Guided by Love

Feeling Grateful: A Little Reflection on Healing, Help and My Dad

The past several weeks have been a journey - one filled with patience, healing and learning to accept help. After my eye surgery, my vision is still slowly recovering. My autoimmune condition makes the healing process much slower than usual, everyday tasks - especially driving - aren’t something I can safely do on my own right now and that’s where my dad comes in.

Every week, without a moment of hesitation, he takes me shopping so I can pick up the things I need. What used to be simple errands have become challenges: the bright store lights that feel like needles in my eyes, the blurry price tags and product descriptions I struggle to read and the overwhelming movement of a busy store. When shoppers rush past me or brush by impatiently - as if everyone should be able to see the world the way they do - it’s easy to feel invisible or like my disability is somehow an inconvenience to others, but my dad never lets me feel that way.

He guides me through the aisles, gently steering me out of the way of carts and crowds, describing items, reading labels for me and helping me make choices I can’t visually confirm myself. In those moments, I’m essentially moving through the store as a “blind” version of myself and he is my eyes. His patience never wavers. His steadiness never falters. He keeps me safe, grounded and cared for in an environment that is far from easy for me right now.

It’s not just the shopping trips. He drives me to every doctor’s appointment, helps me get where I need to be and reassures me when the healing feels slow or frustrating. He shows up - not just physically, but emotionally, with the kind of support that lifts the weight from my shoulders.

I know how lucky I am. Not everyone has a parent who can rearrange their life to meet them where they are. Not everyone has someone who will patiently walk at their pace, shield them from bright lights or advocate for them silently in crowded spaces.

Healing can be uncomfortable and unpredictable, especially when chronic illness is part of the journey, but in the middle of those challenges are these bright, unmistakable moments that remind me of the love surrounding me. My dad has been one of the brightest parts of this season.

So today, I wanted to pause and put my gratitude into words. I am thankful - deeply, overwhelmingly thankful - for a father who guides me, protects me and makes sure I never feel alone in this process. Even while my vision is taking its time to return, one thing remains perfectly clear: I am blessed to have him.