was injured in a moped accident on December 12,
1998. The purpose of this site is to help friends and family remain
connected during her recovery by relaying information and
inspiration from her mother Martha McCook, her father David Gilmour and now Tudor herself!
Tudor and Martha: 541 NW Newport Ave., Bend, OR 97701 tudora@bendnet.com
Ann Tudor Gilmour Care Trust: IRS ID #93-6350729 Click Here
Magazine Article, Better Health & Living, January 2007 Click Here
Newspaper Article, Bend Bulletin, December 3, 2005 Click Here
Newspaper Article, Bend Bulletin, May 12, 2002 Click Here.
Click Here to View Postings Prior to Nov 2004
September 24, 2009
My ten year 'celebration of life' was on December 12th, 2008 and I had a fabulous
time celebrating with Mom and many others. I created a 'virtual marathon' and
invited about 25 people to walk or run a portion of the distance, then I tallied all of the
distances. WE ALL WALKED MORE THAN A MARATHON, so that felt like a triumphant
accomplishment. It is a well-known fact that by joining the peoples' efforts all
together, great goals are more easily obtained.
I have participated in fourteen 5K walks/runs now, always with Mom by my side and pulling me along, and I have been feeling
quite confident to try one on my own. On June 7th, 2009 I attempted my first
5K, walking on my own, and successfully completed it without my jogger. My time was only
slightly slower than with my jogger and Mom said "my form looked smooth and steady".
I have another 5K planned this month and a trip to San Francisco for my birthday on September 24th.
Recently, my half-sister Robin, introduced me to Facebook, and I liked it so much I joined.
Thanks to Facebook, I have been reunited with the friends I was with in
Hawaii to run my first Marathon on 12/12/98. It feels nice to exchange emails with some old friends and have some
communication. We are each in different places now, ten years later, and I send
them peace of mind and comfort in their hearts regarding this experience.
At Acrovision Sports I am still gaining agility skills, and benefiting from my workouts at
Juniper Swim and Fitness Center where I am in the pool Monday and Friday
mornings, have a sitting yoga class Tuesday mornings, and a weight room workout
Wednesday mornings. My water workouts are going well and I now feel totally
relaxed about being surrounded by water (as long as I have an aqua jogger around
my waist). In yoga we do some coordination and agility moves in chairs and then
we do some standing and balance movements.
I am continuing my work with two tutors in reading and math each week and volunteer at the nearby elementary school twice a week in a first grade classroom. I really enjoy reading with the little ones. I have started taking the Dial-A-Ride bus to a local
bookstore once a week. I like the intellectual setting, the beauty of so
many books, and bringing a book to read in the cafe. Lately, I have read "Be a
Dog With a Bone", which I loved, “Stargirl” and the sequel “Love”, and now I’m
reading “Blue Like Jazz” by Donald Miller. Reading a good book is my new favorite
hobby.
The biggest news for our household is our new dog, Bella. She is an adorable mini-goldendoodle.
Stay tuned for news, photos and updates in my next entry.
Joel Osteen's words that I read last month remind me to keep doing my best work:
"God didn't create any of us to be average. He didn't make us to barely
get by. We were created to excel. The Scripture teaches that before the foundation of the world,
God not only chose us, but equipped us with everything
we need to live His abundant life. You have seeds of greatness inside of
you, but it is up to you to believe it and
act on them."
July 2008
Mom and I train at Juniper Fitness Center four mornings a week. We are in the pool two mornings, the weight room
once each week, and a sitting yoga class. In the pool I follow a workout routine prescribed by a therapist from
St. Charles and the Juniper pool specialist . I feel much more confident and aware of "proper placement" walking
on land now that I have had the freedom to move in the pool without the fear of falling over.
During the month of June at St. Charles Medical Center, I participated in five hour-long physical therapy sessions.
