Congratulations Kathy Glass – our December Rockstar on Richmondmom.com!
When you speak with Kathy Glass, she sounds upbeat, happy and very pleasant. But as you hear more about her story and the challenges she and her family face every day, you begin to wonder how she can keep such a positive attitude and demeanor.
Kathy’s husband was diagnosed with ALS 16 months ago and his condition has steadily declined since that time. Kathy was a part-time employee at KPMG when the news came, but since then she has returned to work full-time to help pay for necessary bills, medications, and equipment.
“It’s hard to imagine how little control we have in this life. God reminds me that everything I have is a blessing and that I do not have control over my life,” Kathy explains. “We have God’s gifts that come like a deck of cards for this life and we make the best decisions and play the hand we’re dealt.”
Dealing with ALS is extremely challenging since no two patients are exactly the same. As the body changes and stops communicating internally with itself, the body weakens at different rates for people. It’s difficult to plan the future because you never know what the next day will bring. Each month becomes the “new norm” according to Kathy.
Kathy and Dave have two children, a son age 13 and a daughter age 9. They have struggled with their father’s illness and have experienced anger and frustration. They have difficulty understanding why this is happening to their father, but Kathy stands firmly beside them and encourages, supports, and helps them deal with it in a loving and positive way.
“I’ve learned that we really can’t sweat the small stuff. I used to worry that everything needed to be in order, dishes had to be washed immediately, clothes had to be cleaned, and toys had to be neatly put away. Now, if we get a game out and don’t finish it before bedtime, we leave it. If the dishes don’t get done because I’m spending time with Dave and the children, then dishes will be there tomorrow,” Kathy laughs as she realizes how life has changed for all of them.
Kathy is blessed that KPMG has been flexible and worked with her to help her transition into full-time employment while dealing with her home situation. She and her husband take frequent trips to Johns Hopkins Hospital and there are appointments somewhere every week. While we were talking, Dave’s doctor called to discuss some updates and changes to medication and Kathy handled the call with ease — then naturally returned to our discussion.
“I still have days when I feel weak and I cry, but mostly I realize that this is our life and we are enjoying our time together. I would trade places with David if I could but that’s not possible. After 18 years together, we know that we are in this together and we are taking care of each other.” Kathy sounds like a young newlywed when she talks about her husband. She also credits her wonderful friends and family for the love and support they give — and without them, she says it would not be possible to do it all.
Her faith sustains her when times get hard and as she says, “I don’t know why this is happening. But one day we will understand.” She has a quiet peace about her when she talks about their situation and she is an inspiration to others.
Managing the challenges of a husband with ALS, and coordinating school and activities for the children while working full-time and taking care of the house can take its toll on anyone. But for Kathy, it’s all in a day’s work. That’s why Kathy rocks!
If you’d like to send Kathy and Dave a word of encouragement and inspiration, they welcome your emails. You can reach them at [email protected]. Your emails will help them navigate the challenging days and weeks ahead.
Congratulations to Kathy who exemplifies what it means to be a Richmond mom!
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