Renovation Wellness

I had a procedure in December to gauge my progress.

The results were very much in my favor!

No inflammation 30cm into my colon.
For perspective, last April, my procedure showed severe inflammation 30cm up.

A polyp was present. Biopsies showed microscopic inflammation, and the polyp is an inflammatory polyp. Likely a result of chronic inflammation. Nothing of concern, we’ll just continue to monitor.

We also had a follow-up with my neuro-ophthalmologist. I passed all of my tests with flying colors!

No inflammation in either eye.
My vision is 20/20 with my glasses.
We were told, unless any changes occur, don’t come back for 2 years!!

Greg and I were so overcome with joy, we didn’t know what to do with ourselves… For the past 3 years, the majority of news we’ve received regarding my health has been suboptimal.

I had 7 surgeries in 17 months.
9 total procedures in 24 months.
Countless visits, calls, medications, infusions, diets, labs, samples.

We were met with a significant amount of resistance at every turn, which ultimately renewed and strengthened our resolve.

There is still so much that goes on behind the scenes in order to get me up and out the door, but I am so grateful for the progress we’ve made!

We see my surgeon this week to determine next steps.

While it’s challenging to articulate this journey, the primary takeaway is that the good Lord continues to show up and carry us through. 🤍

Apparently, my surgeon and I just can’t seem to get enough of each other…

Managing this disease is like trying to drink out of a fire hose.

It is a constant battle.

There are no days off.

It’s difficult to comprehend how someone who appears to “look” healthy can be riddled with disease. However, illness, pain and suffering are not always evident.

The anchor my faith provides is an unwavering belief that the plan for my life far exceeds my current circumstances.

We are brave because of our fears, not in spite of them.

After 6 months of navigating through insurance bureaucracy, I finally received approval for the infusion dose my GI had originally prescribed.

My visit yielded a very unexpected yet pleasant form of comfort & healing in a non-medicinal manner.

There were two other patients receiving infusions. We quickly discovered that the three of us shared something in common, Crohn’s Disease.

We instantly connected & began sharing our journeys, speaking candidly of the absolute havoc this disease wreaks.

Relating to each other in many ways, likewise, expressing compassion for our differences.

Three perfect strangers who have & continue to face so much uncertainty, developed an immediate bond as a result of it all.

It was an exceptional display of Divine timing.

Instead of flailing around in worst case scenarios, we can reframe our mindset with, “I can’t wait to see what God does next!”
🤍

I used to wish for an easy, smooth life…
I now pray for the strength & perseverance necessary to navigate the journey.
Believe me when I tell you that this past year has been quite the expedition.
Nevertheless, we refuse to shrink in fear.
We refuse to see any problem as too big to solve.
We choose to be filled with hope and determination.
We make our way through the unbearable.
This mindset doesn’t make our situation “easy” it makes it manageable.
It allows us to find a way.
The life I used to wish for is the polar opposite of growth.
It is said that God is more concerned with our development than he is with our comfort. 🤍