While there, I worked on my speed-walk strategy, standing on an uneven surface, shifting my head and point of
view and walking on uneven surfaces to develop ankle strength. My therapist set up an obstacle course with different
objects to step over and step on, to challenge and develop my ability to make it in this rocky, uneven world.
On May 3rd, Mom and I walked in our 11th 5K race, the "Salmon Run". I completed it in less than an hour, which
was my goal and my fastest time ever, 58 minutes. Altogether, it felt exciting to complete this walk with
hundreds of other participants and fabulous to enjoy a beautiful spring morning in Central Oregon.
My friend and learning tutor, Cameron suggested a great book to me, and we have been reading it together.
It is called The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch, a science professor at Carnegie Mellon, a husband and father of
three young children. It is about his experience of receiving the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, and how that
affected his work, and life. He decided to write an informational and historic speech that looked at his life,
leaving a legacy to all, especially his family.
I am continuing to work with my other learning tutor, Bert for an hour each week. He estimates that I am doing
"high school junior level work". I have been reading through essays and correcting the errors in them; usually
10-15 incorrectly spelled words, punctuation, quotation placement and grammar. My editing and writing skills
continue to develop.
Lately I have two ambitions: thoughts of becoming a writer of children's books, possibly some inspiring,
uplifting stories for all ages, and the 'Time with Tudor' idea still appeals to me. . .More later about
these endeavors!
Thank you, to everyone who has made a purchase of Mrs. Greenbalm and if you are thinking of getting some,
please go for it.....either at San Mateo Whole Foods if you live in that area or on-line at
www.mrsgreenbalm.com. It's great for gardening hands, blisters, healing bug bites, wrinkles, and more,
not to mention, your fancy new tattoo!
Quote from The Last Lecture:
April 2008
I dedicate this entry to my Grandmother, Ann Schneider, who has been my bright
shining light and biggest cheerleader for the last nine years. She passed away
on January 10th, 2008 after surviving major heart surgery. She is now living in
the eternal light.
She believed in me, encouraged me, supported me, and she was certain of my recovery
from my "Traumatic Brain Injury".
Our weekly schedule for 2008 keeps us busy. Mom and I go to "Juniper Fitness Center"
four mornings each week. Mondays and Fridays I follow a pool workout set up by my
St. Charles Physical Therapist and a Juniper Pool Personal Trainer. While I cannot
swim yet, I am strengthening my leg muscles and going through the motions of running
with an aqua belt on.
Tuesday mornings we are taking a sitting yoga class to increase my range of motion
and flexibility, especially around my rib cage.
Wednesdays we go to the weightroom, where I follow a routine coordinated by the P.T.s.
After six months of these visits, my coach at Acrovision Sports Center is blown away at my
improvements; I can perform a 40 foot 'Speed Walk' in 8.5 seconds; I run more steps on the
Tumble Tramp (about 5-6 at a time) and my agility trials are getting easier.
On Wednesday afternoons I meet with an Adult Education Volunteer from the Community
College and we read books and interesting magazine articles, and then discuss what we read.
This improves my comprehension. She introduced me to the magazine ODE, which has brief,
interesting articles about different topics all around the world. This is perfect for
challenging my reading comprehension and general understanding of the various topic.
On Thursdays I work with a private tutor to sharpen my writing skills with language drills,
and we finish with a mentally stimulating game of "Sudoko".
Dr. David Stewart and all of my teachers/trainers are thrilled with my continuous improvements.
Former President Bill Clinton visited Bend just last week to give a speech supporting Hillary's
Presidential Plan. Mom and I watched his speech on TV, which was a great way to sit in the front
row and really hear what he had to say and discuss his message.
The 2008 season of 5K walks and runs is underway in Bend and I am expecting to improve my walking
time even more this year. My best time last year was 1 hour 11 minutes and I finished my first
walk of this season in 1:10....YES!
More news in my next report about my petite position with Mrs. Greenbalm and my volunteer
work with the neighborhood elementary school.
