As I look back on my life, there are so many things I can be thankful for. Whether it was during my career as a nurse, getting to experience the joys of parenthood, or simply the day to day blessings, I am always aware of how blessed I am. That being said, I never expected the journey I was about to take due to my chronic pancreatitis.
It all started years ago. I had been feeling lethargic, weak and bloated for months but brushing it off as just another symptom of aging. Then one day, my stomach felt so uncomfortable that I decided to seek medical attention. After the diagnosis, I was so shocked that I couldn’t even process what the doctor was telling me. I had chronic pancreatitis and it would require treatment and a lifestyle change.
At first, it felt like my life was over. I was used to running around and taking care of everyone, and I worried that this diagnosis would put a stop to that. But as time went on, I realized that this was an opportunity to take my health into my own hands, and I decided to make the most of it.
I began to make changes in my lifestyle. I focused on eating healthier, exercising more, and reducing stress. I also started attending a bi-weekly support group for people with chronic pancreatitis, which provided a great source of support and information. I was also able to speak with other people who were going through the same things as me. Hearing their stories and successes was a huge source of encouragement and motivation for me.
Slowly but surely, I was able to get my life back on track. After a few months of taking care of myself, I began to feel much better. I was finally able to return to my normal activities and enjoy a better quality of life. I was even able to start travelling again and to take all of the necessary precautions in order to protect my health.
Though the road to recovery was not easy, I am so grateful for the blessing of my health. I was able to conquer my chronic pancreatitis and I now have a newfound appreciation for life. I have so much hope for the future and I will never take my health for granted again.