My name is Delaney Parker. I live in upstate New York and I get to be the mom of two terrific kids who enjoy my goofy shenanigans on the daily. My house is full of pets from furry and four legged to endangered aquatic salamanders. If you come to my house, I will feed you too much and make you laugh until your sides hurt. I am also a person navigating Multiple Sclerosis.
When I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, gratitude was definitely not what came to mind. Expletives and threats to the universe, definitely. Gratitude took time. Sixteen years in, I have an arsenal of curses and smart mouth comments. I also have an enormous wealth of gratitude. My diagnosis forced me to take better care of myself physically, emotionally and mentally. It has helped me find strength I did not know I could muster. Endurance through the pain and patience with myself and others. I have had to come to terms with my need for control. Likewise it has shown me the gift in letting go of preconceived expectations of myself, others and situations.
It is important for people to know that although a person may have disabilities, they are more than medical equipment or prescriptions. Yes, a patient or handicapped person. But also a person with the desire to feel whole and respected not despite but inclusive of the adaptations their health requires. Which is what led me to write my first novel, Grace and then the sequel, Envy.
Turning fifty has been a delightfully messy adventure. Two goals were to have my second book out and to be cast as an extra on the Gilded Age. I have done both and so much more. May even squeeze in an open mic night.