Thank you for your prayers and positive thoughts for my reconnecting brain development!
Please keep them coming and know that you are a connective piece in the process that is
helping to create PEACE ON EARTH!
"LET THE MUSIC OF LOVE MELT YOUR HEART."
November 2006
I am still following my rewarding routines of two sessions per week at each location:
Acrovision Sports Center, Terpsichorean Dance Studio, Kumon Math and Reading school, and
I'm a teacher's aide once again at Highland School, the elementary school next-door to my
house. I am learning to follow a work routine for Mrs. Greenbalm one day per week and I
have a sample company that I can use to get practice on. My schedule is full and I am
continuously improving on my speed as I walk, my comprehension, my flexibility, and my
brain/muscle communication. In ballet I can direct my right toe down to touch the floor
in a pointed position and it will happen, at a slower pace, sometimes with a jerk, but it
is occurring. At Acrovision my 40 foot speed walk is down to 4.5 seconds, I can jog
continuously on the "Tumble Tramp" and I can walk horizontally on a line for 43 steps.
I've also been in "the pit" which is a floor zone filled up with gooey balls that is simply
room to play in. This is a first to trust that I can manage myself in that space. My school
work at Kumon Math and Reading is going along great and I am up to junior level math skills
and sophomore English. Unfortunately they are going out of business next month in December
so that therapy will end.
During the summer I participated in an 8 week series of physical and mobility lessons
at St. Charles Medical Center. The physical therapist that I was graciously matched
with immediately recognized my learning style and I worked very productively under his
care. I gained more balance memory using their high-tech "LiteGait" contraption and I
speed-walked 40 feet further in 8 minutes compared to my previous test.
The "Dial-a-Ride" bus line that I take to my therapies expanded to become a public bus
line for the Bend population and it's called "Bend Area Transit". Although I still get
my door to door service the rate went up...as the gas prices are still escalating higher
and higher these days.
I signed up for my fourth timed walk race event, the "Jingle Bell Walk" which takes
place on December 9, 2006. I know my time will improve from last year's record because
I am more confident and talented with my walking skills these days, although I still need
to hold onto Mom's arm for balance support.
THE BIG NEWS-
Hebrews 12:1-2 Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for
May/June 2006
The 5K walk was definitely a personal best for me. I have never walked that far before,
but I felt ready to leap forward mentally and achieve new goals. I asked Mom if she was
available to walk with me and offer herself for physical support to hold on to and she
said she was, so I sent in the entry form and began my training. I took long walks in
the nearby park, always timing myself with my pedometer, and kept a positive, jovial attitude
telling myself I would do it successfully. My physical therapist at St.Charles asked me what
my goal was and I answered him saying "I want to finish it!" and I was the last person to finish,
but I achieved my goal. I walked a little over 3 miles in 101 minutes and I know my finishing
times will become better from now on!
"From now on?" you're saying? Yes, I feel excited to begin walking public distance walks. They
are both for a good cause and it's fun to participate and connect with other local athletes. I
had such a nice time I entered another 5K walk this month. It is called "Hit the Trail" and in
hindsight, after completing the walk I know what "hitting the trail" means, literally. To my
surprise, the 5K walk covered paths on rocky, hilly, and uneven surfaces. I did it though, holding
on to Mom's hip bag once again. My time was a little longer, but I know that this is more of a real
life walking example and I'm glad I did it.
The Kumon School graduation ceremonies were held at the newly refurbished downtown Tower theatre.
This gave the students the opportunity to walk across a stage to receive their trophies, pins, and
ribbons from the Director. They set it up so that the younger students went first and I was last
because I'm one of the oldest students at that school. When I was honored to receive a math and
reading trophy I did a ballet curtsey before the crowd, because I'm enjoying taking advantage of
the different skills and lessons I receive at my different therapies. This gave me the opportunity
to bring a ballet move to my school. It was quite a treat to see so many children enjoy being
recognized for their academic achievements.
