Dear Editor:

I would like to express my greatest gratitude and thanks to everyone who has supported, encouraged, helped, and expressed their love for me during my recovery.

A huge thanks to EMTs Robbie, Katie and Tony for their quick response and amazing efforts keeping me stable in transit to Miles Memorial Hospital. The Miles' trauma and surgical team was amazing and thank you doesn't seem enough. To the nursing staff, CNAs and each caregiver involved in my recovery, thank you.

A huge thank you to my closest support group: my phenomenal boyfriend, Daniel, my mom Beth, Becky, Margaret and Robyn. They are my constant, everyday check-ins.

I am beyond blessed to live in such an amazing community and am thankful for every message of hope and encouragement that I have received and, I know, will continue to receive.

Everyone has greatly contributed to my healthier state of mind and ongoing healing process. Although I was scared to come home and face people that I scared, worried and hurt, and face the judgment from others who don't know me, my fears were immediately eased by the open arms, amazing hugs, love and support from everyone.

I am home, happier and healthier than I have been in two years. I am grateful beyond words and love all my amazing supporters. I am proud to call this community my home.

To all the people out there who have slipped through the cracks — advocate for yourself and your need for help from everyone. Do not allow yourself to become an unnecessary situation like me. You are worth it.

Brandi Arsenault

Boothbay