We asked readers to share what they’re particularly thankful for this year. Here’s a sample of their responses, edited for space:

My family is always thankful, but may have taken too much for granted before April. Our sister, Melinda Watson, went into the hospital to have her gall bladder removed and ended up in intensive care on a ventilator for over a week. She was dead for a minute and was brought back. While she was in intensive care, she had a long road ahead of her but is now fully recovered. So this Thanksgiving our family is extra thankful. Telegraph readers, always cherish the moments you have with your family and take lots of pictures.

Rene Dyer

Byron

I’m thankful for my family: two sons and their wives, four granddaughters, one grandson, two great-granddaughters, and two great-grandsons.

I am very thankful for my new home. On May 5, when the hands of the ole clock began to point to my 85th birthday, something tells me it’s time to move on. So I on my very own chose Magnolia Manor Retirement Home on Pierce Avenue. I paid my farewell to a home of 54 years where I raised my family. ... With my choice to move into independent living, I am just that and couldn’t be happier.

Lois H. Gunter

Macon

Our youngest daughter, of three girls, recently had surgery and became septic from a bacterial infection. Days later she was placed on life support and we were told not to expect her to live. God answered the prayers of churches, friends and loved ones. Again the gift of life (God) gave to her and her family. This Thanksgiving will be the most special ever for our family.

Lastly, I’m thankful this Thanksgiving for organizations that reach out to those in need. For more than two decades I’ve worked with Kids Yule Love and headed up the Houston County Kids Yule Love for a decade or more. My thanks to all those who supported this gigantic effort. We cannot solve all problems, but we can share the joy of a great Christmas morning. A new toy, clothing or a new pair of shoes wished for will be a blessing.

Lola Ann Goss Williams

Macon

I must thank God for his mercy and grace because 10 years ago, I never thought I’d come as far as I have today. Then, I had no sense of direction, no kids, no faith, no goals -- and made very poor decisions.

All of it grew old quick, so I decided to make a change with myself and my lifestyle. I started off in a different state, in a different environment doing more positive things. Things started coming around for me in a way that felt so good that I didn’t want to go backwards.

The most precious gift I received through the midst of all this that I am the most thankful for is my wife and kids. They give me strength when I’m weak, smiles when I’m down, energy that no energy drink can give, and the warmest unconditional love a person can ever have.

Degeorgio Bundridge

Macon

I’m thankful for my spouse, Pat. She takes care of me. When I’m sick she’s there for me. I can depend on her to make sure I have everything I need to make the day. ... I thank God that he sent her to me.

Donnell Williams

Macon

I, like many other grandparents, am thankful for my grandchildren. The joys they bring to my life, as my children once did, are immeasurable. Each day with them is a gift. Seeing the world through their eyes makes my heart smile. There is a wonderful word in the spelling of grandparents ... grand!

What a blessing they are to our family!

Elaine Greene

Gray

I am thankful this Thanksgiving to have found my dream home in the “Song and Soul of the South,” Macon. Henceforth, far and away from the bitter cold winters and lake effect snow from around Lake Michigan up north.

I love the hills and curves of Macon and sleeping under the Georgia pines. I’m looking forward to joining the Writers Group and exploring all the bountiful nature, art, history and community my new life presents.

My heart sings down this Thanksgiving as I join you down South this year!

Judith Gorman

Macon