The following day at my Church was the graduation for the year long class that I've been taking
called "Minister Training Intensive." There were approximately 125 of us adults that were given a
diploma and we each received a prophetic ministry message from several prophets. I am called to be
a healer of sorts and have some travels in my future. I agreed somewhat and definitely recognize
that Jesus always knows all things at all times and so I will continue with this healing mission
I'm on now and it will be complete someday sooner than later. I mentioned to the director that I
would love to be an apprentice next year in the course and he said "OK, sounds good" so we'll see.
For the month of June I am participating in a special Physical Therapy program twice each week for
an hour at St. Charles Hospital. I am using some equipment that I've used twice before, the
BALANCE MASTER and the LITE GAIT. These contraptions were created to assist space travelers
with a harnessing system. The idea is that when I am buckled into the harness, my fear of
falling will disappear and I'll be able to run at a high speed when I'm on the treadmill.
That hasn't happened yet, but I feel confident it will happen soon.
For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
"It is crucial that we see ourselves as God sees us, since we will never rise above the image we
have of ourselves. If we see ourselves as barely making it, always having problems, never happy,
we will subconsciously move toward that sort of life. To move forward in life, we must change our
focus. We must believe. Understand this: God will help you, but you cast the deciding vote."
March 2006
Mom recently went to a Tattoo Convention in Reno, NV to hand out samples of Mrs. Greenbalm,
become familiar with the body art industry, meet some artists, and learn some lingo. She came
home with only one tattoo, and it was a temporary one! The tattoo and piercing industry is one
of the fastest growing industries in the world. College age students represent the largest
market. While there are a few "natural" aftercare products available, Mrs. Greenbalm is the
ONLY organic tattoo aftercare product in the American market. In addition to learning Quick
Books for bookkeeping I will be in charge of taking orders from the internet.
Check out our website: www.mrsgreenbalm.com.
Mom will hire me when I am competent with all aspects of bookkeeping.
I have been meeting weekly with a small women's group at my house and we are reading a book
by John ans Stasi Eldredge called Captivating. It is encouraging us as young women to be
empowered and radiant as God intends. As a woman I am learning about the power of intention
to heal myself, to nourish others, to inspire and provide comfort, and to adore my body
because "a woman's body is one of the most beautiful of all God's creations."
The book reminds us that true BEAUTY is on the inside ...
My Bichon dog, Lily turned two on March 11, 2006 and she is still some work but she is
becoming a loyal and obedient friend. I am still memorizing the proper commands so that Lily
gives us the results we desire.
I am wishing you a season of resurrection, renewal, and an abundant bloom of new life. Please
see me walking in grace and beauty with clear recall.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in
him shall not perish but have eternal life."
January 2006
Last January, Dad replaced my old Palm Pilot with a top-model Tungsten and
this allowed me to track, record, and use information in my daily life, such
as appointments to attend, the location, and a personal address book. This is
an essential piece of equipment for me as my brain heals to hold information
on its own.
A blessing I received last year was the invitation to take the Minister Training
Course again through Westside Church, which I graciously accepted, because I know
that repetition builds strong memory. This year I am focusing on memorizing key
Bible verses (like John 3:16) and understanding the organization of the Bible.
I continue to attend Terpsichorean Ballet Studio, Acrovision Sports Center, Kumon
Math and Reading twice each week and I also volunteer one day a week at the
elementary school near my house. In other words, my life is very full and ‘HALLELUIAH'
I am constantly making mental, physical and spiritual progress. Please pray for my
long and short term memory to be restored to perfection.
Summer time was filled with visits at St. Charles Medical Center and Vocational
Rehabilitation. The Vocational Rehabilitation office gave me a software disc called
"Brain Train" and I go for a 'mental ride' each evening. It gives math and English
drills that I am gradually improving on in speed and accuracy. I am currently reading
at the level of a 9th grader and my math problems are also in early high school;
decimals, fractions, positive and negative numbers. Some improvement in physical
development came about through my 10 week session at St. Charles Medical Center.
