Below are some encouraging words God shared with me.

I am by your side during this journey.

I will never let you walk this journey alone.

I love you more than you could ever imagine.

The healing I have for you is coming.

OC

Today’s a new day! It’s the most wonderful time of the year. We hear that a lot during the holiday season. There are so many parties, and get togethers with family and friends. There are people laughing and saying, ” Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays.” But not everyone is enjoying the most wonderful time of the year. For many, this is the toughest time of the year.

So as we whistle and sing Christmas carols, let us not forget those that are hurting. Slow down enough to see that loved one, that coworker, or stranger who appears to be struggling. Let’s not get so caught up in the parties and gift giving that we miss those who are dealing with depression or other life issues this holiday season. Take time to reach out and offer a helping hand. ~OC

Anyone who knows me, knows I love music. I have music therapy sessions several times a day. I love all types of music. My musical library is very diverse. We all know how powerful music can be in our lives. Let me share how powerful music can be.

As everyone knows I have been dealing with Parkinson’s for the past 11 years. As the “Gift” that keeps taking has gotten worse, everyday activities have gotten more difficult. One of those activities is shaving. This is something I have been doing since I was a teenager, and it has become a major undertaking. But one day a few months ago, I decided to listen to some music while shaving. To my surprise, shaving was a little easier. There was less knicks and blood involved. I think the music helps me not concentrate so much on the activity of shaving. This revelation has made at least one activity a little easier. The power of music. ~OC

Good morning! Dear God, thank you for being so faithful during my crazy/beautiful journey. Help me to share your faithfulness with others to help encourage them. ~OC

Today’s a new day! This crazy/beautiful journey has taken many winding roads. I cannot always see what’s up ahead, though I desperately look for any kind of signs. So I keep my eyes focused on God’s footprints, who have gone before me. ~OC

Today’s a new day! Our words are powerful, make no mistake. They can inspire and elevate or they can cut down and destroy. A seemingly simple comment, without consideration, can devastate.  Once it’s out there, you can never get it back. ~OC

Today’s a new day! At the end of the day, I just want to be surrounded by true friends having conversations that matter. ~OC

During my crazy/beautiful health journey, I have learned many lessons. Here is one that has truly helped me along my journey.

When seeking answers, be persistent and never give up. Lean on God and trust in Him. ~OC

Today’s a new day! We need to stay calm and listen. If we listen before speaking, our words will be filled with wisdom and compassion. ~OC

My wife, Laura, has been my caregiver for the past 16 years. I believe caregivers have the toughest jobs. As the patient, I know my job. I take my meds, listen to my doctors and take care of myself. Of course there is more, but you get the point. The caregiver’s role is much more complicated. There is no playbook on being a caregiver. At least as a patient, I get some patient pamphlets.

We can never forget the caregivers that are living around us. They could be your neighbor. They could be your coworker, who is not only working a full time job, but is then going home to take care of a loved one. They could be in your own family. They are the unsung heroes. I want to encourage everyone who knows a caregiver, to make sure they are taking care of themselves. Most of the time, they are so focused on caring for their loved one they forget to take care of themselves. Here are a few ways you can help a caregiver in your life.

***Volunteer to sit with their loved one, so they can have some time to themselves.

***Offer to go grocery shopping for them. Or sit with their loved one, so they can go grocery shopping.

***Offer to give their loved one a ride to an appointment. So many caregivers are taking time off from work to take their loved one to doctors appointments, treatments or therapy.

***Offer to clean their house or pay for their house to be cleaned.

***Offer to cook for them. Start a Meal Train.

There are many other ways to help, these are just a few. I encourage everyone to reach out to a caregiver and offer a helping hand. The focus tends to be on the patient and sometimes we forget about the caregiver. Please do not let a caregiver walk the journey alone. ~OC