Father’s Day
As Mike’s stepfather, I can’t say why it’s taken me so long to visit this site or post anything. I guess in my own way I’m working through feelings and memories, and even though I freely talk about it with Leslie, other family and friends, I find myself at a loss to adequately express how I feel about Mike’s death. Maybe this will be a start: On Father’s Day each year — without fail — Mike would take the time to call and wish me a happy Father’s Day. Even though we talked only a few minutes, it always touched me that he would make that effort. I’ve never been really secure in my role as stepfather, and Lord knows I made more than my share of mistakes. But Mike always reached out to me, and it always made me feel special. My day will be emptier without that phone call. I know I never said this enough when you were alive, but I hope it still counts for something: I love you, Mike
Patient Pals & Family Friends
Life o' Mike has a new peer support program for people newly diagnosed with chronic or serious illness or with a new disability and their caregivers.
Patient Pals are people who have experience with various illnesses and disabilities, who can help someone newly diagnosed or with a new disability work through the fear, frustration, confusion and grief often experienced in the first few months.
Family Friends are there to help caregivers and other family members grow into their new role.
People with new illness or disability fare better when they have a role model -- someone who can help them negotiate their new path in life.
We need volunteers, who are asked to donate a minimum of one hour a week. Training is free and includes information on active listening, ways to help and when to know more help is needed.
And of course, we need funding.
To learn more, call Leslie Boyd at 828-243-6712 or e-mail lifeomike@gmail.com.
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