I Will Return Strong

(A note from Amelia Lubrano-Farrel)

I was absent last night from reConnect class because I traveled to Gainesville with my friend of 31 years, Toni. Toni has just suffered through 2 rounds of chemotherapy and one of radiation for breast cancer, when she developed a speech and swallowing problem. She was sent to Shands hospital for a diagnosis and she got the worst-ALS. This is the same disease my youngest son died from last September. I was devastated and could not face class. But I will return strong next week. I spent last night asking "Why". I'm not going to get an answer. God does not explain. My friend Connie says that God prepared me to take care of Toni, who has no family at all, no husband, boyfriend , children to help her through this. I do not want to lose my friend, too, but I know I will. The time I spend with her and with God during this time will be well spent. I was with her when she got the news and she fell into my arms and we cried together. The disease has already taken her voice and I will be her voice. Prayer and fellowship are both needed by me now. I wanted to share this story with you because last night I was angry with God again and told him so. And again I asked Him "Why me?" But it isn't about me. It's about God and Toni. I'm just the facilitator. That is my purpose.

Amelia Lubrano-Farrell
"The difficult and troubled path I have traveled has led me to this place to give my heart to others in need,which is the highest attainment man can have and will lead me to everlasting grace."