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HELLO AND WELCOME

Welcome to my site. I know what it's like to live a "normal" life one day and lose almost everything in the next. If you've suffered a life-altering disability or are a familiy member or caretaker of a loved one who has suffered a great physical loss, I hope you find a bit of comfort within these pages. Please note that I am NOT a professional social worker, therapist, doctor and any information you find here should be taken to your own physician. I'm merely someone who lost quite a bit due to a bone disease yet gained so much more than I ever thought possible. This is my story of how I found my way....

OUT OF THE WOODS

2003 Conclusion: The Road to Normal

Mental Health Resources

Government Links

Support Links

Health Links

Terri Schiavo

MRSA

My Favorite Links

Terri's Memorial Page

Hi! My name is Sue and I've worn many hats during the 45 years I've trekked this earth. My current being the most challenging. Over the past 9 years I've undergone 20 bone reconstructive surgeries due to a disease called Avascular Necrosis (AVN) (a/k/a osteonecrosis) and approximately 20+ more from to a chronic infection I contracted commonly known as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant staph aureus) in 1994 during a stay at a rehabilitation center. In addition, my marriage of 14 years fell apart. My life as I knew it slipped through my hands.

I spent several years bedbound, in and out of the hospital, unable to walk or even take care of my most basic needs. Pain seemed to the only constant in life. I lost my job, my independence, my car, my friends, and almost, my house.   Things seemed bleak for quite a while and I had no sense of direction.

After a long inner struggle, I found the courage to reclaim my life. From somwhere deep inside, I found the courage, to leave an unhealthy marriage, take what little Social Security Disability income I had and found a 'barrier free' (wheelchair accessible) apartment complex. Four years ago I embarked on a new life and began my quest to reclaim my independence.

It's taken time, patience, support, a lot of physical therapy, faith in myself and a ton of self-advocacy to get where I am today. So for those of you who think there's no light at the end of the tunnel or that the light is an on coming train, don't give up!

There's not many "How To" books or manuals published* for people who find themselves suddenly disabled or diagnosed with a serious health issue. And as much as I'd like to say you should put your faith into the medical community, they really don't have all the answers. The majority of doctors are not familiar with local or state agencies and their programs. And they're only vaguely familiar with Federal programs. For supportive and accurate information, you need a good social worker to assist you.   It's my hope that some of my experiences and the information provided in this website will empower you to find your way of the woods.

If you want to read about my experience, please click here:

                  "OUT OF THE WOODS"

* I'm in the process of writing a novel about my experience with the hope that one day my struggle may help another person similarly situated

Man, this is a real bad picture. In fact, I look downright simple here. Let's see if I can get a better shot. Hold on.....

Okay!! Success - much better picture. Almost bionic!! Confused? If not, keep reading, you'll get there.

Please note: I began the design of "Out of the Woods" in December, 2001. It's been a therapeutic outlet for me and I've met such wonderful people around the globe who have read my story. The support, encouragement and information I received are unparalleled to any other experience in my life. Well, except for one:

January 20, 2003, I had my 51st surgery. A replacement to my left hip. After 11 years of being in a wheelchair, I'm walking once again! It's not only a dream come true -- it's a miracle.

If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone! Please read my conclusion:

TO ALL HOLLYWOOD PRODUCERS AND PUBLISHERS PLEASE NOTE:

It has recently come to my attention that the e-mail links within this site were bouncing from my Yahoo account from January 2003 to March 2005. If you sent me an e-mail during that time and I never responded, you probably think I'm a rude bitch. I am - but that's beside the point!

I have updated all of the e-mail links throughout this site so if you'd like to contact me, you can rest assured that I'll receive it. Oh, unless of course I've croaked which will make the whole point moot, anyway. Right? Of course, I'm right! ;)

E-MAIL SUE