Well folks, I did it. I am now a licensed physical therapist in the state of Washington!
This dream, goal, vision, desire, began after my first child was born- about 15 years ago. She was very sick and was in the hospital and there were so many kind and giving people there that helped us through her illness and death, that I just knew I wanted to do something in the health care field that could help people. I was devastated. So, I decided to volunteer at the physical therapy department in the hospital at Fort Jackson, SC.
I loved it.
I decided right then and there that is what I wanted to do when I grew up.
And so began the journey of raising a family and attending school whenever I could fit it into my schedule.
And then the divorce. I thought my dream was over. How could I possibly continue with school being a single mom with two little ones? This wasn't how it was supposed to be (per my plans, apparently not according to the Big Guy)..... A good friend of mine encouraged me to continue with my dream. So, after much deliberation between my parents and my former husband's parents, I decided to move forward.
And that I did, despite many issues including a little mental break down from the stress and emotional state I was in from the divorce. I finally got my BA, then I was accepted to the University of Puget Sound's DPT program. More road blocks and then I graduated.
I finally graduated.
More bumps in the road (minor compared to what I had been through) and then I heard from the Department of Health- I passed the licensing exam.
Much celebration ensued. Champagne and chocolate with my co workers. Dinner and flowers from my boss and her family. Giant 5 ft roses delivered to the office. Pennant flags to hand over my desk. Cards, more chocolate, and lots of hugs and tears.
My favorite moment..... hugging Melissa for what seemed like an eternity after we both screamed and then stepping back and saying with tears in my eyes, "I guess I can do it."
Yes, people, I can do it. Perseverance. Tears. Depending on family and friends. Two kids who love me and have forgiven me for my short comings as a mother. Two parents who have given me every opportunity to succeed. In-laws that never gave up on me, even when I am certain they wanted to toss me to the curb. My body for dealing with the many extra pounds I have put on in the last 5 years. Prayers, lots and lots of prayers.
Thank you to all of you who helped me, yelled at me, prayed for me, rolled your eyes at me, hugged me, wiped my tears, picked up the slack when I dropped the ball and who are still here in my life. Even those that are still not in my life, but who came and went during this time- even you played an important part of my learning, growing, and of who I am today- thank you.
I love you all!
And hopefully I will have more available time and energy to continue this blog..... I have to do something with my time now.....
**Oh yes, Shelleyand Kat, the big "A" is on my list of things to do.... I am ready now. :) **
xoxoxo
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