Laurie's Second Chance with Saving Grace Story!

Second Chance is a great reason to get out of bed!

My name is Laurie Thomas and I live in Downers Grove, Illinois. I am a former teacher and graduated from Northern Illinois University, in 1983 with a BA in elementary and special education. I’m constantly amazed reading Diane’s Facebook wall posts, the issues that she has gone through personally, with family and how she was there at the end for her Mom, best friend Jan, Jan’s husband Dave, and last but not least, Diane’s precious service dog Gracie during her cancer ordeal. I know that Diane is the "real deal" and to see that kind of love pouring out, even after all she has gone through, is exceptional. Diane’s life experiences help us all to keep our own pain in proper perspective and to realize we can help others to find God and bring them closer to Him no matter what tough times we may be experiencing. We just need to be willing to reach out.

Shortly after I met Diane online, I was recovering from a hysterectomy and a blood clot when she surprised me with a gift of hope and encouragement by way of a SCwSG “Love Kit.” It was exciting to receive her books, a t-shirt, the card, bookmark and Gracie baby. Her autobiography, “God Made Only One Of Me” inspired me to use my own hard times for good and it was nice to know that there was a group out there and people I’ve never met in person who cared about what I was going through. This made me feel special and loved!

We became fast friends and I wanted to join the team to help her and SCwSG to “spread the love.” The way she has struggled and yet overcomes serious daily challenges brings healing to my soul. Diane helps me realize that I, too, can "be strong and courageous" – words Diane often posts in her messages. I see Diane and SCwSG team members as compassionate and loving people. Each member takes time daily to pray for one another as well as others who are going through tough times. And anyone who understands what a gift a 2nd chance can be is welcome to join the team and share their gifts and talents to help hurting people and animals. 

Diane's goal, as the leader, is to help make your dreams come true. She is helping make mine come true by allowing me to write, share encouraging prayers, help manage the fan Facebook pages, and to share my rhyme – some thoughts and lessons to be taught: Freestyle writer, wanting to make the world brighter, a freedom fighter. I hope to help others understand Attention Deficit Disorder and the challenges people with ADD have in a world that too often doesn’t. Ready to shine God's bright light and share that helpful insight with what I write.

My interests include: church, photography, writing, arts and crafts, scrapbooking, community fests, volunteering and traveling. My Mom is from England where I taught students. I am blessed with many lovely family memories.

Thank you Diane for caring enough to reach out to me, send me a “Love Kit” and welcome me to your amazing team at Second Chance with Saving Grace. The best is yet to be, I do believe.

GO TEAM, GO!!