As told to Brandi Lytle
Last month, Lisa shared her CNBC story. (Your can read that here.) This month, Lisa is back to tell us how she’s finding joy despite struggling through endometriosis…
What difficulty were (or are) you struggling with?
Currently, I am struggling with my endometriosis. I have had this chronic illness for close to 15 years, and my health has declined rapidly over the past year.
Why had you lost your joy?
I lost my joy because endometriosis has taken so much from me. I spend A LOT of time in bed, trying to rest because of how horrible I feel. And I have to always be prepared for bleeding because currently, this could start at ANY moment. The medication I’m on while I wait for surgery causes my hair to fall out. That alone would make many women upset!
What good thing (no matter how big or small) helped you to start focusing on the positive?
I am not a biological parent. And I am never going to be a biological parent. It is something I have always dreamed of, but it’s not going to happen.
But I am lucky enough to be a step-parent and, also, an Auntie. Watching these very special kids (I mean, I know I’m biased because I love them) grow brings joy to my life. Recently, they have ALL started learning new things. Knowing that I am a part of their learning journey and their life brings so much joy.
Seeing my stepsons learning to ride motorbikes brings so much light to my heart. Seeing my niece grow and change daily is amazing. She recently has gotten more comfortable swimming in the pool. So, seeing her have water fights and learning to swim is an amazing thing. I can be a part of all of this while I am so sick currently, which also helps.
What would you like to say to others who are going through the same struggle that you have overcome (or are in the process of overcoming)?
Anybody that is dealing with an illness, don’t give up. I have thought about it often–especially when I am lying in a hospital bed, heavily bleeding, and the doctors are discussing me like I am not even there. Or when I have to discuss the fact that I cannot have kids. I have wanted to give up.
But instead, I hold on to the little things that make me happy. Mint flavoured chocolate. My favourite movie. A favourite book. Time with my favourite person.
Everybody dealing with illnesses has a different story–none of us are the same–but as alone as you may feel, there are others out there. Reach out and join online support groups and communicate with them from bed on your bedridden days.
There is no manual to dealing with this stuff. Sometimes, all you can do is take it day by day, or even hour by hour. Make the most of your pain free days, but always, always rest.
It is a struggle, but I believe in the small things. It might feel like we will never be okay, and it’s okay to feel that way, but just remember no matter what: it’s not forever.
Thank you, Lisa, for bravely sharing your truth! As a fellow endo warrior, I hope that you find relief from your endo flares and have many, many pain-free days! No matter what happens, I am certain you will keep your joy because of your strong tenacity and beautiful perspective on life…
If anything Lisa wrote resonates with you, please tell her about it in the comments.
Fabulous one, won’t you inspire others ad share how you found joy after struggle? Click here to find out how…
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Featured Photo: Xochi Romero on StockSnap.io