I visited twice each week for an hour session working specifically on balance,
body weight positioning, and general movement methods.
Some other big news for 2005 was my Lasik Eye Surgery in April. I had wanted this
procedure for three years and I kept hearing from others about how wonderful the
results were for them. After having the surgery I feel like a whole new woman and
I am free from the bother of needing contacts or glasses. I am experiencing a new
dimension of balance and I delight in seeing the stars and moon at night.
I continue to receive financial, emotional, and spiritual support from loving
family members, particularly Granny and Mom, and I am so thankful for them.
Also, my sincere thanks go to other generous relatives, friends, supporters and
ongoing contributors to my life and wellness. We appreciate and gratefully welcome
your contributions in the New Year.
As a triumphant finish to 2005 I appeared in a large color photo on the front
page of our local newspaper, The Bulletin. The article discussed a mile long
walk for charity that I did with Mom and it mentioned the seven year anniversary
of my recovery process.
Following is an excerpt from the Bulletin article and a quote from my Acrovision
coach.
From The Bulletin
"She has regained the balance and coordination needed to walk the 1-mile route, and
walks unaided, albeit slowly. During the race, her mother will be there every step of
the way, just as she has been for the past seven years. When she spotted the brochure
for the Jingle Bell Run she said 'It seemed like an invitation that was jumping out at
me' so she took it home to see if Mom thought it's OK too. She has raised $200 from sponsors
on top of her entry fee. 'I really have a feeling, with all that I've received in these
seven years, it's a way of expressing my gratitude,' she said. 'Not in any specific way,
but as a citizen helping out other citizens.' "
Coach Rich at Acrovision:
"Tudor finished another enlightening year here at Acrovision. Everyday
she seemed to bring the sunshine in with her. Her optimistic lifestyle
has provided her with a tool of empowerment over odds that were told to
be against her. Over the course of this past year Tudor has shown
great improvement in speed, strength and overall balance and
coordination. I truly look forward to what 2006 has in store for her!
Keep up the great work Tudor!"
October/November 2005
During the summertime I completed an 8 week physical
therapy program at St. Charles Medical Center working
with the "Balance Master" machine. I had 2 sessions
a week and at the end I was re-tested and scored 80-100 %
in each area, which means my balance is within the "normal"
range now. I still have plenty of room for improvement when
it comes to my gait and walking style. With better balance,
this will now be easier to accomplish. I was happy to get these
results and I am trusting that improved skill levels are within
me as I move forward in life.
And speaking of moving forward, I ride my three-wheel bicycle
to ballet, to Kumon school and around town on certain routes
that I've memorized. While I still check in with Mom on my cell
phone when I reach my destination, I feel more independent. This
school year I am continuing to walk a block to the elementary
school, where I am a teacher's aide again for 2nd/3rd graders.
I have also been walking downtown and two days before my birthday
I walked home from my hair salon, which is about 3/4 of a mile.
It felt GREAT! I consider this a major step towards entering into a new
level of activities, after so many lessons and so much training- THANK YOU GOD!"
The other BIG news is that I have started Vocational Rehabilitation,
a state and federal program that will prepare me to have a job. I am
training in "Quick Books" to become a bookkeeper on my new laptop computer.
This is very exciting, another step towards independent living.
IN MEMORIAM
Greg Freeman, Aunt Tudor's husband and my former website manager,
passed away on August 31, 2005, his 59th birthday. I am so grateful
for all the time he donated to publish my website and keep you all
informed of my progress for over 6 years. Thank you Greg!
August 2005
My vocational rehabilitation sessions are going very well and I am working
on the "Brain Train", which is a computerized learning device. I'll "board"
the train 2 times each week for an hour lesson. Also, I'll receive some
private instruction at my house twice a week for an hour each time. This
will allow me to have a personal lesson at my own pace.
