What a year …
At the end of May 2024, I went on full time disability. For the first time in my adult life, I was not fully employed. I remained engaged as a Microsoft MVP on data platforms by creating a video series on Microsoft Fabric called “Fabric 5”.
The series focused on key architectural principles to be considered when implementing Fabric in your organization. This includes medallion architecture options, security considerations, and business continuity gaps. I started the series using my voice even though I would lose my breath. Along the way, I would start talking with my mask with the help of captions. Eventually, I would use an AI generated voice from Team Gleason to record the videos. I would close out 2024 with a four-video series on business continuity.
That brings me to this year. I started the year in the hospital for most of January and the start of February with pneumonia and breathing problems. During my stay, I had to get a tracheostomy which took away my ability to talk because I also require full time ventilation. After I got home from the hospital, I needed a few months to recover. ALS sucks! As I started getting “back on my feet,” I have worked with my eye gaze system from Tobii Dynavox to communicate, work on my computer, and type. I am using that system to create this blog post.
Now what?
I am going to try to write a couple more blog posts. I need to see if I can create videos. I am working through my new normal and not overextend myself as fatigue is a real issue with ALS. I am excited to contribute as I can. As always, I am thankful for the support and prayers from the data community.
