Every year on Thanksgiving Day we are challenged to name at least one thing in which we are grateful. This year required absolutely zero pondering, as I knew exactly what I was thankful for...
Valley Hope
This past year, without discrimination, the disease of alcoholism selected Nathan.
For me, who had very little knowledge of addiction, this life-long illness felt scary and overwhelming.
Fortunately, God has placed numerous people and systems of support in our path. Without these amazing people, stories, professionals and facilities, I'm not sure where we would have found hope for the future.
Founded in 1967,Valley Hope provides patient-centered, compassionate care to individuals, families and communities impacted by drug and alcohol addiction. They were extremely helpful as we began to learn about and navigate the illness that impacts our entire world.
This year, Nathan spent 2, 30 day, inpatient stays at Valley Hope in Norton, Kansas. I will forever be grateful for all the staff and patients who have and continue to have a significant impact on Nathan. They provide him with countless resources which assist him in living successfully in recovery.
Nathan's last 30 stay ended on Thanksgiving Eve and I was able to attend his cup hanging ceremony and bring him back to Orleans in time for the holiday.
We do not know where the path will take us from here, but we continue to give thanks, surrender ourselves to God and know that all will be well.
The word gratitude comes from the Latin word gratus, which is also the Latin root of the word grace.
God's grace is indeed free and undeserved.
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