Our annual August family reunion in Bend was filled with some important
milestones for me this year. I was able to visually recognize everyone and
remember names and I felt mentally strong enough to keep my attention
focused for the evening events. I maintained my regular daily schedule for
studying and physical therapy and joined
the family for dinner to hear about everyone's adventures of the day.
At one family dinner party we had a karaoke contest with 10 competitors. Low
and behold, I WON!! I felt so proud and satisfied that I was able to stand
up, sing the song "LOVE" by Ella Fitzgerald, and dedicate the song to my
Uncle Greg.
Greg has stomach cancer and I ask you all to put him in your prayers to have
some comfort and peace of mind for Aunt Tudor, his family, and everyone that
loves him so much.
I am eternally grateful for his generosity as web master
for my site. He deserves special recognition from all of us on 'Team Tudor'.
May/June 2005
Three years ago I placed the words "20/20 eyesight" on a treasure map that I
made in a "Golden Bridge" workshop and now that day has come~ Halleluiah!!
I had my bi-annual check up with Dr. Stewart last month and it went very
well. I asked him how my walking style looked and he said he can see some
improvements. He noted that there is still a little too wide of a gait when
I walk, but it's getting better each time he sees me. I'll be working on
that during my physical therapy treatments during the months to come.
Mom and I will go into business together soon producing the herbal salve,
"Mrs. Greenbalm".
I will begin learning some bookkeeping skills through
vocational rehabilitation. This will teach me the ability to process orders,
keep a precise record of our inventory, and work with numbers.
I know that my life is enriched by God's guidance. Please keep saying
prayers for me and now that I am an 'Ambassador of Christ Minister', please
feel free to contact me with your prayer requests.
David and Nancy Gilmour: PO Box 242, Ross, CA 94957: DMGilmour@aol.com
Hello to all! I am doing well. Enclosed is an update on my activities and progress.
I'm continuing to develop my mind, physical skills and self realization. At my recent appointment with Dr. Stewart who has followed my recovery and progress since May 1999, he noted that I am "definitely making progress". And, after a month long session this summer with a Physical Therapist, my improvements in balance and coordination were measured and evaluated and improvements in all areas were noted as well.
Summer weather has finally arrived here in Bend, which gives me the opportunity to practice my "time management"
skills. It warms up to a dry 85-90 degrees between 2 PM and 7 PM, so I walk my dog Lily, and do my Juniper Fitness
activities in the cool mornings; either pool, weight room, or sitting yoga. In the warm afternoons I am enjoying
some intellectual learning experiences indoors at home.
"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand."
-Randy Pausch
Hello everyone ~ it's Springtime ~ HALLELUIAH!
I realize it has been a long time since I've written a web-site entry,
so I'll bring you up to date.
As I move forward during my busy days, I can still feel her love and guidance
coming through.
-Sai Maa
On the 24th of September I turned thirty four years old and this new year of my life is
full of fun, learning new mental and physical skills, and deepening my spiritual purpose.
I am taking the "Minister Training Course" at my Church for the third year and this class
has taught me to feel even more proud and pleased with myself. Although my Mother leads
me to "the light" day after day, it's nice to join 80 other adults that are also pursuing
the path that Jesus has laid out for each of us. It is through our similarities that I
feel drawn to care for and comfort others and yet as I continue to discover our uniqueness
I am even more mystified by our glorious God.
I will be officially employed by Mrs. Greenbalm on 12/12/06, my 8 year anniversary of recovery.
I will work a part-time schedule (4 hours per week) and still continue with my therapies.
So, celebrate with me by placing an order for a large jar or a small jar. It is a very
helpful way to continue your paricipation in the next level of my healing process.
A jar of Mrs. Greenbalm Healing Salve/Organic Tattoo Aftercare is good for any cut
or scrape you might incur, plus for use after gardening or for dry winter cracks,
healing incisions, burns or blisters. Tell Santa it fits perfectly into stockings
and be sure to have some handy for 2007!
