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Oct 10

Good moments can be found even in times of turmoil – Examiner Enterprise

Lose Weight Safely Comments Off on Good moments can be found even in times of turmoil – Examiner Enterprise

Denise McKinnon| E-E- Columnist

A year ago, I was a pretty sick lady. In late July, inflammation in my body went off the charts and my optic nerves swelled, putting my eyesight in jeopardy. What followed was a biopsy of an artery in my head, a CAT scan, lumbar puncture, and an MRI. It also meant monthly eye doctor's appointments, blood tests, and 11months of prednisone. A LOT of prednisone.

All that prednisone did crazy things to my body and my emotions. I gained a bunch of weight, my face swelled, I had a hunch on my back, and was weak almost all of the time. I didn't look like me, and barely felt like me. Some days I couldn't drive because I was fatigued and couldn't see. Sometimes my eyes were so blurry I had to just close them and wait until it cleared a little.Every day felt like a fight.

I found my way to a specialist who was able to figure it all out, and in June of this year I was able to finally get off prednisone. I'm slowly getting my strength and my life back. This past week I went to the eye doctor and found out my prescription only changed a little bit since my last exam. It actually changed only one "click."I was overjoyed and so thankful to God and everyone who stood by me! When hard times come and family and friends stick by you, is the best feeling in the world.

My brother, Matt, flew in to take care of me after the biopsy in August of 2019, and encouraged us for the fight ahead. My kids and their families adjusted during visits and did a lot of sitting and visiting, because that's all I could do. I received lots of prayers and encouragement from my mom, brothers, sisters and extended family. They always contacted me at just the right time and would lift my spirits.

My husband, Mark, was my caregiver and cheerleader. If the only good thing was that my eyes weren't too blurry that day, he'd thank God for it. If I cooked once or twice in a two-week period, he'd say thank you for making the effort. When I was up and down at all hours of the night due to steroids, he ignored that I was interrupting his sleep too with my cleaning. He did ask that I not do dishes or vacuum in the middle of the night, but I get that. We have an old house and noise carries!

My work family is so supportive and made sure that everything was covered. They filled in the gaps and gave me much grace when I needed it most. They've been champions and solution-oriented every step of the way. I appreciate who they are very much.

I know that things don't always work out like they did for me this time. Our nation has seen a lot of loss this year. Family members and friends have died due to illness, accidentsand COVID-19. People have lost jobs and relationships due to the stress. Cities have been burned and vandalized because of hate, anger, and in the name of activism.You know what though? In that moment when Dr. Foust said, "You don't have to get new glasses unless you just want to. Your prescription is pretty much the same," my heart soared. I was joyful and thankful, and it felt good to focus on a good thing.

Let's remember to look for those moments. They are still here, we just have to find them. I was sitting in my recliner one night wondering if I'd ever be me again. I was starting to lose hope. Mark said, "It's OK,babe! You're getting better every day, even when we can't see it." I wondered, did he really think that? Was it true? So I'd agree with him with my words, and in my heart, and pushed through another day. I am getting stronger now and though I'm still slow, I'll get there. I'm losing weight and feeling like me again. The turnaround has begun.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you," says the lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." A future and a hope. You can trust that God wants good things for you and is working on your behalf even in the middle of trials and hard times.

My wish for you is that you find joy in your day today and it gives you hope that you are going to make it, no matter what you are going through. May you be blessed and your turnaround be soon.

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Good moments can be found even in times of turmoil - Examiner Enterprise

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