2 years

So Dec 9 2009 was the date this new journey and new life began.  I came down with H1N1 and my lungs never recovered.  Went on disability and have been home-bound and hospitalized since.  10 hospitalizations in the last year.  Took quite a toll on my body.  I am no longer the active mom/wife/daughter/friend I used to be....I know that at my basic level I am the same person, but having chronic illness and being dependent on steroids for two years does change you.  Not every change has been negative, when I change the lens I look through, I have been able to be home with my daughters instead of working which I love.  I have made several online friends who are more than friends..they are sisters and love me as much as I love them...this happened so quickly and is wonderful and they save me from myself.  I have learned how to be humble and accept help, not an easy task, especially for a type-A personality like me.  I have learned what an amazing community I live in. 

I grew incredibly close with my dad in the year and a half before he died this past July unexpectedly.  This was truly the ultimate gift.  He and I became friends as adults.  I was given a gift and a blessing, one I would not have had had I not been sick.

I have limitations that I do not enjoy living with.  I have pain.  I struggle to breathe daily.  I have Cushings disease and the side effects are hideous.  I don't always feel like myself.  It is not an easy life.  But it is the one I have and I will make the best of it.  I always do.  I have learned how much fight I have in me as I struggle to live the best life I can with these damaged lungs. 

2 years is a long time but this could be my life....or not.....