|
My name is Kimberly and I was diagnosed with 'Idiopathic' Gastroparesis 5
years, 11 months ago after becoming extremely ill. My Gastroparesis was found after completing a Gastric Emptying Test
that showed my stomach was only emptying food less than 2 percent. I then had exploratory surgery with my gallbladder removed
in hopes of helping aid digestion as well to check for any further problems with my organs. After 2 weeks
recovery unfortunately it did not help my Gastroparesis.
I was approached in October 2004 by "44 Blue Productions" on doing a
show on Gastroparesis for A&E so I flew to Las Vegas to tape the show on Gastroparesis and the part it plays in my everyday
life as well others who suffer from this poorly researched illness. I met some truly genuine and caring people
during my time out in Las Vegas as well a wonderful and very supportive group of directors & production
crew. The show was picked up only as a pilot and aired on the west coast.
In October 2005, I decided to start the Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign
Organization working with other Gastroparesis patients, family members, loved ones, medical profession, bio-tech companies
and International government to help shed light on much needed medical research and public awareness. I
refuse to allow anyone with Gastroparesis to suffer alone or in silence, its important that the patient speaks out. The Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign to
this date has brought much success creating public attention to this rare illness by promoting statewide education
programs. The design & launching of the first Gastroparesis Awareness magnetic car ribbon was released
late 2005. The Gastroparesis Awareness ribbon has provided miles of public awareness in the USA as well Overseas.
I have worked over the past five years with Government officials in helping
to declare national awareness programs for Gastroparesis in various states helping to educate health care professionals
and state citizens. My long-term goal is to get all 50 states to recognize Gastroparesis helping to educate others
on this poorly researched GI motility disorder. 'The Celebrity Ribbon Run' was created in 2006 and
continues to grow strong in the Gastroparesis mission of spreading worldwide awareness.
*New Gastroparesis projects will be starting up again in the spring &
summer 2010.
| A&E/Production Crew, Directors in Las Vegas |
|
| 'Truly a pleasure working with everyone, thank you!' |
My plan of action since being diagnosed with Gastroparesis has alot to
do with self medicating with exercise and completely changing my diet. I tend to consume more liquids than solids which
is easier on the gi tract to digest. I was never able to find any relief with medications due to the side effects that only
make my Gastroparesis worse and the added risks outweighed the benefits. I decided to make a drastic lifestyle
change by introducing daily exercise with light biking and yoga, liquidating my fruits and vegetables using a 'Jack LaLanne'
juicer machine and an abdominal belt, 'SlenderTone' which has recently been FDA approved. The juicing helps so my stomach does not have to break the solid food. I tend to eat Tilapia or other light
fish for protein which is very low fat and metabolizes in the stomach very easily as well protein drinks and meal
supplement bars. I continue to find foods that work best for me with trial and error however each patient is
different. I do splurge every so often regardless of the effects it might have however the food does sit for a few days. I also
drink alot of sports drinks, Vita-water and Smart water mixed with Pedialyte to help stay hydrated but tend
to stay away from caffeinated beverages. I do miss eating red meat, pork and chicken however due
to the body can not break down most red meats, the food can stay in the stomach for days which can lead
to benzoars. Caffeine causes extreme spasms in the esophagus, stomach and intestines with Gastroparesis patients however
carbonated drinks can help aid digestion. I take a liquid multivitamin, Centrum or gummy vitamins daily to help replace
nutrients that my body lacks by not eating a variety of foods as well a calcium supplement due to I can
not tolerate alot of dairy products.
9/13/2005- I had another EGD procedure this time with balloon dilation, stomach
biopsy to help with esophagus constriction (Diffuse Esophagus) due to acid reflux and my Gastroparesis. Doctors
are not sure if the esophagus will stay open or if the procedure will need repeated within the year. The constriction
is very common with Gastroparesis patients due to stomach acid and food that has not digested however 'Diffuse Esophagus'
will not worsen but tends to become a permanent condition.
