repairs

It’s hard and humbling when our bodies need repair. Mary Anne Arnold

Medical issues can be daunting and are seldom easy. Some more so than others. Some challenges involve long journeys which are bolstered by help and support from family and friends.

For the past several months, I’ve worked through medical challenges that included ultrasounds, biopsies, surgery, radiation treatments, and medications. Through this disruption in my life, I’ve wandered around in my mind to all sorts of dark places as I waited for a phone call or an email offering new information which would shock me back to reality. I now have a greater appreciation of why this process can be called a journey. I’ve always been fierce, and I’ve always been in control of most aspects of my life. I’ve worked hard at this for as long as I can remember. I like to think of myself as being independent. After I heard my diagnosis, I was not in control – of anything. I’ve also never been patient, so I’ve had to figure out how to quiet my mind, stay positive, and attempt to keep some normalcy in my life.

As with all things over the past 40 years, my husband, Don, has been by my side. My sister, Ellie, and extended family have always been a phone call away. In addition, before the surgery, Ellie, and my nephew, Tyler, sent my entire family a link to purchase tee shirts for them to wear proclaiming their support for me. Don, Ellie, Tyler, and my niece, Darci, were all at the hospital on the day of my surgery. And, on that scary day, I got text messages from all my siblings and their children, our son, and our granddaughters. Most included pictures of themselves wearing their support shirts. My sister stayed with me for a week after surgery. My family has been a constant source of loving support during these months.

My friends were ever present in my life during this time as well. In that regard, I am beyond lucky; I’m truly blessed. They called, sent cards, texted, and provided meals, constantly checking in and making me feel so supported and loved. One of those friends does beautiful original stained-glass work. Because she likes the wonky birds in my paintings, she made for me a beautiful wonky bird which she named Hope. This empathetic spunky bird sits on my mantle and calms me, warming my heart every day. Thank you so much, Mary Anne Arnold!!

Confronting this medical challenge with the encouragement of family and friends has made me aware of how much I depend on my support system and how incredibly fortunate I am to have these people in my life. I’m grateful to each of them.

I have experienced many emotions during this recent journey. I’ve realized that, while my experience has been unpleasant, there are so many people whose struggles and challenges are heavier and more dire. I have gleaned great insight from listening to others who have made this journey before me. Part of the reason I am sharing something this personal is because I want to be that person who helps others who receive a diagnosis like mine. I want to share my thoughts and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

As we move through time, I hope we can all hold our family and friends close as we help them and let them help us when our bodies need repairs.