November’s neighbor is Mrs. Joann Morgan. At first glance, she is your typical mother of three, but her story is anything but typical. Joanne, a lifelong resident of Bolivar, is 59 years old and has been married to Larry Morgan for 37 years. In recent years, Joann has faced the tragic passing of a daughter-in-law and a son, after which she assumed the care of three of her grandchildren. During this time, she, herself, was diagnosed with cancer. She also faced the passing of two sisters whom she loved dearly. Earlier this year, her husband was involved in a terrible motor vehicle accident and spent months in physical rehabilitation. Larry was just recently released to continue his recovery at home with the family.
While we all experience adversity in our lives from time-to-time, it is our response to adversity that truly demonstrates who we are. Joann’s response was, “Prayer, lots and lots of prayer. God gives me strength; I simply cannot do it on my own. I am thankful for all that I have, and I am blessed,” she said. Joann’s full story was featured by Mayor McTizic at the 2019 Mayor’s Charity Ball.
As we journey into the holiday season, let us remember Joann’s story. While her story is one wrought with adversity, pain, and suffering, it is truly an awe-inspiring story of steadfast faith, undeniable hope, and unconditional love; but the greatest of these is love.
If you see Joann out and about, be sure to say HELLO! If you see Mayor McTizic and I out and about, you may be our next featured neighbor!
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