15 years...

15 years - Seems like a coons age ago but it seems only like yesterday. Today, it has been 15 years since my sister Kathryn passed away. Soon after her funeral, a family friend told me that in one of her last conversations with Kathryn she shared her concerns of me has she sensed that I was unhappy in Victoria, BC. Her wish for me was to be happy. Well that is one thing about Kathryn - she was able to pick up on things in the tone of your voice without hat person saying what is wrong - she was correct I was unhappy in Victoria.

At 23, my first time really away from home and I did find it tough finding my place and make friends. Plus it my first job since graduating from College. It definitely was a challenge for me in my low-self esteem and introverted nature - to stretch that comfort zone. I returned to Victoria and lasted only a month - I returned to Thunder Bay where I stayed for the next 12 years. I had my ups and downs with my mom's almost fatal postoperative complication and my parents divorce shortly afterwards. What an emotional rollercoaster ride that was.

Those 12 years in Thunder Bay - I learned to see that I am a good person and people do like me for who I am. I stepped back to reflect on my profession - I took the first year back to return to College and upgrade my skills in coding and abstracting which got my job at McKellar as a Daycare coder where I stayed until I left Thunder Bay. Learning that it is important to take opportunities to improve your skills so advancements can occur was a great lesson to me. Personally, I got involved with my church in responsibilites that expanded my comfort box - being a MC for the Church Christmas concert (I am not a public speaker and over 100 people attended these concerts); becoming a Sunday School Superientent; a Youth advisor and an assistant to the Church's treasurer; as well as find a "social circle of friends".

Okay - yes I waited until I was 30 to learn how to drive - I so appreciate the freedom it has given me having that skill. My first huge road trip adventure was my move to Calgary!! In addition, I realized I should not be afraid to travel and see different cultures and sights even if you are single. I have had wonderful experiences on bus tours to explore part of the UK and part of Europe. Then one of the major turning points in my life - an Aug morning I received a major disappointment at work which lead me searching the Calgary Health Region's website that same day and there was 3 full time coding jobs!! I learned patience and determination over the next 6 months - 12 applications and then 4 years ago I got a phone call - Calgary wanted an interview - YIPEEEE!!!!

These past 4 years in Calgary have been amazing - professionally and personally. Professionally - how do I describe it? The blinders came off - doors swung wide-open - I finally got my chance - first time in my coding career -becoming an inpatient coder, my final wall came down. I have not looked back really - the workshops, the coworkers I have gotten to know that are becoming good friends; pushing my comfort box and becoming a trainer in daycare AND inpatient coding disciplines. Amazing. And now - here I am on my second time participating in CIHI reabstracting study - what a great way to blend my love to travel and a job I enjoy learning more about (and what other job avenues I could apply for as a Health Information Management Professional). Personally - I have found me (sounds strange I know) - I like who I am and what I can contribute. I am so fortunately to have deepen my relationships with my extended family in Calgary and making new friendships though church and work.

I am sorry that it has taken so long Kathryn - I can finally tell you - I could not be happier than I am now. I feel so loved by the circle of family and friends that I have (my foundation); I am doing things that I never thought I would.

I miss you much my little Magoo. Our great talks at wee hours in the morning and just sharing leading to laughter and tears too. Thanks for being a great sister, Kathryn. Love you and thanks for being there for me too.