Go now to the website WWW.MRSGREENBALM.COM and order
some today!
us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our
faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its
shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
May was a memorable month for me for several reasons. I completed two 5K Benefit walks,
received awards from the Kumon Center and graduated from the Westside Church "Minister
Training Intensive" course.
Psalm 5:12
-Joel Osteen
March weather in Bend, Oregon was colder than normal this year and I enjoyed the experience,
but now I'm really looking forward to the arrival of Summer. In addition to my ongoing classes
at Kumon, Acrovision and ballet, I am continuing to work on learning basic bookkeeping skills
for our business, selling Mrs. Greenbalm as the finest in tattoo aftercare.
"Your beauty should not come from the outward adornment, such as braided hair and the
wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self,
the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit." (1 Peter 3 :3-4)
John 3:16
Last year, 2005, was full of development, good changes, fun, and learning
and I hope you are saying “Me too” because in my opinion, that’s what life
is all about. I exercised my choice-making ability to stay joyful, positive,
hopeful and happy and recognized the benefits and beauty in every situation.
I know that it is possible to see “the light” at all times because Mom and I
mirror each other as we live our lives and this allows us to shine in life.
On the 24th of September I celebrated my 33rd
birthday with a day of beauty treatments. A
friend and I had a complete facial makeover
and new hairstyle at a salon. With our glamorous
looks, we proceeded to The Mongolian Grill restaurant
to enjoy lunch with several other friends. It has been
my wish to have friends to do things with and my prayers
were answered. Later in the evening I enjoyed a special
birthday dinner, delicious birthday cake and ice cream
with my Grandmother and family.
I successfully completed a 6 week session of 2 visits per week at St.
Charles Medical Center. In my last visit the therapist said "Congratulations
Tudor, you have exceeded my expectations!" I did a timed walk in the
hallway that was 6 minutes long, and I walked 1280 feet.
In May I had Lasik eye surgery and it went very well. The procedure took
just a few minutes and the healing went smoothly. It feels so great to see
things all day long on my own, and to wake up at night and clearly see the
stars and planets in our universe. Enclosed is a photo of my eye surgeon
with me after my 20/20 vision checkup.
Last month I successfully graduated from the "Minister Training Course" at
our church. I was in a large class with many people who celebrated with a
final ceremony. A week afterwards we received some prophetic ministry words.
It was seen that I would lead some family members to Christ, make a full
recovery and be an inspirational speaker before large audiences. More than
ever I know that God's grace is continually blessing me as I live a full
life.
During the church service the preacher asked us to share something about her life. I stood up and shared how she wrote me several letters each week that spoke of my Gilmour family, her feelings in life, and God's eternal love. Her letters were a large part of my developing a sense of belonging and gaining some family connection. I felt confident and thankful that I had the opportunity to publicly share my love and thanks for her. Glory to you Grandma Gilmour!
In April Mom traveled down to Pasadena, CA for her 40th high school reunion (yes, I said 40th, isn't she a sparkling beauty?). While she was out of town my sister Hillary and her 10 month old baby Henry came to stay with me. It was so enjoyable to spend several days living together. Hillary loves being a Mom and that was so apparent when I saw her with Henry, communicating to each other and sending love back and forth.
On May 17th I will receive Lasik eye surgery to permanently correct my vision, so my days wearing glasses will end. One of my own doctors has had this surgery and says it will be a powerful, positive change and very liberating. This visual adjustment will enable me to feel complete and whole on my own. Those of you that wear contacts or glasses can relate to this fact and can imagine how much of a change this will be.
"I have a divine mission! God has created me with everything I need so that
I can fulfill a unique and important role in the world."
Daily Word
March 2005
Springtime joy is here in Bend...fresh start energy is in the air! There are
subtle suggestions of spring in the High Desert; flocking birds in the blue
sky, crocuses are blooming, and Spring Break for students is next week. I
love the new beginnings all around me.