12/1/2005- Final meeting with my doctors. We have exhausted all possible tests
over the past 19 months and still nothing to show the origin of why my stomach stopped working. My doctors tend to agree
medication at this point unfortunately that is not designed for Gastroparesis will only add unwanted side effects
so the goal is to continue with the alternate treatment at home. I continue to have hope that one day FDA will find a
medication to help all patients struggling with Gastroparesis.
1/7/2006- Alternate treatment (exercise, heat therapy, liquid diet) continues
to remain successful and I am finally making my way back to a somewhat normal life.
3/10/2006- Testing will continue for current problems with slow motility
of the GI tract. Specialists are now sure this is related to my Gastroparesis. Further testing on
the pancreas will be observed as well liver levels because of possible food backing up.
6/4/2006- My Gastroparesis is now leading to other digestive problems and in general
slowing the entire digestive process. I am starting to get burned out of daily exercise to keep the food going so trying
to find some outdoor activities. I am continuing to have problems with dehydration (electrolytes).
7/6/2006- After visiting the hospital over the weekend I was told by
my doctors that my colon function (motility) is not working so I am going back to my GI Specialists to discuss the options
that might allow me to continue living a better or somewhat more normal life. It could take 2-4 weeks to clear the
colon completely out so liquids are now a normal part of my daily diet and form of nutrition. Not sure of my future but anything
is possible with strong support, hope and prayers.
7/7/2006- News from the docs not good and coming to terms that the
colon has little to no motility, at this point they are not sure what to do next. I am trying to stay mentally grounded
as well keeping my mind occupied with work.
7/15/2006- The colon is finally but slowly clearing out day
by day. I have learned a tough lesson over the past 2 years as well what true friends in life really mean and if
they will stick by your side through the best and worst of times. I will move on with my life the best I can and accept
what I have before me with God's help and I will be ok. Whether you like it or not life is certainly full of changes,
you may not like it but it is what it is....................
7/21/2006- Working with doctors in August on limited upcoming
tests to find out the plan of action now for the loss of my colon motility.
8/5/2006- Polyp, abnormal tissue growth located in colon were both
completely removed this week. Gaining my strength back from 4 week strict liquid diet. I will be continuing with
liquids until pathology comes back in a week with lab results from biopsy. Doctors still not sure on plan of action
on motility function of the colon.
08/21/2006- All of my doctors/specialists have been truly wonderful
these past 2 years, all additional treatment options have been exhausted however I am grateful for their honestly
and never giving up on me. I will be seeing another GI group of 4 specialists late August in hopes of any other potential
treatments or insight they can offer the other physicians to help with the loss of motility with my stomach and
colon due to the Gastroparesis. I have slowly learned to fully accept my illness and each day living life to
the fullest. One must never give up on hope however you must face the road that leads ahead sometimes to the
unknown. There 'is' always a light at the end of the tunnel.
09/23/2006- Now working on round #3 of testing. There is a possible
Gastric Pacemaker testing later this fall at a research hospital that they might be able to get me into as well finding a
Gastric Motility clinic/research hospital to help find a way to make life more tolerable with my Gastroparesis.
10/15/2006- Recovering from medical procedures and stomach/small intestine
biopsy. Will be moving forward with hospital Dietitian and Nutritionist mid November as well testing for potential
Gastric Pacemaker and colon motility.
11/6/2006- Trying to maintain my weight and stay hydrated as well out
of the hospitals. Amitiza- A new medication on the market for the colon did not work seeing I had a very bad reaction
so back to square one.
11/15/2006- Long meeting today working with a team of registered Dietitians
at the hospital to get back on my feet. My weight is at an all time low of 112 pounds and my body is starting to use muscle
for fuel-not good. I might have hit rock bottom but I will continue to fight to get back up that hill and get better! Trying
some alternate treatments for the next 6 weeks if that does not work I am seriously thinking of using "Nocturnal
Jejunum feedings" to get my weight back up.
