Let’s start off by saying this together, “I am NOT my trauma. My trauma(s) does not define me.” See, I think it’s important to clear the air right away. We’re not about to spend the next few minutes or next several years focusing on all the negative that has occurred in our lives. Let’s be honest, everyone has experienced some form of trauma in their lives. Yes, for some it’s deeply rooted generational traumas and for others it may be a specific act or incident. No one person’s trauma is more “traumatic” (air quotes) than the others. The fact is we will all experience trauma throughout our lives. How we respond to our trauma is what matters.
For me, I’ve had a few traumatic experiences in my 50 years but the one that sat me down and rocked my world was when I was diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in 2007. I mean ROCKED MY WORLD!! I remember the day so clearly. My doctor called me personally and asked me to come into the office immediately. Wait! What? Immediately??? When I tell you I hopped in the car so fast…. Whew! A part of me was nervous and the other part was relieved because I was about to find out what was wrong with me.
“You have six lesions on your brain indicative of multiple sclerosis!” That’s what she said as her eyes filled with tears. (Not me… my doctor.) The room went silent. I could see her lips moving but, I didn’t hear anything. The silence in my brain was deafening. When I checked back into the conversation, I recall her saying something like…. “It’s ok though. We’ll make sure you get the best support and treatment.”
Having MS has been a road full of twists and turns but, I have come through each with a greater appreciation for and perspective on life. It’s been almost 17 years since my diagnosis. My journey has been just that… a journey. I’ve experienced everything from depression and
sadness to relief and celebration. I’ve moved from anger in grief to acceptance in healing. I
have a completely different perspective on life because I put the work in to address my
emotions. I’ve cried many days and have asked God why He would choose me for this. I
believe it was to finally get to this place. To a place where I can move from trial to triumph and help as many people as possible to do the same. This is what I want for YOU. It’s time to
embrace your journey and move from grief to gratitude.
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