grace.
ReplyDeleteOh Spencer, you are a very strong determined woman and I admire you so much. Guess what! We were born on the same year. And your baby pictures are soooooo cute! So sorry about your sister, I can only imagine how much you and your parents miss her. I have cousins and a nephew who also have polio and it is a dreadful disease. I am sorry for everything you have endured but on the bright side, I think it made you a stronger woman.Thanks for sharing your story, it's very inspiring...Christine
ReplyDeleteHello Spencer; What a amazing life story, and all that you and your family been through, You still praise God..... I just love it, reading your post makes my problems seem so very small, but I am blessed as well, by God and by reading your insperational story...
ReplyDeleteHugs;
Alaura
Spencer, I first want to thank you for sharing this story. I know you don't want me to be, but I am so sorry that you've had to suffer so much. On the other hand, I am so glad that you have God in your life and that you've been able to think about the things for which you are grateful. I know that all of your suffering made you the person you are today...full of inner strength and love for God. The pictures of you as a child, and you and your sister are just so precious, and what a tragedy that this horrible disease took her life, and how horrible for you, as a child, to know that you had the same disease that had taken the life of your beloved sister. I'm sorry to be writing a book in the comment section of your blog, but I am just overcome with the emotions of having reading this post. I'm saying a prayer for you now. laurie
ReplyDeleteThank you for your post. I am awed and inspired! Blessings, Cindy
ReplyDeleteDearest Spencer,
ReplyDeleteYour life story brought tears to my eyes, and so much admiration for the woman you are.
You are an inspiration and a reminder that inner strength, perseverance, and love of life can get us through the toughest moments of our lives. I am sorry for the losses in your life. Remain strong and continue to inspire.
Hugs galore!
Sandra
First of all bless you for being so honest and transparent you certainly have had trials in you life. My sister was also a polio victim and has undergone over 300 surgeries on her leg. She is able to walk but falls easily and is in constant pain. She never complains and manages to make a living grooming dogs from her shop in her garage. Its people like you and my sister who make this world so wonderful. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment it is an honor to have you as a new blog friend. Nancy
ReplyDeleteWow, you have had your share of trials! Your sister was so beatiful as are you!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!
God bless!
Jen
Hi Spencer!
ReplyDeleteThat was some story. I feel so badly that you've gone through so much, and how horribly sad about your beautiful sister. I'm so sorry.
I wanted to pop by and thank you for visiting my new blog, and to wish you luck on my giveaway.
Smiles, Paulette :o)
Hi Spencer, It is a real testament to your Mom and grandparents that you have such a positive, thankful attitude today after enduring so much. God bless you for sharing your story and reminding us to be grateful for all our blessings.
ReplyDeleteSpencer...You most defiantly look at the glass half full....what a story....and you are still smiling.....you are Gods angel...
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Mo ;-)
I have so enjoyed stopping by, today!!! What an inspiration for you to go through so much and still be grateful...!! Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteIsabel
Dear Spencer,
ReplyDeleteyour story touched me, I'm so glad that you stopped by my blog beacause now I find your.
You've gone through so much and I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your sister.
It is very hard to lose someone you love. I know what it means because in the last six years I lost my father, my grandmother and my uncle who was like a second father to me. My father was only forty years old.
You're an example for me because you're still smiling.
Thank you for sharing this story with all of us.
God bless you my dear,
Federica.
I popped over to say thank you for visiting and commenting on my blog and am now blown away by how much you have had to cope with and how well you dealt with it all. It's a hard, hard story but a very brave one too! Thank you. Lucy x
ReplyDeleteDear Spencer...thank you so much for sharing your great story with us all...You so inspire me and Yes God hears your name my friend...May you have a blessed and safe day my friend...hugs and smiles Gl♥ria
ReplyDeleteI loved reading "your story". I am so sorry about losing your sister. I can't imagine that loss. You have overcome so much... true inspiration and thank you for sharing! Many blessing to you,
ReplyDeletehugs,
LuLu
BLESS YOUR HEART GIRL!!! I can not even imagine what you have withstood, but boy do you look for the silver lining in your clouds, what an inspiration, I will think about you next time when I am tempted to whine about some stupid thing!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your story, it made a big impact on me!
Spencer, you are an inspiration. I could feel sorry for myself for a good many things, and feel like I'm the only one... But shame on me! Thank you for sharing your story, reminding me I'm not alone, and to count my many blessings, and to thank God for them all! God bless you!