12/09/2006- So far gained 2 pounds, up to
114 with the new diet plan. Still trying alternate foods and vita-waters/protein drinks however I am finally having
more good days than bad days. Now the real test-Holiday foods, heehee. Next visit with Dietitians in 2 weeks. Indeed
life is good! :)
1/01/2007- A New Year 2007 and another chance to make a fresh start. Opting to
not seek continued help from Dietitians. The new diet was not working so reaching from strength deep within to continue
the fight! Sure I have my bad days, we are all human but I will never give up the fight....
2/01/2007- Continued monitoring on my pancreas levels with new
diet. Still in question for ERCP procedure due to possible Gastroparesis complications with biliary ducts, I prefer not to
have it so undecided at this moment.
2/20/2007- Having great success in therapy helping to deal with my
Gastroparesis as well coming to terms with the other parts of my life that it affects on a daily basis.
3/10/2007- Giving massage therapy a try to help with the bowel, stomach pain
and relax the muscles from spasms. Thank goodness weight is holding steady around 113, WHEW!!
3/29/2007- What a wonderful Gastroparesis focus group meeting tonight
and I just want to say you are all in my prayers. It truly was one amazing experience to finally meet face to face with
other Gastroparesis patients like myself.
4/26/2007- Trying to find something to keep my intestines going-Miralax
is making me dehydrated and causing fluids to retain in my bowels. I can't handle much more liquid Drano-Golytley surgical
bowel prep-similar to having colonoscopy prep once a week. The specialists/surgeons can not seem to come to an agreement
on surgery to help maybe eliminate some of this pain and pressure so I might have to consult with another group
of doctors. The fun never ends right? NOT!
5/14/2007- Dr. Wells has been amazing and I thank him for being my shoulder to lean during the most
difficult times. I think my acceptance living with Gastroparesis has come to full circle now however I
refuse and will never accept not having 100 percent of my normal life back. This gal will always keep her boxing gloves on.
You know, Life IS worth fighting!
8/8/2007- Working with specialists on upcoming extensive blood and
genetic testing to see if I could possibly have any underlying conditions such as Lupus, etc that could play a part in my
Gastroparesis. Gut kicks that maybe I might have answers, one can only hope right?
8/25/2007- Met with a wonderful Hematology group and amazing doctors. Went through my first round
of extensive blood work and second round next week. I told my doctor this is it, I will not be seeing anymore specialists
nor more testing, enough is enough already right, gees! Putting my faith in the good Lord and hope that
maybe they can after 3 years 6 months connect the dots. Time will tell.
9/8/2007- All Hematology tests came back Thursday and seems the only direction is pointed
back to severe Gastroparesis which has my body all out of sync and causing alot of organs to just not function properly. There are no
more specialists left for me to see nor nothing at this point anyone can do. After 3 years 6 months it
is now shifted to acceptance. My true strength and character is now going to be tested so time for a new life and whatever
my future may hold in front of me.
10/8/2007- Keeping the faith and staying mentally strong for upcoming
surgery November 2nd. Please keep the surgeons/doctors in your prayers for hope and strength during this difficult procedure.
11/1/2007- READY FOR SURGERY! :)
11/10/2007- What a birthday gift of continued recovery physically &
mentally from one 'Hellish Nightmare' surgery of twisted bowels, severe dense adhesion's pulling down from my
stomach, cleaning up strangled and gutted reproductive organs, freeing up my bladder, etc. It was alot more than
ever expected from my surgeons who told me and my family they literally sweat the entire surgery with one refusing to ever
go back in surgically. GP still present and 50/50 chance my colon function will return back to normal. Of course this surgery
is only a temporary fix seeing the severe dense adhesion's will grow back in time, they are just not sure when. I am trying
to find some hope.
