Today is my Birthday. I’m now 24. 24 years old... where has time gone?
The past weeks have not been easy. I’ve been stressed and emotional. Been dealing with school and other personal issues, but I’m hanging in there and I know that everything will work out as it should in the end.
Every birthday since I have been older, though I’m not old, I’ve looked back at everything I’ve overcome. I remember the good times, the bad times, trails I’ve gotten through, and the triumphs. I have been through more in my short 24 years than most people will ever go through in their lifetime. I can say the things I’ve been through, my experiences especially living with a life threatening Congenital Heart Defect or “Half a Heart” has had a big impact on the person I am today. I’m very proud of the person I am.
Today is another milestone. Today is a day to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future. I don’t know what my future holds, but I will take one day at a time (I say this a lot, but it's true). I know it will include more challenges especially medically, but I know it will include great things too. I graduate college in December and I plan on marrying Chris in the near future… I’m using my knowledge of what it’s like to be in the hospital, my degree in Psychology, and my love for children to become a Child Life Specialist at a Children’s Hospital. I have so much to look forward to despite my not so easy life living with a chronic illness.
I will never stop spreading CHD Awareness, telling my story, spreading Hope and inspiration, and being a support to others. From doing these things I receive priceless gifts of meeting amazing people, kindness, support, hope, inspiration, and so much more.
Thank you for everyone that has been in my life in some way, you have played a part in the person I am today. To my personal heroes: my parents, my doctors, and my surgeons who are the reason I’m here today… there are no words to express how thankful I am to them… I much I love them and how much I’m grateful.
Though things have not been easy (health wise, family, school, etc), I’m blessed and super grateful for everyone and everything.
Today I’m 24. Today is a special day for me.
Me on my 1st Birthday
Me back in June
♥
