Motivating Stories from Local Women
Every woman has a story to tell, and no two stories are alike. Meet the women who have persevered through challenges and tribulations and come out the other side stronger than ever.
These unique individuals have seen their fair share of adversity but continue to inspire those around them with the lessons they have learned and their love of life. Read on for a motivating story by a woman who experienced them firsthand.
I know I’m not the only one with a story, but I’m thankful to be able to share mine."
When asked to share my story, I immediately thought, “Which one?” Divorce, the loss of a child, getting laid off, health issues, and weight management all came to mind. I guess anyone who has lived 69 years has a pretty long list. My story’s most significant occurrence was certainly the death of my daughter, Lori, after a six-year battle with leukemia. A desire to make her short life really count and to help other families like ours has fueled my life’s work since 1984.
Volunteering for many causes that helped families of sick children was the route I found eased the pain of losing her; at least, it kept me so busy I didn’t focus on all I had lost. Volunteering for the effort to build a Ronald McDonald House (RMH) in Chattanooga was one of those causes. When I was laid off from a great job with TVA, I knew God was paving the way for me to make my volunteer “job” my real job. Now, 32 years later, I remember how awful it felt to be laid off and how relieved I was when I knew Ronald McDonald House would become my life’s work. I have loved every day of making it possible for families to be together when their child is sick.
Comfort food is part of RMH hospitality, and there’s always something good to eat here. I admit that food has always been my comfort too. I love to eat out with friends and cook and bake, and I often made poor choices during stressful times. About 18 months ago, I joined Weight Watchers and found the online tool so easy. Today I am 65 pounds lighter and still working on the last 10! I even gave away all my larger sizes to make sure I didn’t backslide. A health condition that has plagued me since 2004 has improved to the point that I expect to be “fired” from my doctor at my next visit!
I know I’m not the only one with a story, but I’m thankful to be able to share mine.
Jane Kaylor, Chattanooga
