I often stare at myself in the mirror and do not recognize the reflection staring back.
I see a body that is so different from the one I had five years ago. I see a chest and a torso covered in scars from drainage tubes, open-heart surgeries, and countless other surgical procedures. My once bright eyes are tired and fatigued. My oxygen and feeding tubes feel foreign on my skin.
It’s easy for me to pick myself apart and think about what I wish I could change. But wishing that things were different won’t change my situation. It won’t erase my scars or the tubes I wish weren’t coming out of my body. Instead of looking at myself and wishing it all away, I am choosing to practice giving thanks, especially this month.
This website is an educational resource. It is not intended to provide medical advice or recommend a course of treatment. You should discuss all issues, ideas, suggestions, etc. with your clinician prior to use. Clinicians in a relevant field have reviewed the medical information; however, the Oley Foundation does not guarantee the accuracy of the information presented, and is not liable if information is incorrect or incomplete. If you have questions please contact Oley staff.
Updated in 2015 with a generous grant from Shire, Inc.
This website was updated in 2015 with a generous grant from Shire, Inc. This website is an educational resource. It is not intended to provide medical advice or recommend a course of treatment. You should discuss all issues, ideas, suggestions, etc. with your clinician prior to use. Clinicians in a relevant field have reviewed the medical information; however, the Oley Foundation does not guarantee the accuracy of the information presented, and is not liable if information is incorrect or incomplete. If you have questions please contact Oley staff.