I have been teaching for one month now since my spring sabbatical and summertime off. I have a reduced load, teaching two courses rather than three. After one month, I can say it is going well, although my colleagues and students may disagree. I teach two sections of EDU 418, Methods and Materials for Teaching Students with Mild/Moderate Disabilities. It is a senior class and we meet at 11:30 am and 1:00 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On various Wednesdays we have department meetings. I serve on committees, meet with students, advise students, and enjoy my time at work very much. So far, I have a helpful driver who gets me there on time and home again safely.
Everyone asks me," how long will you teach?" "You seem more disabled by the ALS?" "Are you tired?" "You know you are eligible for social security disability income?" I know I will need to quit sometime, I just do not know when that sometime will be. Thanks to everyone who makes it possible for me to work, thanks for the encouragement by my family and friends, the smiles of my students, the chats by colleagues, the belief that disability does not need to define everything! Thanks!
Mom,
ReplyDeleteI'm very glad you are teaching again and also that you can now add images to the blog without my help.
Love,
Tim
Hi Deb! I just found out about your blog and couldn't wait to read it. As everything you do, the site is great. Thank you for your openness about ALS and for sharing your ups and downs. It takes courage, but hey, I wouldn't expect less from you.
ReplyDeleteUn abrazo,
Carmen
Tim,
ReplyDeleteI remember all of Dr. G's stories about your help with technology. When I was a senior you helped her put together an amazing power point presentation that brought us all to tears.
Today I am a special education teacher working with students with autism. Your mother was an amazing woman who inspired me in my time at Providence. She will live on in your family and all of the teachers and studuents she touched. My heart is with all the Goesslings at this difficult time.
-Kait W. (PC 2009)
Well said, Kait. Debbie was one of the bravest people I have ever met. We will miss her dearly. As senseless as her passing is, I hope you (Tim, Joe, Sam, Dan) are all super proud of her.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Marcy Zipke, PC
To the Goessling Family,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about Dr. G. She was an amazing professor and person, who touched the lives of so many educators and students. Her strength, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire us all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sara Blanch, PC 2009
Dear Family,
ReplyDeleteI interviewed your mom recently for a paper I had to write for a class. She was a great and inspirational woman. I am very sorry for your loss. During my interview, she spoke very highly of her husband and her kids. It was very touching to see how much she loved and appreciated all that you did for her.
Tom
To The Goessling Family,
ReplyDeletePlease accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Dr. G. She was an amazing woman and a true inspiration. Dr. G always had a kind word for everyone and wanted to be of help in any way she could. I will always remember my time with Dr. G. and all of the encouragement and support that she provided me. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Amelia Sloane (PC 2009)