12/17/2007- Officially released as of this week from all Surgeons, Specialists, Doctors only to schedule
yearly follow up appointments, scopes and biopsies. There is nothing else left that medical technology has to offer and
I have exhausted these past 3 years 10 months all testing available to my doctors. Surgery was not a success
for the motility of my GI organs due to Gastroparesis. They were able to take down alot of scar tissue/adhesion's and untangle
one heck of a mess but found through testing it is not responsible for my Gastroparesis. I would have
not done anything any different through these years and at the end of the day I can say you know-'I fought this battle
with everything I have, not giving up, nor giving in but pushing with my doctors to find answers.' My life now
is in the hands of future medical technology- Gastroparesis medications and a possible cure. I have a new pair
of boxing gloves, ready to keep up the fight! I sure have learned alot along the way and hoping I can help many other fellow
Gastroparesis patients through their life journey. Fighting is worth it! Life is worth it & YOU are worth fighting
for!
1/17/2008- 'As a GP survivor, I am well aware of just how
debilitating Gastroparesis can become. When I can offer someone else hope, I go to bed with a fulfilled life.'
2/8/2008- What can I say on my 4 year GP Anniversary date
but here I am and will keep on fighting! Looks like the boxing gloves will stay laced up!
3/24/2008- Having seizures. Valium helps with them while Neurology looks into possible link
of the seizures due to Gastroparesis.
3/27/2008- Vagus Nerve/Gastroparesis connection-Are we onto something? Continuing Valium therapy and so
far in past 4 days only had one seizure.
3/28/2008- Life may not always be a bed of roses. Think with your brain, then your
heart. When you do good onto others, good will come back to you.
4/3/2008- The day that life forever changed and time stood still. My CrystalBlue passed
soundly away in her sleep on my bed with her head on my pillow. This night I allowed her early sleep instead of GP office
time with me which I never let happen, this night she wasn't by my side, did she not want to me to see because of the pain
it would have caused me? I know she is still here in spirit by my side waiting for me to follow her through the
gates of heaven. She was my everything and indeed my heart is broken and shattered in a million pieces.
4/8/2008-Neurology tests came back and had meeting to go over everything and long term care plan. I
am waiting to meet with my doctors tomorrow as well Cardiology group next week. To regenerate nerves would be impossible.
Time to do alot of soul searching and blessed to have my CrystalBlue home as of this afternoon. I made a special bed with
her white blanket and beautiful crystal blue urn and her favorite toys in it. I find peace and comfort in knowing she is now
with me again and waiting to be once again by my side.
4/9/2008-Appointment with doctors tomorrow to discuss seizure relation to my Gastroparesis. All
medications available on the market Neurologists fear will only create other GI organ problems. They gave me medication to
take home earlier this week but the risks do highly outweigh the benefits.
4/11/2008-With the seizures it has been decided after alot of soul searching and wonderful
compassionate and understand specialists the time has come to retire early after 20 years of working and go on permanent
disability. The 'They don't ask and I don't tell policy' with the company came full circle and I think corporate
was more than a bit surprised with the Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign organization and my life behind the scenes. I am at
peace with the decision and indeed time to give my body a break. In life one door may close but another one is always waiting
to open.
5/12/2008-Time sure is flying by this month. It's amazing but nothing is sometimes the absolute
hardest thing to do. Making the decision to leave the corporate world and give my full time and attention to the
Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign organization I started 3 years ago sure was the best decision of my life. Helping others
around the world is truly priceless!
6/24/2008-Summer and taking time to relax but pushing forward on the Gastroparesis Mission! I
have come to realize sad but true that in life sometimes society can be awfully quick to judge the book by its cover.
If they don't walk in your shoes never expect others to fully understand a 'unique' life with a disability. We are human but just
living life a bit differently with a creative touch, compassion and a whole lot of heart!
7/9/2008-Taking care of a pup is well a HECK of alot harder than 11 years ago before I was sick, what
an awakening indeed it has been the past few weeks. Takes more than myself to care for the little one but she sure
does reminds me of my little CrystalBlue. Animals give abundance of unconditional love and can be great therapy for the soul
:)
7/19/2008-More tests, more tests, more tests, so many doctors come up with different
theories on how I got Gastroparesis and well seems no one 'really' knows the mystery question of why?.. During this next month
of some very HOT temperatures I am doing my best to increase fluids so I can stay hydrated and out of the hospitals.