ReplyDeleteWow, Spencer, what a story. Thank you so much for sharing it with us and I am so sorry about your sister. I am sure you still miss her daily. I have enjoyed getting to "know" you here and thanks for stopping by my blog too! :)
ReplyDeleteCarrie
Darlin', Bless your heart!!
ReplyDeleteMy Aunt Shirley had polio as a child and learned to walk again. I don't remember it giving her much trouble later in life. I too lost my sister in childhood. She was 6 and I was 7 and there was no cure for childhood leukemia in the late 60's. We were always dressed up cute with our hair in curls just like your pictures. I know she will be waiting to greet me when I get to Heaven!!
Thank you for entering my blog giveaway (Good Luck). I will be back to visit your blog again!
Blessings~LillySue
Spencer, God bless you, what a story. I can tell you are a remarkable person! Thank you for visiting my Daybook today. It was nice to meet you and I'll be back!
ReplyDeleteP.S. I love your name, my sweet little grandson is named Spencer.
Thanks for sharing your story..I loved seeing the pictures of you and your family...My grandfather had polio and he would always talk about how hard it was growing up with the disease..I'm sorry you had to endure so much pain at a young age.... Loosing your sister had to be devistating for you....You truly are a remarkable women...You've had to overcome alot...
ReplyDeleteStephenie
Hello Spencer, Thank You for visiting my blog, has brought me to yours....charming by the way! Your mom was beautiful, I love the photo you have posted of her. I'm sure she will always be missed...Mom's are our biggest cheer leaders. I love your spunk! After reading your story and all the loss you've encountered and living with the after effects of polio, You girlfriend are a "Professional Survivor"! We were born the same year too! I have had 2 knees and 1 hip replaced at a young age, like yourself I've learned to make the best of it! I walk everyday about 2-3 miles for exercise...My moto is "Just keep movin". Have decided to "Follow" your blog, Please stop in again, loved visiting with you, xoxo~Kathy @ Sweet Up-North Mornings
ReplyDeleteSpencer, Thanks for sharing your story. I just found it today...well I'm a little bit slow sometimes. Wow, what a story. I remember the polio scare, I was fortunate. When we were kids, we had to take those sugar cubs. You are a real trouper girlfriend! We are in our last year of our 50's and let me tell you....I'm not as good as I used to be. I helped my son and his family move Thursday and Friday, and on Saturday I could hardly get around. What's with this old age stuff? Our mom's were alot alike, mine always came to my rescue too, and I miss her dearly. I can only hope to be as good a mom to my kids as she was to me. One of these days I'll tell my story, but I'm not ready yet. Hugs, Mumzie :) PS: I really have enjoyed your music while reading.
ReplyDeleteWow. That's quite a lot that you have been through my dear. I can't even imagine. I also believe that God gives us only what he knows we can handle. Overwhelming as it is. Sometimes it seems like more credit than we deserve.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your kind words to me Spencer. This last year has been tough on us, me especially, body & soul. My sweetie Sean and I have been together for just over 12 years. No kids. Didn't think we could until last August when I was VERY unexpectedly pregnant. Whoa. We were floored, but thrilled! Sadly, I lost that pregnancy early on, it was crushing. Doctor said it was a sad thing, but a good sign and to keep trying, so we did. No fertility stuff, just the old fashion way... In May I became pregnant again. This time, my doctor found that my pregnancy was growing in the wrong spot, the embryos (twins) had implanted within the muscle tissue of my uterus and were growing rapidly. My uterus was already being stretched dangerously and was set to rupture. This is called a Corneal Pregnancy, and it usually ends badly, or in my doctors words "catastrophic". He tells me it's very, very rare. I'd never heard of a Corneal Pregnancy... So my first OB appointment turned into a 3 hour emergency surgery, 4 days in the hosp, and 6 weeks off from work. Baby hopes dashed again...big sigh...
I can't be too sad about this (although I do have my moments) because I'm ALIVE!! I didn't understand until much later how lucky I was. God knows his plans for me, and I'm on His schedule, not mine. If it's His will, it'll happen.
So in the meantime, I craft!! Lemonade from lemons, right?
