I was finally enjoying the sun, the garden, and the wildlife in the summer at home. My peer counselor Don had asked me to speak the anniversary of the signing of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) rally being held at the courthouse square in Greensburg, PA which was only a few miles from where I lived and my hometown. I was absolutely thrilled and flattered by his invitation and was preparing on line since I wasn’t quite clear exactly all the ADA encompassed. Since the event was being held July 17th, 2009, I had a few weeks to write my 5 to 15 minute speech and after growing out of my backward nature I really wasn’t nervous about getting up at a microphone in front of everyone either. I truly was looking forward to the event.
This was another time I genuinely wanted my family to be there to hear me speak but NOT ONE showed up and I can’t stress this enough because they ALL live in the area, some within walking distance!!! I made certain to call and let my mother know what I doing and how much it would mean to me if my sisters and brothers’ in law, my niece and my great nephews, and my mom could be there to cheer me on and visit some of them for first time in YEARS. There would be no long drive out to my house, uncomfortable visit with my fiancée, no worries about guns being in my home, or any other countless excuses.
Happily, my adopted parents were there, Eric’s parent’s who have been to every function, birthday, Easter, AND Christmas because they know how difficult it is for us to get out. They would even try and stop by once a week just for a visit. His parents have taught me what family values, marriage, and caring for a sick loved one REALLY means. They are the only family I’ve known for at least 3 years. My mom was the only one who did try to visit as much as she could until the last year or so. She is in her 80’s now and it is hard for her drive out here alone. ( to be continued)
I think that you probably meant to type the 10th anniversary and not the 100th?
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