Trying to stay in remission with my flair ups and keeping busy sure helps the mind!
8/26/2008-Lower left mass found during a routine ultrasound. The surgeons are not sure
what the mass is, first thinking it was bowel wrapped together with adhesion's but since they ordered a cat scan it now shows
a mass not a bowel adhesion problem however the mass is stuck deep between the intestines so it is going to
be very hard to even get to the location surgically.
9/26/2008-Exam and follow up surgical consult to get my surgery date October 8th. I can't wait to have
the mass taken out, makes me a bit uneasy knowing it is there and I can't wait to finally get some normal sleep. There comes
a time when you must get that 'Game-Face' back on, I am ready!
10/9/2008-I am physically exhausted, mind is strong but my body is tired. I am not sleeping very well
either which only makes me more drained. Surgeon consult today went far from expectation, they all feel I could
not go through another surgery right now, they are now going to keep monitoring me on a monthly basis, so more repeat testing.
I am just tired of being tired, sounds funny doesn't it? Yes, one can still keep a sense of humor, you have to in life. I
am B L A N K.....
10/24/2008-This week was final testing. Seems next game plan to remove part of the colon they feel is
far too risky and I would not make it through another surgery nor the recovery process. After a split
second decision I agreed. There is still much, much more Gastroparesis awareness to raise, many others to reach out and help
to inspire to keep the good fight! I also have alot more time to annoy everyone, heeheehee! I left my surgeons office shaking
his hand with a smile. I won't be seeing my surgeons for another 6 months. I must be proud for my GREAT fight
I have given over the past 4 years, I continue to find peace within. Indeed learning to appreciate far more now
the little things in life, the things that make you smile :)
11/10/2008-WHEWWWWWHOA! I made it, another year, another day and now I am 37, where did the time go?
Birthday cake for everyone!
12/3/2008-Time for my records to move to Oncology? My current surgeons now realize even maybe
things are too complex for them to handle, I have to be ok with their honesty and I am. Hoping to get
into the new pain mgr doctor within the next few weeks, solid sleep would be a blessing about right now minus pain waking
me up. Continuing to take things one day at a time and sometimes even one hour at a time but you can't hold a good gal down,
got those boxing gloves laced tight!
Spreading GP Awareness One Person At A
Time
You My Friend Will Never Again Walk Alone.
©2010
|
 |
|
| Gastroparesis Fund Raiser-2006 |
|
| Spreading the word on Gastroparesis Education |
Almost 6 years ago my life was forever changed by this rare GI condition, 'Idiopathic
Gastroparesis.' Over the years I have found the inner strength that I have within myself and the strong will
to continue living life. I strive to help inspire and reach out to others along my personal journey. I have met some truly
amazing people who have shown me the true meaning of life and the rewards of helping those in need. I will continue doing
all I can, giving 110 percent to help those patients who suffer on a daily basis in the hands of Gastroparesis.
I pray God can bless those individuals and their families so one day they can start living a much
normal life again.
'The goal is to not let Gastroparesis control your life but to find ways to make life easier
living with Gastroparesis.
With any rare medical condition one must have hope & faith. With
prayer, miracles are possible'.
| Gastroparesis Meet & Greet |
|
| Las Vegas-June 2008 |
| Kimberly & Chicken George-Big Brother Alumni |
|
| Showing Gastroparesis Awareness Support |
| Indiana-St. Vincent's Hospital-2007 |
|
| GP Patient Visit-Gastric Pacemaker Procedure |
| Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign |
|
| Peace T-Shirts |
| Kimberly-2008 |
|
| Southern Ohio Disability Convention-Showing Support! |
| Kimberly & Howie-Big Brother Show-Alumni |
|
| Spreading GP Awareness-Tennessee-2007 |
| Don Calf-'Weekend at Bernies' & Kimberly |
|
| Joining the Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign Organization |
12/12/2008-Surgery date was set yesterday for December 31st, the surgeons are not sure
if there is much that can be done. My Gastroparesis and related bowel motility issues will be a lifetime problem, they
feel it is best not to remove any of the colon or intestines at this point.
