Leanne Gryzboski

Two years ago a close friend, a city dweller, asked me, “Could you ever see yourself living in a city?” Without hesitation I answered, “No.” One year later, I found myself saying “yes” to volunteer in the city of all cities, New York City. I will vividly remember the moment the skyline came into view during the van trip from orientation in Philadelphia. The feeling in the pit of my stomach and tingling in my hands were sure signs I was experiencing pure nervousness. I thought, “What have I gotten myself into?” Repeating that question while watching the skyline come closer and closer, I realized, “God works in mysterious ways and for some reason, which I am not yet fully aware, He has decided He wants me here.” And so was my entrance into the city.

As the van continued along 14th Street, I heard Madeline Bialecki, Cabrini Mission Corp’s Director, saying something about an L train connecting to another train that would take me to visit my fellow new missioners Blake and Judy in their community “uptown.” I nodded my head while secretly thinking, “Can I do this?” The next thing I knew, Madeline said good-bye, and I was left standing with two of my new community members I barely knew. I thought, “Okay. What do I do now?” And so was my entrance into community.

The elevator doors opened onto the 15th floor of the inpatient rehabilitation unit of Cabrini Medical Center. I stepped out looking for the Physical Therapy department, and was intercepted by a man who asked, “Who are you?” I became somewhat flustered and felt like an intruder. I introduced myself and explained why I was there. He smiled, shook my hand, and introduced himself as the Director of Rehabilitation. He led me to the gym, opened the door, and I met the gaze of my future co-workers. I thought, “Here I go.” And so was my entrance into mission work.

Now a year has passed and not only have I survived the city, but I have found a real liking for it. During our first retreat of the year I was asked to ponder something I was seeking to find during this coming year, and I was adamant about “discovering a passion.” I believe I have found it here amongst the plethora of museums, theaters, clubs and concert halls—the arts.

Living in community has been so meaningful that I came to refer to Sagrado Corazon as home and my community as my second family. I will forever cherish our time together, and cannot thank each of them enough for welcoming me with open hearts and helping me grow in faith.

Mission work at Cabrini Medical Center was challenging in many respects, but I left there without regrets. I am thankful to have worked beside a warm and supportive rehab staff and to have met God through my interactions with my patients. It was here I realized the direction I want to pursue as a professional physical therapist and for this I am grateful.

I was commissioned to “go forth with an open heart and mind to share your compassion…may your ability to heal be fueled by God’s strength and love…may you learn to stand firm in your faith…may the Lord continue to be your inspiration as you traverse along this new path in life.” My goal this past year has been to make my mission statement a reality, and I feel I have succeeded.

-by Leanne Gryzboski

Leanne plans to remain in New York City where she will continue to work as a physical therapist.

Read Leanne's introductory letter to the Cabrinian Family

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