Thanks for sharing your story Spencer, and thank you for letting me share mine. Let's chat again soon! I'll definitly be checking back often to see what's new at Bellamere Cottage! Thanks again for your inspiration, I'll post pictures of the little heart soon!
oxo~Lisa
Spencer, you just left a comment on my "A glimpse into the heart of me" at the Polka Dot Barn and didn't leave your email address.....and after reading your comments i simply had to talk to you! So, I tried your blog and it's not up, so I thought, "Darn!", i guess i'll just say a prayer for her and go on. No!! Wait!! I'll google her! And there you were with different posts sittin' right there on google:) That's how i found you and then i found this all about me on the side bar and just read all about you.
ReplyDeleteI think when you email me, hoping that you will, i'll just list my diseases and go from there! LOL
I have a few things to say about your story and your comments, they're all good:), so if you'd like to enter into dialog with me, my email is polkadotbarn@gmail.com
Blessings, Jan
Spencer, I'm so glad I clicked over here to read this. I am so inspired by your attitude even though you have suffered and are suffering. What a beautiful person you are, and how fortunate I am that I found you in this big internet world. laurie
ReplyDeleteJust looking at your blog and got curious to read your life story. WOW! So sorry about your sister..oh my gosh..cant imagine loosing my sister. I am a couple years older than you and I do remember I think first getting a shot for polio then the sugar cubes. I remember being so relieved to not have to get a shot. I hated shots. But I shouldnt have felt that way..considering what you went through. Your poor mother loosing your sister then you having polio also. Im sorry you have lost your mom. I lost both my mom and dad 23 yrs ago..a month apart. I thought I was in some other world.Loosing your parents is the most dreadful thing. Ive since lost my brother and my precious dog Hank. Well enough of me...you have inspired me this morn. Blessing to you Sally
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer! Boy, you have been through a LOT of stuff since you were in the little girl in the pictures! God bless you! The things we face down here while God is working on us, huh!
ReplyDeleteI have Fibromyalgia and arthritis as well as a couple of other things thrownin, so I know about the exhaustion and that pain.
It's wonderful that you can still praise God through whom all blessings flow! God for you, Sister!
Hello Spencer,
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspirational story~ You have really been through a lot and you still have an ability to inspire so many others. I am so sorry about the loss of your sister. Thank-you for sharing your story, I love your blog! Cindy
Hi Spencer! Thanks for visiting my blog today and leaving a comment. I love getting to meet other bloggers. Wow, your life story is very inspirational. I love your attitude and spirit. I've had my share of problems too....breast cancer and I also broke my tibia and fibula bones in my right leg right above my ankle. I have a plate and 7 screws on one side and 2 pins on the other side. But...Praise God!, I'm back to playing tennis and riding my bike and so many other things. God is good, all the time!
ReplyDeleteHugs!
Kat
Hi Spencer
ReplyDeleteMy first visit to your blog so I wanted to read your story ...I'm glad I did because as an RN I can really understand all that you've been through. I applaud your determination to make the best of a life that had a great deal of pain and disability. You are inspirational and talented and I'm sure many have been counting their blessings since reading about all that you've been through in life. May God bless you and bring you continued healing.
{{{Hugs}}} Pat
Thank you for sharing your amazing life with us. You have probably helped countless women from your honesty in blogging and being eager to share another of God's miracles. Peace, Mollye
ReplyDeleteHello again dear Spencer.
ReplyDeleteWow what a day. First I come over because of our beautiful Mrs. Magpie, then my shoe award, then the counter top, and now this???
I know all about Polio. My very dear Aunty Paulette who lives in Windsor, Ont. across the Detroit River, lived in a home most of her life. She was 12 when she had polio. In those days they told my grandmother that she should be placed. She also had epilepsy. She was the youngest sister of 6. She was one of my favourite Aunties. She was a trouper, just like you. She fell when she was 65, broke her hip, and the nasty doctor literally butchered her up. She was wheel chair bound after 4 operations. He removed her hip and said "oh well she's nearly 70 now"... unreal.
She passed away last year. I miss her soooooo much. She is always in my prayers (even though she was always praying for us!).
I'm so glad to meet you Spencer.
I would love to feature you on my "featured site of the week" on Monday. I usually take your header pic and place it on my main blog. I will let u know if I have a problem.
I'm going back to snoop now.
Sending hugs right back at ya.
Love Claudie
xoxoxox
Wow what a story! I think living in pain must be so very difficult. I do have pain , but mine is minimal. When I had a year of bad pain I really struggled to not be depressed. I can't imagine having to deal with all you are dealing with!! But I am so glad that God gives grace and mercy to meet our deepest needs. His presence is sustaining. I am also glad that you have been blessed with a good husband-- This must have been so hard on him as well.