12/16/2008-Surgery postponed. Can we say my patiences are running thin? I am ready for
a one way ticket to Hawaii, celebrate Christmas with a book in one hand and a margarita in another.
12/21/2008-Surgery now rescheduled for February 2nd. Thank goodness!
1/14/2009-After meeting with all my specialists, heading back to main surgeon January
20th for final review, going over all risks and benefits of upcoming surgery.
1/28/2009-Recovering from Meningitis, will be 4-6 weeks, surgery has been postponed until
March and upon being released from Neurology. I thought Gastroparesis flair ups were bad! I think I have just found
another Monster-Meningitis!
2/10/2009-After follow up with Neurology this week and talking to my main surgeons
office, surgery will be postponed for quite sometime. The post Meningitis part of balance and hearing issues still have yet
to resolve. They can't give me a time, could be days, weeks or months, so I need extra patiences. I can't wait to drive and
get the heck out of the house, this is crazy! I feel jailed in my own home, LOLOL! that did sound FUNNYYYY! You know
me, never one to stay seated too long, I like to go, go, go! I am however finding much success behind the scenes with
new Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign Organization projects so working full time at home while my body heals is proving to
be VERY successful.
3/3/2009-Hematology/Oncology running another round of blood work. Due to the Meningitis
and my immune system it is still a long road to recovery and the game plan is holding off on surgery. Once
repeat testing is done end of April they will re-evaluate the left unknown mass, if it is still stable as show last month
then we continue the watch and wait game however if it has grown then Hematology/Oncology feels it is time for my Surgeons
to go ahead with scheduling surgery. It is estimated to be another 2-3 months to finally rid the Meningitis symptoms
and a possible year for my body to make a full recovery. My Gastroparesis has been very angry lately with all the
medications.
3/18/2009-Today marks 5 years that have changed every aspect of my life- Idiopathic Gastroparesis.
I don't look at my 5 year Gastroparesis Anniversary as a bad thing, I truly feel blessed. If I look back over the years, Gastroparesis
has completely changed me inside and out. It has made me a far better person for it too, that is something I can't deny. Gastroparesis
could have taken my life many, many times but I refuse to let it control me and I will continue to find ways to work around
those bad days. Indeed today I celebrate five years of a new life and many, many more years of a GREAT fight!
4/15/2009-5 years later and I have one heck of a team of specialists. They will continue
managing each symptom as it arises. I couldn't ask for a better team of doctors. Time to continue the good fight and I am
ready! :)
5/18/2009-Wow! spring time already! enjoying the nice weather before the heat and humidity
return for summer. I don't get out as much as last year due to limited energy but hoping for more good days ahead! Repeat
catscans continue every 3 months for any changes to give my surgeons the green light but blessed so far things continue stable
with the left mass. I continue to live by the day and not plan out since I don't know how I feel physically day to day.
6/8/2009-Long term, unknown medical conditions such as Gastroparesis that lack the
research and awareness I have learned can completely flip your life upside down to great depths. I am in the process of questioning
my next step medically with my surgeons. Our great government and Social Security system is back-logged another year and 6
months for county cases. This now leaves me waiting a total of 3 years for approval. Alot on my plate and just
trying to sift through and figure out which to tackle first. Let's just say if you are going through far too
much in your life I totally understand how you feel and my heart truly reaches out to each and every one of you.
7/7/2009-I had my upper scope last week, darn if I don't have a really bad case of gastritis
from an infection as well Gastroparesis doesn't help the situation either so back on meds for the next 30 days. They
took my coffee away and any caffeine, I feel like a walking zombie!
7/23/2009-My GI doctor called late last week on biospies that were taken during the upper
scope procedure. Seems they can not do any further dilations at this point because the choking sensations that still continue are
not from constriction but lack of smooth muscle contraction in the esophagus. What from? of course-my Gastroparesis. They
would like for me to have the 'Esophageal Manometry Test' placing a tube down my throat into my stomach-while awake.
