Oonaugh Wood
Oonaugh was nominated by her long time friend, Jeannie. She is living with MS and is an absolute inspiration, as she now raises her grandkids who are living with additional needs and are on the autism spectrum. She has had a huge learning curve with them and feels this has helped her to be more understanding to other parents struggling raising autistic kids. Recently after her dad passed away from cancer, they renovated their home so her mom could move in with them…amazing woman!
Words of wisdom and empowerment from Oonaugh:
I asked Oonaugh what she feels has been the most valuable lesson she has learned in 2020, and this is what she had to share.
“I believe that everyday I am learning lessons in my life, and I try to seek the positive in everything. As I seek the positive, I find joy in the chaos.
For instance, my father was in the hospital and passed away during Covid lockdown when no one was allowed to visit the hospital. I counted the many blessings during this time. We were called in to the hospital in early April. and given bracelets for end of life visitation. Dad stayed alive for 8 more weeks! We visited daily, singing, telling stories and laughing a lot. This also brought joy to many other patients in the ward as they heard all the laughter and joy.
My mother was unable to visit him so we helped her FaceTime him to say final goodbyes. Her apartment block was not allowing visitors, however we were given special permission because of the circumstances. God was in control and we are so very grateful.
2020 was very hard for so many people and everyone has a story full of burden and frustration. I learned that people don’t necessarily want a solution to the problem but to be able to vent to someone willing to listen. Putting my faith and trust in God to take these burdens and give people peace of mind, including me, has been my source of strength. This is especially true now that my mother is living with us.
The most valuable lesson learned in 2020 was not making plans for anything. This was the first year I made a vision board and started a new business. I’m glad that I have a good sense of humour because neither of those worked out. My husband hasn’t worked since February as a speaker/entertainer yet we still have our home and eat well. God continues to provide for us in many ways and we continue to praise Him and trust Him.”
I asked Oonaugh to share her message of strength and empowerment for other women to start 2021 with a positive mindset, and this is her inspiring response.
“My message of strength and encouragement comes from the Bible”;
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34).
Concern and worry are not the same thing. Concern acknowledges that something needs careful thought. Worry is given to consuming trepidation.
In conclusion…wake up every morning and decide to live with an Attitude of Gratitude. Smile more, laugh more, and help people more. The more you do, the sooner you will Find Joy in the Chaos of your life.”
WOW! What an incredible honour to connect with Oonaugh and learn more about what makes her phenomenal. It is even more of an honour to be able to share her story with you. Thank you for reading Oonaugh’s story, and let’s keep supporting and empowering each other as we continue our journey to live our best life!
OONAUGH YOU ARE PHENOMENAL!!!