ReplyDeleteDearest Spencer.......I feel I know you well...Your blog is so uplifting and I love that you give God all the glory! You have blessed me with all you have shared....Isn't it amazing to see just what God does through our brokeness...He just shines! I was born in 1950, too. Twenty years ago, I was striken with Multiple Sclerosis...Many things changed in my life...Today, after many episodes with MS...I still praise Him..God is so good and he has given me so many "silver linings". Thank you for your loving and sincere testimony to God's faithfulness!
ReplyDeleteBlessings to you!
grammycarolynn (flickr)
Spencer, what a inspirational story of strength.
ReplyDeleteYour story has helped me so much....
I had a horrible fall that left my right ankle with teared ligaments and tendons around the entire area. I spent 6 months in a wheel chair.
It can become overwhelming and disappointing when age gets in the way of healing completely.
I'm grateful to be able to walk again, even with it's limitations.
We've just got to keep making lemonade out of those pesky lemons life throws us.
Sweet wishes,
Sara
Oh my word! Girl, you are made of steel...and I don't mean that metal in your leg...I mean your spirit and gumption! What bravery you display and with a sense of humor, too. I'm going to "follow" you because I could used some of your determination and courage at times.
ReplyDeletexoxoxo,
Deborah in NC
Thank you for sharing your story. My prayers are with you tomorrow to remember your sister. Your story is truly beautiful. May life be kind to you.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you Spencer for all that you have been through and continue to go through. Going to check out some more of your blog now.
ReplyDeleteDebbie
Bless your heart! You are an amazing woman! Sounds like you take after your mum! God Bless, Lisa
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer! You are an AMAZING inspiration!!!!!! It sure is a blessing to know that you knew Jesus through all of your trials! Can't imagine not knowing Him when going through such difficult times!
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you and keep you!!
Carolyn ~Cottage Sunshine
What a beautiful testimony Spencer! It just gave me chills....your life is an amazing story of grace and grit and above all FAITH!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad I read it today.....
Lou Cinda :)
What inspiration your story gives! You are so cheerful and upbeat with all you've been through! I thought I've had a lot of pain with bursitis in my hips for over a year, but nothing like what you have gone through!
ReplyDeleteSo sad about your sweet sister. My sister is now battling lung cancer (in another state, and I can't be with her :-(
Thanks for sharing your story with us. It's bittersweet, but Jesus shines through you!
Hugs!
Katherine
Spencer,
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspiration you are! Polio isn't a stranger to our family either. My nephew, at the age of 2 years, contracted polio. At such a tender age he was in Warm Springs, GA for many months...how sad it was to visit the little fellow and then have to leave him there when he wanted to go home with us. I was six years older. When he came home his mother excercised his legs and his braces and crutches were so little. Never was his zest for life diminished. He broadcasted all sports events, graduated college with a business degree, had a 40 year banking career, coached baseball and football...oh yes, he was the National Polio Poster Child in '54 or '55 I think it was.
Twenty years ago, he had cancer and fought it valiantly until Aug. 2nd, 2010. A Memorial Service was held for Charles and a sanctuary full of family , friends, classmates testified to a life lived to the fullest....
Thanks for listening...Betty @ Country Charm
WOW Spencer such an amazing story and testimony you have.And the loss of your precious older sister..sniff.sniff..that broke my heart.Im so glad you found my blog so I could find you too! ;) I live in Kent,WA a suburb of Seattle..where do you reside in the pacific NW? Hugs,Rachel
ReplyDeleteAnd what a story it is! You are amazing for having the courage to start walking again! I can' timagine the discipline & the physical therepy you have endured..yet you get up...that is what I got out of this the most...every tim eyou were knocked down...you got up! Bless you & your strength, thank you for sharing your story & being inspirational! you are a story of courage & strength!
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspiring and incredible story. My mother is facing many challenges just now and I am going to direct her here to read your story. You have the kind of "spunk" that I admire so very much. God bless...
ReplyDeleteDearest Spencer,
ReplyDeleteYour testimony of God's faithfulness in your life has touched me deeply. Thank you for blessing my day!
Lovingly,
Carolynn
Bend, Oregon
Thank you for sharing your story.
ReplyDeleteWow, you are such a strong woman!
I wish you all the best.
