Giving thanks

Posted on November 27, 2014 by jeffcuz

It’s officially the holiday season. I know that because I turned the radio in the car on today, and the Christmas carols were playing.

As we sit down to celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s time to reflect on what has happened this year and what I’m thankful for.

Karina with J.P. and Paige — Karina visits with J.P. and Paige.

Family is always at the top of the list. I’m thankful for my wife, Paige, and the fact that she remains cancer-free for a fourth year.

I’m thankful that our son, J.P., has had a relatively hospital-free year. I can’t believe how much he’s growing and amazing us every day with the things he can do.

While J.P. has managed to be pretty stable when it comes to his health, we’ve had several other family members who have spent time in the hospital for surgical procedures.

I am extremely grateful that all seem to be doing well and healing as we sit down for our feast.

There will be a new guest at Thanksgiving this year: A four-legged friend, Karina, who was trained at Canine Companions for Independence and joined the family in May.

I’m thankful for this amazing organization and the work they do to give those with disabilities the opportunity to be more independent with the help of these amazing animals.

At the Thanksgiving table last year, we were talking about being matched with a skilled companion dog, and this year we’ll likely talk about having another human in the home.

We’ve been approved for nursing through PSA Healthcare, and we met two of the nurses who will begin helping with the heavy-lifting while I’m working. We’re grateful that we’ve been given this assistance to help with the lifting and care of our growing boy.

I’m thankful for another year of employment to pay the bills and provide the insurance. This year marks 25 years at WESH-TV and Hearst Television Inc.

It’s the only place I’ve worked alongside the local McDonald’s in high school. However, part of my career at WESH was under Internet Broadcasting Inc.

Jeff and Joe Oliver — Jeff with Joe Oliver at the Jim Payne 5K in Sanford.

Speaking of work, I’ve spent much of this year working out. I’m proud to say my journey to physical fitness as helped me shed 40 pounds.

I’ll run the Turkey Trot at Lake Eola on Thanksgiving morning, and in just over a week, I plan to complete my first half-marathon.

But most of all, I’m thankful for my marriage. In just weeks, Paige and I will celebrate our 20th anniversary together.

I can’t say there’s been a dull moment in those two decades. We’ve navigated plenty of detours and always managed to remain focused despite the roadblocks we’ve faced on life’s highway.

I couldn’t have done it without her help, especially when it comes to raising a son with special needs.

Our families have been a tremendous asset over the years both personally and financially, and we’ve found support through some great local therapists, doctors, schools and Florida Hospital for Children.

It’s not a coincidence. We believe God has really set us up for success and carried us through the difficult times.

We’ll do our best to stay focused on the year ahead, and recognize the upcoming holiday season for it’s true meaning.

We wish everyone out there a terrific holiday season from our home to yours.