Living Fully with Chronic Illness and Disability
At The Ability Harbor we share stories, tips, and resources to help you grow while managing life’s unique challenges. We may be on similar journey's, but we're not the same.
3/14/20261 min read
We frequently hear the frustration and disappointment in people struggling to find their footing in a new diagnosis. It's easy to be encouraging and offer support, but it's crucial to remember that everyone has their own timeline to acceptance. There is no set time for us to come to terms with critical illness or injury.
We can speak of embracing our life's "new chapter", but it can take time. And it's a tough ask sometimes. But that's one reason we speak of the importance of having others surround us. Lean into them when your knees won't hold - or your inner self is saying its taking too long! Your support people will hold you upright until you find your strength on solid ground. And when you do, celebrate your strength.
Courage & Hope
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Founder's Story
As a medical professional, I spent my entire career caring for people at their most vulnerable. I had the privilege of standing beside families as they welcomed new life and holding hands as others said goodbye to someone they loved dearly. My work was never just a job—it was a calling, and I poured my heart and soul into it.
In 2005, everything changed. I was diagnosed with a brain tumor, a blow I never expected. Overnight, I found myself on the other side of the medical world—the patient instead of the professional. Over the years, I faced multiple surgeries, chemotherapy trials, and the latest radiation therapies. Each offered hope, but none could stop the tumor’s relentless growth. Eventually, I had to face the painful truth that I could no longer continue the work I loved and depended on. That loss brought its own kind of grief.
Not long after my third surgery and another round of radiation, I experienced a medical emergency at home—status epilepticus. Simply put, it’s a seizure lasting more than five minutes or a series of seizures without regaining consciousness in between. Quick treatment is essential to prevent permanent injury or even death. They estimated I was on the floor for several hours before help arrived.
When I woke up four days later, everything felt unfamiliar. My memory was clouded, my body unsteady, and I had no idea what had happened. What I did learn was that my life had changed permanently. I now had uncontrolled epilepsy caused by extensive scarring from surgeries and radiation.
I spent the next three months in a neurological rehabilitation program. I relearned how to balance and move. I worked through cognitive challenges. I learned how to adapt and rebuild my independence. It was a long, humbling journey—but I wasn’t alone. With an incredible support network and a determination to keep moving forward, I slowly began piecing my life back together.
Light and Love.