Love, from Holland;
Oh Spencer, I have read your blog for quite a while, but this is the first time that I read your story. Wow. I do take so much for granted! Your story is told so beautifully. I am sorry for the loss of your sister and your full use of your legs. It is true that when GOD closes a door he opens a window. Your story is proof! :} GOD's blessings on you for a beautiful and shiny New Year!
ReplyDeleteShelley
You are such an inspiration to all of us. I am so glad I read your story and all the comments. You are such an example to me, you've been able to endure pain and tremendous loss, but still see beauty in life and you give glory to God! I am in awe and so encouraged by you and your readers and friends. Thank you for your blog,
ReplyDeleteit means so much!
Linda
Spencer, your blog is the most comfy and welcoming blog I think I have ever stumbled upon. Thank you so much for blogging and allowing the lucky ones of us to find you! I just became your most recent follower...
ReplyDeleteHugs from snowy New Hampshire,
Beth
Oh Spencer I am "So Sorry" for the pain your beautiful family has encountered. Our family, two of my first cousins have lived their lives with the aftermath of having Polio as a child, and we lost quite a few to it. All these beautiful children(My Cousins and your sister) are playing now in heaven where they are running carefree in the most BEAUTIFUL of gardens...It is a horrible disease. I will be praying for you daily... I am your newest FOLLOWER... I hope you will FOLLOW ME TOO...
ReplyDeleteLove&Hugs,
Donna
Spencer
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog. You were borm close to one of my sisters, Just as cute also LOL
After reading your story no wonder you need that walker and girl keep using it. I sure hope the pain is not as bad for you anymore.(drugs are good sometimes)
I love your music on your blog I never knew how toadd it to my blog. Right now that old song Let The Little Dance is playing, us jitter bug LOl
Us keep in touch
Your new friend Janice
Spencer, thanks for sharing your heartwrenching but hopeful story with us. Your family certainly has endured so much. I hope that the coming years are full of blessings and good health.
ReplyDeleteThey say "God doesn't give you more than you can handle" and in your case, it sound like that is so. You have risen above the pain and suffering and found peace and love in your life.
ReplyDeleteOh my, your story, Spencer, sounds very much like my own. My older brother and I were victims (and victorious) of polio. He suffered no ill effects. I was only 18 months old. I learned just like you, one step at a time, I spent 18 months in a polio sanitarium, which actually became a Children's Hospital in Dayton that I worked at for over 27 years. I too have had many, many breaks and surgeries, also Post Polio, and now renal disease that they chalk up to polio. But also like you I have led a blessed life, sometimes I think when you have challenges to face like we did it makes you so much stronger and grateful to our Lord for what we are able to do and the wonderful people that He puts in our life. My husband recently left me after 43 years, but the son God blessed me with stepped up to care for me. I also have his sweet 19 year old daughter who calls me everyday several times to check on me. Yes, life can be sweet but we much choose it. Well, I've gone on for awhile, I will mark your page, and visit again. May God continue to pour His blessings on you.
ReplyDeleteSharon Waynesville OH
thank you for sharing your testimony! and it is a testimony! thru all of that, you stayed strong and leaned on Jesus-literally and figuratively! we are after all, here to bring glory an honor to Him and you have done just that! you're an amazing woman! i pray that God will continue to bless you and your family! and hope for pain free days ahead! you never know what God's gonna do!
ReplyDeleteSpencer, how could I not read through to the end. Your story is so sad, and your beautiful sister, I'm so sorry for your loss. I am so glad your up and better after your fall. God Bless.........
ReplyDelete~Emily
The French Hutch
I just read your story and what a story it is! I was married once to a wonderful man that had polio as a child and he never moved his right arm since 6 years old. He does a lot with his feet when no one is looking. And his other arm doesn't work right. We are still friends. The sister I am closest to is ill with an auto immune disease and fibromyalgia, so I understand totally what your life is like. God blesses us in many ways and others we can't ask why. God bless you...Your blog is beautiful and your creative talents show in all you do.
ReplyDeleteWow, what an awesome story! I cannot imagine the pain and suffering you endured. My Mother's sister had polio and it left her with a shriveled arm and permanent fist in her hand. She never complained and did everything. when she was in her 50's, she was able to have an operation freeing her hand from the fist! She is now in a rehab center and in her 80's. she fell letting the dog out and never regained her senses fully....sad! I am glad your story has a happy ending..Happy pink Sat!
ReplyDeleteOh, Spencer! Your story has brought tears to my eyes for so many reasons - the heartache your parents must have endured over their young daughters' suffering, the loss of your sister, your own pain and suffering over the years, but most of all for how you still give sweet glory to Jesus! I don't know how people make it on this pain-stricken planet without HIM! Do you?