Of course my question is will there really be anything you can do to correct the situation and their answer was-no. Now
why would anyone just do a test like this if there is no cure nor medication to help things? I was strongly advised to avoid
solid foods and stay on liquids. I am now already at 90 percent daily liquids. They are going to run a follow-up catscan
next month and then I need to schedule surgery with my surgeons. I just am not mentally ready for a major surgery,
I am not sure I will ever be at this point. I have honestly been putting it off for almost two years now.
8/28/2009-Did I not just post about putting off surgery for the past two years? The left
mass is continuing to look more like the ovary taken out almost two years ago that has regrown and been
functioning once again. There was a right bowel mass found on my scan however they are not sure what it could be and
will only know upon surgery. My surgical team will do surgery only as 'Emergency basis'. I have other reasons not to
have surgery, not for awhile. Looking very much forward to my favorite season just around the corner: FALL! :)
9/8/2009-Continuing stable. Feels great to beat the odds as a Survivor
after the long 5 year battle but will continue to fight! Sure is time for some positive changes ahead! Looking forward to
additional Gastroparesis projects for the winter so stayed tuned, we have only just begun!
10/17/2009-Today officially celebrates 4 years for the Gastroparesis Awareness Campaign
organization and what an amazing journey it has been! I have learned so much about myself and become truly inspired by
others who suffer from Gastroparesis as well other chronic medical conditions. No one is invincible in this lifetime. We all
need to support one another, lend a hand, show kindness, compassion and love. Thank you everyone for allowing my heart to
continue to grow and remember you too are never alone. KEEP ON! KEEPING ON! :)
10/30/2009-Over the past five years I have truly grown to be a very spiritual person. I
have taken alot of time to re-evaluate my health and have come to the decision that I will hold off on surgery. My surgical
team feels if I under go another surgery there is a very strong chance this time I won't make it out as well there are alot
of high risks that could lead to becoming paralyzed or worse losing vital organs. They are not comfortable proceeding ahead
which was fully discussed with me on a few occasions over the past month. That being said I am finally at peace and ok with
the decision to back away from surgery. No one can put a time on your life, its only up to one person. I have a great fight
ahead but I am more than ready :)
11/14/2009-I am very blessed to have recently celebrated my birthday. Living with a terminal
condition puts life quickly into perspective. Family and friends means so much more and the small things bring more happiness
than the elaborate things we all take so much for granted. Time has allowed me to form a closer bond to my family, friends and
Sister. I decided to create a 'Living Wish List' for next year so going to do my best to start living my wishes
out because life is meant to live! Thank you everyone for all your wonderful birthday and get well wishes. I am indeed touched!
:)
12/17/2009-Where did the year go? I can't believe it is almost Christmas and time for the
festivities around 'food'. *SIGH* Its amazing how much we celebrate with food and how hard it is having a medical condition
that limits what you can eat or drink. I call this my 'moody time of year'-hahhahaha! CHEERS!
1/1/2010-HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! May your year be filled with many blessings & GP
Free days :)
1/26/2010-I feel the winds of change right over the horizon. Doing some testing on new
gym equipment and working with a few other companies behind the scenes in hopes of providing more alternative options for
Gastroparesis Idiopathic patients. Will keep everyone updated on the results, etc.
2/2/2010-Do you ever wonder what in the world gets into people? I find the hardest emails,
letters and phone calls to take are from those who lost not just their health and freedom but the support of family,
friends and loved ones. You have to really sit back and question the truth in those who seek to harm and hurt others.
I have seen the best in people through the years but as well on the flip side; the ABSOLUTE WORST. I do believe
in Karma and when you do good unto others good will come back to you in abundance.
2/14/2010-HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE! May all your chocolate dreams come true!
:)
2/23/2010-I will be blogging on my experience before and after surgery starting February
21st, 2010.
'The Road Before & After Surgery'
Sharing my journey with others in hopes to inspire the great fight
for life.
'Sometimes in life you must first survive in order to live'
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
