No one survives life’s toughest challenges alone. Sometimes we have our family, friends and medical professionals by our side to help us. And sometimes, the most important thing we can do is learn from other stories of survival. When we meet people who have not only experienced something similar but actually came through it better and stronger, it provides hope and inspiration. We invite you to Share your Story of “Surviving & Thriving.”  Your words could be just the thing someone needs to keep moving forward. Share the gift of hope.

Submitted by Kathleen Neace:

On October 28, 2009 my husband of 12 years, Bob Neace, had a fatal heart attack at 45 years of age. He left me a widow at 39 with four boys under 10 years old to raise.

Bob was both a solo artists and a member of The Rock Foundation, and when he passed, the Central Florida music community and his fans came together for a tribute concert to help us get back on our feet. I had been a stay-at-home mom since our boys had been born, and I had to survive his death, comfort my kids, regroup and re-plan our futures.

Now 3 1/2 years later I am working full time, supporting my children both financially and emotionally, and just recently got engaged. I am ready to start the next chapter of our lives and we are all happy and not only surviving our tragedy but thriving as well!

Thanks for sharing, Kathleen!