BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (BP)–Greeted by dozens of cheering employees, Dellanna W. O’Brien, executive director of Woman’s Missionary Union, returned to the organization’s national headquarters for the first time Oct. 22 after suffering a mild stroke Sept. 26.
O’Brien was released from a Birmingham, Ala., hospital Oct. 13. She continues to receive physical therapy three days a week as an outpatient and to get steadily stronger, officials said.
In addition to an extended ovation from employees, O’Brien also was greeted by a large banner reading, “Welcome back! We love you. We missed you.”
O’Brien’s return to the national headquarters was an emotional experience for her and the employees. Unable to speak for a few moments, O’Brien finally told the employees in a broken voice, “Now, I’m home. … You have overwhelmed me.”
In a handwritten note to employees following her visit, O’Brien said, “I can’t tell you how wonderful it was to see you at the building. I had missed you so much! Your reception, the welcome banner and hugs were very special. I look forward to being back full-time as soon as I can.”
While not full time, O’Brien has decided to begin coming to the office for a few hours each day twice a week, effective Oct. 27. In addition, her executive assistant will work with her at home some each week.
The day after O’Brien was released from the hospital, national WMU President Wanda Lee told WMU employees that she is very pleased with O’Brien’s progress.
A registered nurse of more than 25 years, Lee said, “Dellanna is past the crisis stage and in the recovery stage. And I believe it will be a full recovery, based on the rapid progress she has made and the determination she exhibits.”
In a statement released Oct. 15, O’Brien expressed gratitude for the expressions of prayer support she has received since the stroke.
“I have been so overwhelmed with the cards, notes and phone calls that I have received,” O’Brien said. “I am truly in awe of the many people who have prayed for me and for my recovery.
Cards and notes may be sent to O’Brien at P.O. Box 830010, Birmingham AL 35283-0010. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, contributions may be sent to the Dellanna West O’Brien Christian Women’s Leadership Development Fund, WMU Foundation, P.O. Box 11346 Birmingham, AL 35202-1346.
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*Name changed for security concerns.
