Natalie Renee Long Instagram – The ups and downs of life can happen all at once. I’m getting married to @toddjawesome next week and I’m so happy and excited about it. I’m also going through the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced. In May, shortly after @toddjawesome and I got engaged my Dad was diagnosed with ALS. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the disease, it is terminal. ALS patients lose muscle function causing them to lose the ability to walk, move, talk, breathe and swallow. Watching my dad go through this is devastating. My parents have been married for almost 50 years. My mom has taken on the role of care taker for my dad who is more than twice her size. This has been overwhelmingly emotionally, physically and mentally draining for her. It has also taken an enormous toll on their financial situation. They’re using the retirement that my parents were meant to live off of for the rest of their lives leaving them in a horrible position. If you are able, please consider giving to the go fund me my sister and I set up for them. (Link in bio) Every dollar is a huge blessing.
I am getting through this by cherishing every second I have with my Dad. This situation has opened us up to some beautiful, connecting moments that I don’t think I would have had otherwise. There truly is light in the darkest of times and soaking up that light when I can is getting me through. Concentrating on the good has always been a huge part of my message, and has never been more important for me. You don’t have to ignore the bad and push down painful feelings to see the good. Just like the ups and downs in life, they can exist at the same time. | Posted on 07/Oct/2024 15:36:53
