Four years ago I was reclining in an intensive care hospital bed, connected to fluids running in and draining out. High on steroids and pain killers I was ecstatic to be allowed to take a few sips of water. I prayed silently to my vital organs. “Heart, kidneys, lungs, please welcome your new partner, a … Continue reading Survivor
Three years after a liver transplant...
Merlin the Peruvian Guinea Pig shuffled over to his cage to greet me. His long fur parted in the middle of his back covered his eyes and toes. It was hard to tell which way he was facing until he moved. Merlin and I were simpatico. I knew what it was like to be a … Continue reading Guinea Pig
In late January of 2000 I was hospitalized for an extended period of time with a perforated large intestine. Diverticulitis had silently crept up without a warning. My internal organs were contaminated with infectious matter. Not a pretty thought. The doctor walked into my hospital room and grimly declared that the bleeding had been stopped, … Continue reading Trusting My Gut Feeling
I see a dermatologist once a year just for a check. It happened that my appointment this year was on Rare Disease Day. The doctor said, “How long has this spot on your face been there?” “I don’t remember,” I said. “I don’t like the look of it.” He left the room and came … Continue reading Rare Disease Day 2016
My Turn 