Interview & Success Story by James Louchen, Self-Advocate Coordinator

 

Making changes in your life are not always easy and sometimes a bit scary. Carol Grabbe realized she had come to a point in her life where she had to make an extremely difficult decision. Carol shared her story so others can feel empowered if they need to make a big change in their lives.

 

Carol had been in a romantic relationship for 28 years. She realized she needed to make a very difficult decision to end her relationship so she could focus on herself and make the positive changes in her life that would make a difference in her emotional, physical, and mental health & well-being. Carol shared that it was really tough in the beginning because she was super sad and did a lot of crying. Carol said “Thankfully I have a wonderful support system including my family and friends. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them. I have my cat Smokey here with me and she keeps me company every single day. I have always had my parents by my side and have been very close with my father throughout the years. As I have been healing from this breakup it has brought me even closer with my mother and we have had time to rekindle our relationship, which means a lot to me.”

 

Making this change in her life has resulted in positive outcomes that she is very proud of sharing. Carol says, “I feel stronger and am becoming more independent.” She has moved into her own place that is a 2-bedroom, 2.5 bath huge apartment that she is taking care of all by herself. She is very proud to share that she has also lost a lot of weight and has had fun purchasing an ENTIRE new wardrobe! She is eating better, exercising and participating in daily SAC tranquility meetings at work which helps her stay relaxed. 

 

Carol was in her relationship with her partner Ray for 28 years.  They met August 12, 1991 at Aetna where they both worked together and developed feelings for each other. Carol said, “Ray is such a great guy. He had a great sense of humor which I liked a lot.” Ray always supported her, both working and in life. Carol made a commitment to be in this relationship for the long run but over the years she knew deep down what she had to do. 

 

Carol shared, “After 28 years of being with this man I have realized how much of an impact he has had in certain aspects of my life. For example, how he would always tell me beauty comes from within not from the outside. I didn’t recognize my strengths and I had low self-esteem. Ray helped me realize how much of a great person I really am. I struggled with self-esteem.  Since we broke up, once in a while I experience low times, but I take it day by day. I find that I am much happier, a better person, and the proof is in the pudding! I love shopping for my new wardrobe. I am a single, strong, beautiful, independent, thriving woman!” Carol wants everyone to know they can be their own person and be empowered to live the life they want. Carol wants people to know, “To anyone who is going through a similar situation, don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and do what’s best for you! Speak up and speak out!”