I've Been Tagged!!
This past week has seen me suffer a set back I would’ve never imagined possible six months status post clotting event.
Frustrations have been high as I once again realize I’m not in control of what I think I am or wish I were. Between leg twitches and mysterious ‘itches’, there was also moments of joy and happy tears.
Yes, I am a survivor! I wear that badge with honor and pride, but before that, I was the daughter of one. I was ecstastic when in college, my sister happened across the name for our disease. As a research junkie, it was just what I’d been looking for. This began the search in earnest. Somewhat for selfish reasons, but mostly for my Mom, then for family, I wanted to find ‘it’ whatever ‘it’ was. I’d watched my Mom deal with an unknown disorder all my life and my dream was to give back to her the weapons needed to beat it. Unfortunately, I wasn’t quick enough and the references were too vague. When she passed in March of 1999, the dream became stronger.
In November of 1999, another reference source opened up to me when I purchased my first computer and found….the internet!!! Again, I searched and scoured only to find what I’d found previously and to no avail.
Now, it’s 2013, I’ve experienced my worst clotting event to date and I, once again, feel the need to share. I began by sharing pictures on Instagram. I’d been a member for nearly a year and had met wonderful people who supported me every step of the way. Then one day, I hashtagged pulmonary embolism on one of my pictures and my world changed.
With that one change, pulmonary embolism, an entire world opened to me. Young women responded. Women who had suffered life changing events such as mine. I started blogging in response to their questions, and most recently started Twitter and Facebook pages. The response has been overwhelming. As the ‘longest’ and ‘oldest’ survivor of this circle, I am honored to offer education and support.
It was a response on the Facebook page this week that had me in joyful tears. I came to the realization that what I had dreamed for my Mom might actually be coming true. Maybe not for her, but in helping others. My dream is that this will continue to grow, support, and educate far beyond what I could ever imagine. Most of all, I wish my Mom could see this. I wish she could know what’s being accomplished because of her.
Twenty-five years in the making. Mom this is because of and for you! I love you!
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Living ~ Not Just Surviving 