My View – December 2021/January 2022

For nearly 15 years, I’ve used this column to highlight members of our community for their unending volunteer service. This month, I’d like to get a little closer to home, a little more personal in expressing my thanks to friends and neighbors who’ve been there for my wife, Jo and me.

A few weeks ago, Jo called me from her gift shop in downtown Jacksonville—she was on the floor, unable to get up. Turns out, she’d ruptured a disk in her lower back and was in pain like never before.

Having known so many in our community in need of assistance over the years, I uncharacteristically reached-out for help, accepting that as Jo’s caregiver, that help was needed. And it came in bucketloads, reminding me of a favorite saying—“give it out in slices, get it back in loaves.” Without hesitation, Jo and I became the recipients of an outpouring of caring, love and support.

Our friends in the medical field were instrumental in helping navigate uncharted waters with their advice and personal care. This was followed by our personal “meals on wheels” program that resulted in an overflowing refrigerator and freezer! The cards and flowers were bountiful as were the social media prayers, best wishes and messages of hope that propelled Jo through the rough patches. At the shop, Mary Jo and Ellen came to the rescue. I’m happy to report that thanks to successful surgery, Jo’s prognosis for a full recovery is excellent.

I am most grateful to live here and personally thank everyone for their assistance in our time of need in our Small Town with Big Atmosphere!