I am one of the most Blessed people I know~! I am here to witness so much love and friendship...and it is such a wonderful gift to have them both in my life~!!!
I have been asked by many, what happened to me, and why I was in the hospital....I have been thinking of how best to respond...and this seems to be it.
I had not felt well for some time, but put it off to the autoimmune disfunctions I live with on a daily basis, just flaring up; along with not pacing myself, and considering my own needs, as much as I do others. Then, last week, I contracted a virus. I was so miserable, but knew it was a temporary thing...so I just prayed each day for strength to make it through the day. God has never failed me...and I knew I was not alone in this time of great pain.
I went to the Dr on Monday morning, expecting to only have an IV to rehydrate me, and some blood work to check stats...well, that was not to be. I got the privilege to be taken by the Aid Car of the Mulkiteo Fire Department, and three of there fine personnel, to Providence Hospital, in Everett.
There I was taken directly to a room, no long waiting for me...I was given VIP service it felt like...and everyone was so attentive and caring...God knew my needs again, as I have been in the hospital too many times under very stressful conditions. This was such a different experience~for which I am so thankful to have experienced. It shifted my perspective and gave me a calmness through the severe pain.
It turned out I had a NoroVirus, that had infected one of my heart valves, and also the small intestine. That set in motion the severe dehydration that was followed by Acute renal failure, sinus bradycardia, Atrial Fibrillation,and a very rapid ventricular rate...along with the gastroenteritis,was adrenal gland enlargement along with diverticulosis; and the fibromyalgia flare, to exacerbate into a full blown meltdown for my central nervous system. I was a stroke waiting to happen, and still am, so I am told, by the wonderful physician that attended me in the hospital.
I was released late yesterday afternoon, to come home, where I would be in a safer enviroment to heal; and I was so happy for that gift~! I missed Glen and the nature that normally bring me comfort and joy each day. I definitely don't take those gifts for granted, but felt very selfish in wanting to return to them~!
Today, I have slept and attempted to come communicate a few times...it is so nice to have this electronic connection to my family and friends~ it was amazing to me to see just how many people have shared with me during this, and the out pouring of love, and offering of help and assistance, for any needs~!!! Again, I am so Blessed... with Gifts from God's Love...shown through my fellow friends and family~!!!!
I return to the PCP on Tuesday, for further testing, and review of baseline information. Then, I will be seeing a cardiac specialist for the heart valve, to discuss the treatment plan, and procedures from that prospective.
I have every reason to believe that this was a wake-up call for me to focus more on taking care of myself, instead of being the caretaker for others...putting myself in the position I usually give others. It is very humbling to me to think of this with a new perspective of selfness for self care~!
So, I come to each of you today, and ask that you consider your health issues, and the need to attend to them with loving care...and not to ignore your own needs. Treat yourself with the attention and love you give to your family and friends...YOU are important to God and the Universe,, or you would not have the opportunity to be here to share~!
It is a Divine Gift to have this Opportunity of a Journey called Life~ It is to be lived with a gusto, and appreciation, many of us have let go of, or forgotten, due to the responsibilities we have placed upon ourselves.
So, It is with Much Love I say, I am so Grateful for Life's Gifts, I have been given, and still receive...LOVE being the Most Precious, from God, Our Creator, and from Each of YOU that Brighten my Days~!!!!
With a Joy-filled Heart, Deborah