It’s been a whirlwind of a year. Seriously, 2021 moved at an unbelievable pace. I honestly didn’t realize how much actually happened this year until I took the time to browse through the photos on my phone. What a year! And to think that my phone photos only captured a portion of the happenings in 2021. You should try it. I mean it, just sit for a few minutes and take a look at the photos on your phone. If yours are like mine, you’ll see happy moments and sad ones, some victories and some defeats, birthday celebrations and homegoings. Some of your photos may make you laugh while others a little melancholy. Reminiscing can be both liberating and humbling.
In this edition of IMARA Woman Magazine, we’re sharing a variety of stories from 2021. Before we race to the start of a new year, it’s good to take time to reflect on how and why we made it through this one. Many families have faced serious health challenges in 2021, and wondered if they would make it. Alzheimer’s disease impacts African-Americans and Hispanics at higher rates than other ethnic groups. If you’re a caregiver or have a friend or loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease, daily routines can seem insurmountable but help is available (page 8).
With the Census data completed, new voting districts for the 2022 elections in SC were decided earlier this month for local and state offices, but the news for voters in SC House Districts is not good (page 12). And, after enduring pandemic shut-downs for most of last year, COVID-19 vaccines were released in early 2021 and allowed us to safely start reconnecting with family and friends. A small group of recent retirees were overjoyed to get back to in-person visits and formed a book club with a greater purpose (page 22).
On a personal note, Paul and I are delighted to share highlights from one of the brightest moments of our year, the wedding of our daughter, Kanita (page 24). We are more than grateful for every blessing in 2021, both big and small. Even with all the year’s challenges, the good days always outweighed the bad days. So, as we look forward to 2022, let’s be thankful for the sunshine and the rain.
Be Blessed, Wendy