Dear Editor:

I am happy to have life returning to its usual rhythm after an unexpectedly eventful spring!

You may already have seen me around town doing errands with Kathryn, at school picking up Riley and Matthew, or at home mowing the lawn, and while I continue to work on out-patient therapy, my recovery from the cerebellar stroke is nearly complete.

I am fortunate to have received excellent medical care from St. Andrews Hospital, Boothbay Region Ambulance, Maine Medical Center and New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland to allow me to move on from this event so successfully.

Beyond the medical world, the care our family received from relatives and friends truly carried us all through the days and weeks of my illness. The outpouring of support was tremendous, and we will be forever grateful for the consideration, kindness and generosity that was bestowed upon us.

It would be impossible to list all of the people who stopped by to see Kathryn, Riley, and Matthew; provided food, financial support, and gift cards; sent get-well cards and emails; placed encouraging phone calls and Facebook messages; cared for the kids while Kathryn was with me; helped out with housework and yard work; and gave us moral support, prayers; and well-wishes.

You all are so truly thoughtful, and please know that your support was of immeasurable help to our family.

Finally, I would like to thank my fellow firefighters and friends who put on a wonderful benefit dinner for me, and thank you to all those who attended and supported it. It was a wonderful occasion to return home to.

I always knew I was lucky to live in a small town, but now I know for sure, because I have been on the receiving end of the caring nature of our community.