It’s Thanksgiving day today in the USA.

Today is one of those days when the homesickness settles in—when I find myself missing America, my friends, and all the little pieces of life I loved there.

But since today is cold and gloomy here in the southeast of Poland—and moping around usually sends my mood downhill—I’m catching myself early and jumping over to my gratitude list.

Here is what I am grateful for this year:

1. Family

I recently learned that November is a month dedicated to honoring family caregivers. It made me pause, because I receive so much love and support from my own family.

We had ups and downs, moments of tension and disagreements so I never take that for granted.

I’m especially grateful for my steady, grounding marriage.

Both my family and my husband have been such pillars of strength in my life since the CIDP diagnosis.

2. my Doctors and Medical Care

I’m also incredibly grateful for the medical care I receive at Father Pio Hospital in Przemyśl, Poland.

Years ago, one of the neurologists took swift, energetic action and finally solved the riddle of my CIDP. He is one of my fave doctors.

Since then, I’ve been under the watchful care of another wonderful doctor, and I don’t have words big enough to express my gratitude and respect for her skill and dedication.

The entire medical and non-medical team, on the neurology ward who keep everything running like a perfectly tuned Swiss clock.

My therapists from the rehabilitation centre.

Thank you all for your care, your patience, and your unwavering service.

3. Friends

I’m so grateful for my friends. They’re endlessly funny, endlessly supportive, and most of them have been in my life for years. That’s a blessing I never take lightly.

4. Work

I am grateful for my work. Work gives my days a sense of purpose, and the kids I teach always manage to lift my spirits. It’s therapy and fun.

5. Peace

I live in a land shaped by a turbulent, painful history, right on the border of a country now at war. For those of us who call this place home, peace is not just a given—it’s a rare and precious gift, something we cherish because we know it can never be taken for granted.

To my fellow CIDP Warriors

Today, I also want to acknowledge all the CIDP warriors—the strength, resilience, and daily fight you carry with such courage.

Living with this condition is not easy, yet even amidst the struggle, practicing gratitude can bring light and calm into our days.

It reminds us of the love, support, and small joys that help keep us going.

Wishing a Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, no matter where in the world you are!