My life slapped into perspective

Usually I'll offer the "off topic" note for a post like this but in this case, it is far from it.

In all these years I've met stunning heroes I wouldn't have had a chance to meet other than the simple fact I am involved with veterans. Most of the people I meet put me to shame doing far more than I do but without a public voice. Top that off with most of them do not want attention for what they do instead of what they are doing it for. Carol Gambill is one of those quiet heroes.

Most of the time she's out with her husband Russ raising money to build a house for a combat wounded veteran so their lives can be more comfortable. Dedication beyond belief! Carol was at the Veterans Reunion in Melbourne when I made it out there on Saturday, whining about how tired I was from the party the night before. Carol, as usual, stood there with a big smile on her face telling me I needed to have some fun once in a while.

Now I read what else happened while Carol was spending time surrounded by the veterans she loves! The woman she wants to help is not a veteran as you'll read but this goes to show that people who care don't stop caring when someone outside of their "group" needs someone.

Russ and Carol Gambill

Homes for Our Troops Volunteers
Homes For Our Troops
Florida Veterans Network

From: Carol Gambill
Subject: My life slapped into perspective

All right. This weekend I had my life slapped into perspective. Not only did I volunteer in my typical handing out information at events regarding 'Homes for our Troops', which builds and remodels homes for the severely wounded veterans but that is another story in itself and will try to stay focused and tell you about an extraordinary lady with whom I met.

Lois Search hasn't lost the fervor for life even from problems at a very young age. A "little person" as they are called and now for whatever reason in a wheelchair. Whether she was born ridden in wheelchair was never disclosed and I wasn't about to ask. I look past that fact knowing anyone of us could have been born no different. Lois begins to speak to me with her request as I stand with a flyer in my hand in front of the 'Homes for our Troops' booth. For some reason, I quickly hide the flyer behind my back and bend down to her height of two maybe three feet to listen more intently. I realize then that she has a oxygen tube that goes into her nose for her breathing. I focus on her words and lightly swallow back the discomfort of seeing it all. I look into her kind face and can't stop having the compassion that God would want us to have. To love our brother and sister.

As she hands me cards with the information (more like computer paper cut into the size of cards) and with small hands barely able to work effectively, it makes me wonder just how it would be to cut the paper? My mind drifted in thought in how difficult it would be to just get up every morning. The difficulty of taking care of oneself, showering or bathing, dressing then getting yourself into your wheelchair.

I ask her if I could walk around with her to hand them out. She is no doubt an inspiration as we walk around... her in wheelchair and me, feeling a bit guilty because I could. I talk with Lois and ask her how she got to Wickham Park. She tells me she rode the city transit bus from her house just a couple miles away. Crazy, 'cause if it took that much effort every day I would likely be a bit disillusioned with life and become so depressed I wouldn't go anywhere. Yes, she truly made me realize what a weak person I am.

Lois and I continue handing out the pieces of paper and she never once asks for money or any food but simply asked for a one single vote. A vote on the "Mobility Awaeeness Month" link on the internet so she may be able to pursue her independence with chances of winning a new van. Amazing, the humbleness, pride that has to be held and bravery, not to just speak on your behalf but to get up every day to face struggle.

Lois, you're a special Lady!

Take a look at the youtube video Lois Search Video with Lois telling more about herself but says nothing about her spirited independence, honesty, and adversaries--only that she would truly like to win! So please don't forget to vote for Lois Search on this link: Lois Search.

She currently has 1672 votes and deadline is May 13th 2012 so lets get her that van!

Carol Gambill Author of the 'Breaking Out Series'