As shared by Edna Lonergan, OSF

This inspirational story was originally published as "Woman of Heart: Pam" in the Heart to Heart Women Talk newsletter (Summer 2005); it is used with permission. Sister Edna is a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi and is president of St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Drastic Life Changes        A Role Model        Changing Perpectives
In Her Own Words

Changing the face of disability is just one of the goals of Pam Konkel and to me enough to have her stand out as one of the "Woman of Heart." Pam spends three days a week as a client at St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care. She receives health and wellness services including baths, time in the warm water therapy pool, nutritional meals, and so much more. Having her basic needs met allows her to remain living in her own home where she can stay actively involved in the community.

Before being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 8 years ago, Pam was working as a registered nurse on a surgical unit helping to improve the lives of those in need. She was married and a homeowner. Unfortunately, when Pam became sick, her needs became more than her husband chose to handle and he left her, eventually filing for a divorce. Pam's physical health is rapidly declining while her mind is as active and creative as always.

A Role Model

Pam is so much more than a client at St. Ann Center. She is a role model to children and adults alike. She helps in any area where she is needed and although some would consider many of the tasks as menial work, Pam eagerly participates with a smile on her face knowing how much the center's staff needs her help.

On most days Pam reaches out to a 52-year old woman named Mary Ellen, who at age 48 was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Both this woman and Pam worked as RN's before being diagnosed. Mary Ellen, still aware of the ravaging effects of her disease, reaches out to Pam where she finds an understanding heart. Pam's support and friendship are all this woman can now look forward to.

Changing Perceptions

A year ago Pam enrolled at Mount Mary College to pursue a Masters degree in Gerontology. When writing a paper for class Pam stated, "When I tell people I am going to school, I have heard, 'you are an inspiration,' or 'I can't believe it!" Why not? I might have a difficult time speaking and my legs might no longer work, and yes, I am confined to a wheelchair, but these facts don't mean that my mind no longer works! I am no different than the other students who are at school to receive an education."

Success for Pam would be in changing people's perception of her as an individual and from that change their perception of all people with a disability. To do this Pam remains actively involved as a volunteer at the Salvation Army's summer school where she shows the children that even though she sits in a wheelchair, she can still fix their lunch and be their friend, giving them the comfort and support they so desperately need. At St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care, Pam continues to support and befriend people with disabilities far greater than her own.

It is Pam's womanly heart that will continue to change the face of disabilities in a more personal, human way. Pam ended her article by stating, ... "by doing things that 'normal' people do in my little corner of the world, maybe someday society will see disabled not as 'I can't' but as 'I can.'"

In Her Own Words