Like some of my other Benchers, this has been a rough year as far as health goes. Even at that, I consider myself fortunate in so many ways—my health issues are relatively short-term, I continue to be able to write, and I feel so fortunate to be a part of this group.

I am thankful for my friends and family. It’s been a tough year with my husband passing, and I couldn’t have gotten through it without everyone’s support.

2024 was a rough year healthwise, so besides family and friends, I’m thankful for having two back surgeries in the rear mirror and having rehabilitated fully. Now, I’m appreciative of being able to travel and to lift and hug grandchildren.

I am thankful for a healthy, supportive family that all lives locally—within a 25-minute drive to my apartment—except for my granddaughter, who is going to college a mere three hours away. However, this year, we’re thankful that our grandson has accepted a position as a mechanical engineer for a firm in New York City, which is only a three-hour flight away.

The first eight or so months of 2024 were tough, starting with hernia surgery and ending with a cancer diagnosis and more major surgery. But after six rounds of chemo, I am thrilled to say that currently I am cancer-free! I’m thankful for a return to health and for the constant support of my friends and family during this time. And props to my team of doctors, as well!

After years of having my family spread across the country, it is a huge relief that we are all settled now on or near the east coast. That means we can have whole family gatherings more than once a year. I’m thankful for readers and fellow writers. We are all in this together!

I’m thankful for my family, my friends, and everyone’s good health. The pandemic made me realize that you can never take anything for granted.