My mom and dad flew out to California a few weeks ago and got her all signed up and ready to go. My grandmother was a bit nervous since it has been over 10 years since she has been able to get into a swimming pool. But she is also an adventurous type and couldn't wait.
Here's a little definition of MS "Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune response attacks a person's central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to impairment in sensation, movement, cognition, or other functions depending on which nerves are involved." -courtesy of wikipedia
Grandma Arlene was diagnosed with MS in the late 80's, luckily she was older so it had been a very slow progression. Her main area affected has been her legs. This was a camping, hiking, motorcycle mama we're talking about here so once the MS took away her ability to walk it took away a huge chunk of who she was.
She lives in a little town in the mountains and when word got out that there was a handicap excess-able pool we all jumped at the chance to get her in there! I mean where is the one place you can feel normal and healthy even if your legs don't work anymore? The pool!! Her smile is the most beautiful I have ever seen and I loved getting these pictures in my e-mail inbox today.
Way to go mom for giving this amazing gift to grandma, and way to go grandma for getting right in the water, and always inspiring me to jump over any hurdles that get in my way. I love you.
*added later by my mother: "How blessed I am to be the daughter of this "swimming Grandma". Her example of how to live life hand in hand with her Heavenly Father & happy for each and every day is truly a feat we all can learn from. Her legs may not work, but her heart & love for her family makes up for any "disability" people may see on the outside. I LOVE you Liz for sharing this beautiful story with your friends."
Thanks mom :)
au revoir, adieu, ciao, till next time...
