Yes, that is right. It has already been one year since I was diagnosed with POTS. Today is the day, April 6th, the day I was finally given an answer to all of my problems. Although, I was dealing with POTS for at least five to four years before I was diagnosed, I was just glad to have a name for the hell that I was going through. It gave and still gives me a name to blame. Diaversary (diagnosis anniversary) is a term that I was told by my friend who celebrates her own Diaversary. I mean it isn't the best thing to celebrate but it has greatly impacted my life in many ways. It has changed every part of my life; my personal, social, family, school, etc. I have a blog now and started a Chronic Illness Awareness and Support group on my college campus. I have met so many people after being diagnosed. I have learned to adapt, sort of. I have asked, listened and learned from other people's stories. It has been truly life changing, of course I would rather not have this illness but I have no choice. I guess I will just have to accept that.
One of the things I have most appreciated after being diagnosed is seeing how the people in my life have either come or gone. The ones that are still in my life; I truly love and appreciate. The ones that have seen me at my absolute worse really know how bad this disorder can get. My mom says that she actually forgets how bad it can get because I am so full of energy, ha, when I have energy. I think I forget too. Then I remember, when I have a bad week like this last week. People have been there for me whether I am just having a bad flare-up or in the ER. Some have taken me to the ER or visited me there and others have just gotten me water or my pills and I appreciate all of it. It is the simple things that really help me too. I don't think people realize that. Another thing people don't realize is that just saying something encouraging to me when I am feeling terrible helps me fight. And that is why today I am wearing my shirt that says, "I'm not superwomen, but I'm fighting dysautonomia so close enough." Dysautonomia is the 'umbrella' term for POTS, just in case some of you didn't know. I will write about that eventually.
You may be wondering how I am "celebrating" today. Well, I am wearing that shirt and I have four classes and three meetings today. One of them is the Chronic Illness meeting and we will be talking about our and sharing our diagnosis stories. I also bought some candy for whomever shows up! So, that is how I am "celebrating."
What a journey it has been and will continue to be...
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