When you go through deep waters I will be with you” Isaiah 43:2

If you have followed Jillian’s posts, you know I suffered a basilar artery aneurysm rupture on May 19th. I had emergency brain surgery that evening, spent 14 days in ICU, and 2 days in the neuro unit at Menorah. As terrifying and difficult as that was, I feel like I’ve just won an Academy Award - I’m happy and grateful, and my thank you list is very long!

God is on top of my list! By His grace, I am here. Dr. Robert Singer, my neurosurgeon, is my new hero. He swooped in like Superman and with his team, saved my life. The 911 operator who tried to keep me calm, Craig, the paramedics and firefighters that rescued me from my house and transported me safely, to all the imaging technologists, PTs, OTs, MAs, nurses, doctors, staff at Menorah Medical Center; they all were instrumental in getting me to where I am today.

Thank you to my amazing daughter Jillian. She stayed by my side everyday in ICU (until staff made her go home usually after visiting hours), advocated for me in the hospital, decorated my ICU room to make it more like home, created the Caring Bridge,  supported and encouraged me through every step of my recovery. We now share membership in the “second chance at life” club. She is the heart of my heart. 💕

Thank you to Jillian’s boyfriend Isaac, who stayed by her side, sat with Jillian and Craig while I was in surgery, visited me with Jillian, embraced my family - he is supportive, giving, and has such a caring nature. I’m so glad he and Jillian found each other!

The support and love showered on me by my brothers and sisters is always amazing. I am incredibly blessed to be part of this family! The 5 of them are truly the greatest gift my parents ever gave to me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Family, friends, work family, neighbors, supported us with prayers, visits, dinners, flowers, calls, texts. We are thankful for all the people, near and far, who are a part of our lives.

Now for my PSA - Always advocate for yourself especially when it comes to your health. We know ourselves better than anyone. I knew something wasn’t right for several months. I met some obstacles and it took a few steps to get to the answer, but without my persistence, I probably wouldn’t be here. Ruptured brain aneurysms are fatal in about 50% of cases. Of those who survive, about 66% suffer some permanent neurological deficit. So many things had to fall into place perfectly for me to survive and be able to write about this event. I had known about the aneurysm for a week before the rupture. Without that knowledge, time would have been against me and my outcome could have been quite different. Fight for yourself and loved ones.

I recognize that some of what I gave importance, wasn’t really important. Share with abundance the hugs and “I love you’s”. Choose kindness. We all have two lives. The second life begins when we realize we only have one. Praying for God’s blessings on all of you.