Amy Oestreicher’s Story

Last month, “06880” reported that Amy Oestreicher’s story would be featured on The Today Show’s “Everyone Has a Story” segment.

Today it was.

Wow!

Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda sat with 24-year-old Amy, her mother Marilyn and father Mark — a Westport dermatologist.  Matter-of-factly, they described the events of 2005:  Amy suffered a major blot clot.  Her stomach exploded.  She lapsed into a coma.  For 2 1/2 years, she could not eat or drink.

After 20 surgeries — including the removal of her stomach — she now finds blessings in life.  Her creativity enriches the lives of those around her.  She inspires everyone she sees.

Amy Oestreicher (Photo credit/Westport News)

A year ago, “Today Show” viewers learned, Amy picked up a paint brush.  Her home now overflows with canvases.  She showed 60 mixed media creations at an exhibit.   And she performs as a singer.  (A couple of summers ago, she was in the Staples Summer Theater production of “Cats.”)

After Marilyn talked about the lessons her daughter taught her — for example, how to love life — Broadway’s Heidi Blickenstaff performed an original song about Amy.

The title:  “Still Alive.”

Afterward, the “Today Show” hosts showered gifts on Amy:  a MOMA membership.  Limousine trips.  Free vocal coaching.

They gave a shout-out to the Oestreichers’ friends and neighbors in Westport and Fairfield — “great, great people.”

Through it all, Amy smiled a broad, loving smile.

So did millions of viewers, all across America.

Thanks, Kathie Lee, Hoda, Heidi, and the rest of the “Today Show” crew.

And thank you, Amy!

(To see the “Today Show” video, click here.)