Archive for August, 2009
Story Circles
We’re going to try something new at Life o’ Mike. Since the word “rally” tends to bring out angry people who just want to yell at each other, we’re going to sponsor Story Circles, a chance for people to come tell their stories, hear other people’s stories and have a civil discussion.
The seed for this [...]
From Marey in Massachusetts
My friend, Marey sent this to me this morning and it is posted here with her permission:
I feel compelled to share this with you – whatever side you are ‘on’ for the future of our healthcare. I am not advocating for the present proposal at all … what I am advocating for is more “humaneness” [...]
Can we agree to disagree on some things?
Danny arranged for me to meet with Erica Franzi today. Erica is the head of the Asheville Tea Party. She is a libertarian, and I know she thinks my political opinions are way, way left.
But as my grandson played with her children, we found we had a lot in common. We’re both bleeding hearts; we [...]
Laughing with Trey
Danny came up today and brought Trey along . He says Trey conned him into it, but he knows I love hanging out with Trey. We went for a walk at the NC Arboretum. We only did a mile and a half, but I introduced him to black-eyed Susans and Joe Pye weed, holly trees and rose [...]
Let’s be grownups
I’ve been called a lot of names the last few weeks by people who don’t know a thing about me. Some people have been downright nasty. Many of them had nothing specific to say, just that they hate everything I stand for.
Thing is, I have engaged a few people and asked what they want to [...]
Over the edge
So, I have taken this leap and I feel Mike’s loss more acutely tonight. I would rather have him back than be doing this work, but here we go.
We’re back
We’re back, and I have some news.
I have left the Asheville Citizen-Times to devote my time to advocacy for access to quality health care for all Americans.
This was my choice, and it really wasn’t a difficult one. I was offered the chance to stay at the paper and I declined because this is an important [...]
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.