Everyday People Living Extraordinary Lives - Dianne Osborne

I would like you to meet Dianne Osborne. I’ve known Dianne for a little over 4 years and every time I work with her she inspires me as I watch and marvel at what Dianne pushes herself to do. She is 72 years young and over the last 35 years has gone through more physical trauma then one person should have to endure. Despite her physical limitations she is training up to three times a week and pushing others to get up and start moving. Here is her story:

 

“I’m not to sure why I’m writing this and why James thinks my situation is a great story. I just get up every day like you, go to work at my part time job and then come home to operate my own business doing accounting for small local businesses. I also stay active by walking, being involved in different church groups, try to get into the gym twice a week and workout with James once a week. Again I don’t think I’m any worse off than others but here is a quick list on what has happened to me over the last few decades:

 

1960’s to 1990’s
Two miscarriages
Discovered and removed benign breast tumors
3 major car accidents (none of these were my fault)
Diagnosed with high blood pressure
Diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse
Diagnosed with several herniated and degenerative discs in my neck and mid back

 

2000’s
Diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy
Diagnosed with Gastro esophageal reflux disease
Surgical implant of electro stimulator in my back for pain
Diagnosed with Emphysema
Electro stim unit in my back started to erode and caused infection on my spine
Operation to remove electro stim and 3 months of intravenous antibiotics
Total left knee replacement

 

I don’t like to use any of this as an excuse for not staying active or exercising. I run a monthly Neuropathy awareness group for seniors and another social group gathering for seniors living on their own. I try to keep them aware of new medical advancements and how important exercise is for them no matter what your physical condition. I want to be the example of what you can do, not some old lady that just sits around waiting for things to end.”

 

Every time I’m feeling sorry for myself, I always think of Dianne. I’ve got my little aches, pains and down times like everyone else, but if Dianne can get up and be progressive every day…well to me that’s inspiring.