www.katharinegiovanni.com

Although I’m home now, the last four weeks have taken me to a place where the December newsletter never made it.

It’s a world between worlds. Present, but not quite.

It’s the in-between.

Where was I, you ask?

The hospital. Sitting at my husband Ron’s bedside.

Ron was in a horrible car accident, hit from behind. He broke his back, his arm, and four ribs. He’s going to recover, but it’s going to take time.

The hospital is a unique place. It exists in the world, yet apart from it. Your entire focus becomes the patient in the bed. The world outside fades into the background. Time feels suspended, marked only by the hum of machines and the soft shuffle of passing nurses, who were amazing by the way. Each moment is heavy, yet strangely timeless—as if life beyond the hospital walls is a distant memory.

As a Cancer survivor, I’ve weathered my own storm, and one thing I know for certain is this: the person you were going in is not the same person who comes out. And it’s not just you—your family and loved ones are forever changed by the journey, too, each shaped by the weight of the storm in their own way.

In my case, my two sons became my lifeline. They literally flew to my side, stepping up in ways I didn’t expect, holding me together when I couldn’t hold myself. Their love and strength became my anchor in the chaos, and I’ll be forever grateful for their support.

And let’s not forget my soul sisters—my chosen family. They’ve been my rock, showing up with love, humor, and care when I needed it most. Their presence was a constant reminder that love transcends bloodlines, and the bonds we choose can be just as powerful, if not more so.

But here’s the beauty in it all: the storm doesn’t just break you—it rebuilds you. It strengthens bonds, deepens love, and shifts perspectives. While none of us emerge unscarred, we come out with a newfound appreciation for life—and often, a deeper connection to those who weathered the storm by our side.

Through it all, I’ve learned that in the in-between, we discover not just who we are, but who we’re meant to be—and the love that surrounds us can be the greatest gift of all.

The post When the World Stops: The Lessons of the In-Between appeared first on Katharine Giovanni.

Originally Published on https://katharinegiovanni.com/blog/

Katharine Giovanni Award-winning best-selling author

Katharine, a three-time award-winning best-selling author of twelve books, is a dynamic speaker, trainer, and advisor. Her latest work, “The Ultimate Path to Forgiveness: Unlocking Your Power,” offers profound insights into the transformative power of forgiveness.

A trailblazer in the concierge industry, Katharine founded the first association for independent concierges, shaping the industry for over two decades until her retirement in March 2023. Her pioneering spirit and commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the profession.

Throughout her illustrious career, Katharine has trained numerous concierge and front-line staff, earning her clients a reputation as some of the industry’s most successful. Her expertise has been sought after by major media outlets, with features on ABC News Nightline, CBS News, Good Morning America, MTV, Time Magazine, Money Magazine, Forbes, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.

A proud breast cancer survivor, Katharine’s resilience and determination inspire others to overcome life’s challenges. Raised in the vibrant backdrop of New York City, she holds a B.A. from Lake Forest College and currently calls North Carolina home.

For those eager to explore Katharine’s wisdom or connect with her, visit www.KatharineGiovanni.com to discover more about her groundbreaking forgiveness book and other transformative works.