I made a decision last month to have my vision surgically corrected and so I've been wearing my glasses to let my pupils stabilize, as the doctors recommend. I've wanted this surgery for three years and I always hear people say after having the Laser procedure that they are so glad that they did it. I've been wearing glasses since 2nd grade and I'm legally blind without my glasses. I have been saving money since 2002 for this surgery and I am eligible for the payment plan they offer.
My physical progress is continuing at Acrovision and I'm able to take bike rides often. I know that I'll be making some schedule changes this summer, when school ends, and in the meantime I'll do my best to keep gaining more balance and coordination and giving much praise to the Lord, which revitalizes me.
Every other week I am now seeing a therapist who specializes in "Biofeedback". She has a computerized device that assists me to form new connections in my brain and body. She can enter my goals and desired outcome into the computer and it can track through my body to help me eliminate barriers and blocks. I feel as though this will take me into a new season of wellness, which is my Easter blessing to all!
"Following God's plan of abundance for me, I achieve my goals and dreams." Daily Word
January / February 2005
At the Kumon Math and Reading School I attend, an award ceremony was held
last month. It was such a grand experience to be named as a successful
student who is making great progress in both math and reading. I received
two medals and a trophy for my accomplishments in both subjects and I will
continue to advance there in my studies this year.
Westside Church has been presenting a great topic for several weeks now and I am really enjoying it. It is called "The Possibles". We have been reminded about all of the opportunities and avenues God has in store for each one of us. I have loved this series because I can relate to it extraordinarily well and it gives me a powerful reminder that I am exactly in the right place at the right time because I'm in line with Him. And it means so much to me to hear Pastor Ken say, "I become better when I see the better in others because that's what God sees" and "Thank you God for starting a miracle in me!"
I feel as though my physical and mental progress is coming along steadily, but the other day I had a "melt-down". I was tired of everyday things, like walking and talking comprehensively, which seemed to be SO much work to complete successfully. My wonderful Mother reminded me that I need to take time to sit back, relax, and reflect on my achievements and know that God sees the perfection that is inside of me, under the outer condition. This was a great reminder that instantly picked me up.
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to everyone!!!
Inspirations from the Daily Word:
"Created to love, I share the God within me."
"I believe in the infinite possibilities of God's creativity."
December 2004
I spent Thanksgiving Holiday with the Gilmours in Southern California. About
thirty relatives enjoyed a succulent spread of the traditional dishes at my
Aunt's house. I especially enjoyed seeing my nieces and nephew, they are
looking so happy and healthy. Back in Northern California I had the chance
to shop for specialty items at Paradise Foods, before I flew home.
My six year anniversary of new life occurred on December 12 of this year, which was a Sunday. That afternoon I starred in the Acrovision Holiday Show and my coach showed the audience a video tape of me in the shows in 2001, 2002, and 2003. My 2004 performance was a huge success; as the crowd cheered me on, I reduced my obstacle coarse time by 1 minute. My improvement was obvious to all and Coach Rich has done a wonderful job of recording my progress.
After the show I attended my youth group at Central Oregon Community College where I had an important, meaningful experience. The leader handed me a form that listed the small group leaders and people in charge of different duties. I was assigned to be the greeter and room organizer for the coming year. This gives me a sense of purpose and belonging within the group, and a wonderful way to enhance my social skills. I'm excited to be a part of a peer group of active Christians.
During this Christmas vacation I went caroling with my youth group at our local community college. We sang dozens of our favorite songs and distributed candy canes to the dorm residents. Singing really put me in the spirit to celebrate the birth of our Lord. For Christmas I received many beautiful gifts including some technology upgrades for my planning systems. The instruction manuals read like a foreign language so I have lots of homework ahead.
"Following in the footsteps of Jesus, I enrich my own life and I inspire others." Daily Word