Tani

By choice I was a stay at home mom, happily married to my best friend, Paul, for 31 years, living a seemingly normal life, focused on our three amazing daughters and welcoming our first grandson when abruptly Paul was fired from his lifelong, successful career. 

This sharp turn began an extended journey of uncertainty, stress and fear! My intelligent, successful, fun-loving, husband became nearly unrecognizable to me. We were unaware his brain was being eaten by a horrific disease. He lost his balance, his emotion, his logic and was unaware of his decline.

Countless days turned to months, then years. I was engulfed in darkness, fear, uncertainty, stress and experienced a first time faith crisis. I mourned my husband and my life. 

After 3 long years of unanswered questions and misdiagnosis the love-of-my life was ultimately diagnosed with an unforeseen, rare, neurological brain disorder called PSP. There were no known treatments, surgeries or meds available. No hope for healing. And no timeline offered. This could continue 4 to 20 years or more!

My roles of happy mother and loved wife morphed to empty nester, work-from-home full time employee and simultaneous full time caregiver. I felt very isolated and burdened with heavy responsibilities. 

My life was unrecognizable to me. 

I turned to my Savior, Jesus Christ and then learned life coaching skills which created awareness and empowered me to survive, navigate and process the myriad of emotions I was experiencing. 

In time I chose to be open to the idea that it was possible this experience was somehow for my ultimate good. I could become better, not bitter. If I survived this, I could help empower others! I could be an example of what is possible! This gave me purpose! 

My beloved husband Paul passed away a week before Christmas in our home.

I certified as a life coach and continue my uncertain journey with hope, faith and empowerment. I have progressed from survive to thrive! I miss my husband  AND I am excitedly creating Part 2 of my beautiful life!