Caring for Colleen

Caring for Colleen
“ Set your heart on doing good. Do it over and over again and you will be filled with joy.”( Buddha)

Sometimes the helpers need help too. My lifelong friend Colleen Molloy Ouellette is in need of our prayers and support. Colleen had surgery on April 5, 2021 at Mass General Hospital for a Cerebral Hemorrhage . Over the last few weeks she has endured multiple surgeries, seizures , blood clots and Pneumonia. She has made a few steps forward and then unfortunately steps back. She is currently in the Respiratory Acute Care Unit where the dedicated doctors are managing all complications.Colleen has been able  to respond by opening her eyes and squeezing the hands of nurses and her amazing husband Frank. She is believed to be only at the beginning of a very long and difficult road to healing and recovery. Once her medical needs stabilize she will need intensive therapy at a rehabilitation center and eventually at home as well. Obviously crystal balls are not available and there is no way to predict the extent of Colleen’s physical concerns or  how high the mountain of medical bills may accumulate during her hospitalization and beyond. I am asking on behalf of two people (who mean the world to me ) to please consider making a contribution to assist them during this difficult time. Colleen has spent her entire life uplifting others. She is a true example of service and giving. Over the years she has worked as an E.M.T. , Auxiliary Police Officer, in a residential program for adolescents and most recently at the Don Orione Nursing Home in East Boston.
       Colleen is an exceptional storyteller who believes in the power of laughter. She believes that troubles can be eased at least temporarily when helping people smile. Her super power is her ability to connect heart to heart instantly. She is warm, compassionate and kind. Colleen does not hesitate to offer assistance and nothing is too big a request in the name of family and friendship.
       Colleen and Frank live their lives to the fullest and are always up for an adventure together. Some people are truly made for each other, brought together by God. They not only came together as best friends to make each other better, but their marriage does that for all who know them. Frank has been by her side through all that life has delivered and this is no exception. He has more than proven his devotion and deep love they share. He plays her favorite songs , dances for her and is there to hold her hand. He is updating us daily and is determined to be strong for her. Frank will do whatever it takes for her today and always.
        If you have had the pleasure of spending a few minutes with them then you understand how blessed I am to call them family. Colleen heals those around her with her joy filled light.Now it is time for her to be on the receiving end of our generosity . If at this time you are not able to contribute financially please know that your good thoughts and continued prayers will make a real difference.
        May God bless you in abundance. May His angels watch over and guide you. On behalf of Colleen, Frank and all who love them I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

4/30 correction:  Colleen’s diagnosis was originally described as Brain Aneurysm but the actual diagnosis is Cerebral Hemorrhage.

Submitted by Laura Keogh Freeman