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Liz @ the Brambleberry Cottage
http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/
Hi Spencer,
ReplyDeleteI love your courage and spirit and admire you and your mum. I am now following you.
Many blessings and hugs...Lu
What a wonderful testimony. God blessed you with a wonderful mother as well as an appreciation for beautiful things.
ReplyDeleteThankfully as Christians we know this earth is not our home..our home is in heaven and home is where your family is.
I will be praying for God to continue to bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Hugs
Spencer, you have quite a story to tell. You made me think of the college I attended that made the campus wheel chair accessible everywhere--back before it was mandated. Since I'm also from your age era, there were several students who were polio survivors on campus. You made me think of my dear suite mate Millie, sweet Millie with a brace on her leg and a constant smile on her face. I can't help but think of how proud your sister would be of you.
ReplyDeleteGod bless,
Lallee
My brother in laws mother had post polio syndrome and she survived to be 89 years young. She was one of those who blessed to be upright and walking but horrible headaches and leg aches all her life from spinal issues and nerves be put upon.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy to hear that you found a blessing wrap inside the inigma of polio. I live with much as well but I get up every single day & bring myself to the front of the house if for no other reason than to look my beloved in the eyes and tell him how grateful I am God brought him into my life. Then I look at the other 24 eyeballs who just want to drown me in kisses.
Life is good & we all learn to live with the adversity thrown at us. I'm so pleased to have met you and look forward to getting to know you better. We all need to lift each other up in good times but especially during the rough ones. Sometimes you just need a good cry once in a while and others, we want to laugh until we almost pee. Hugs to you and I'm so pleased to be sending you these little sachets.
Tammy
Oh Spencer my goodness you have been through so very much!! I cannot even imagine but am in awe of you!
ReplyDeleteI love how our God is so faithful!!
hugs,
Lori
You are one 'tough cookie' Spencer. Yes you can certainly be grateful to our Heavenly Father for giving you the strength and courage to look for the positive in all this. It sounds as though you have a wonderful life and a loving family...you are very blessed.
ReplyDeleteMaura X
what a beautiful emotional story. God bless you. You are an amazing strong women. We all have different paths to follow don't we? yours has been hard and yet you don't complain as I said God bless you!!
ReplyDeleteSpencer, thank you for visiting my blog, so I could find yours! You are such an inspiration.... I'm glad to have "met" you! :)
ReplyDeleteGod bless, Lana
Your story encourages me to no end! I just found this blog and am really really enjoying it, especially the pictures!
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer, Just read your story and I am crying...Not because I feel sorry but because your life is a beautiful testimony of God's grace and courage in this journey called life! Thank you for sharing, thank you for your blog. ( I do not have a blog..YET!) I am deeply encouraged by you today. Have a lovely day, Dru from OKC.
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer, Just read your story and I am crying...Not because I feel sorry but because your life is a beautiful testimony of God's grace and courage in this journey called life! Thank you for sharing, thank you for your blog. ( I do not have a blog..YET!) I am deeply encouraged by you today. Have a lovely day, Dru from OKC.
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer
ReplyDeleteI'm sitting here feeling sorry for myself after ELECTIVE foot surgery. Wow--did I get a reality check.
I love your blog and will check back frequently. Your tutorials are great!
Jo Ann
Hi Spencer
ReplyDeleteI'm sitting here feeling sorry for myself after ELECTIVE foot surgery. Wow--did I get a reality check.
I love your blog and will check back frequently. Your tutorials are great!
Jo Ann
Your blog is so inspiring and I received such a blessing from your story. God has blessed you so much with creativity and enjoying beauty in simple things and you have made others appreciate it also! Aren't you glad that one day we will be reunited with those we loved and they passed to heaven before us. Thank you, thank you for sharing all your lovely pictures and tutorials and most of all thank you for sharing Jesus!
ReplyDeleteHi Spencer,
ReplyDeleteFirst I wanted to thank you for visiting my blog today and leaving a sweet comment. I came to see what you were up to and found such a beautiful place to visit. Your story is inspiring...your determination to overcome the adversities you were dealt. Thank you so much for sharing. So many of us keep our struggles to ourselves and never open ourselves up to the chance that we might bond with others in need by sharing our experiences. <3
What an inspiring testimony. Hope this finds you well in 2016.
ReplyDelete