Hey there,
I'm not much of a blogger, but there comes a time when the walls we build around our stories need to crumble, revealing the truths we've held close. For those who know me, know I am a private person. Sharing personal struggles isn't my forte, yet I've been navigating a tumultuous health journey that I feel compelled to shed light on.
My health battles don't define me, but they've undeniably shaped the resilient person I am today. From grappling with severe TMJ that left my jaw locked for a year to enduring the incapacitating pain of endometriosis, which led to years of surgeries and most recently, wrestling with Gastroparesis, a condition that has significantly altered my daily life – each hurdle has added layers to my resilience.
Gastroparesis, the stomach's paralysis, has made the simplest tasks more daunting. It's led to a humbling, sobering shift in how I live. Embracing a reality that now involves relying on a feeding tube for survival hasn't been easy. Plans have been paused, and I've grappled with accepting this new normal. Amidst these challenges, there's been one constant solace: photography.
Photography isn't just a hobby; it's been my lifeline. In my new reality, nature through the lens has been my sanctuary. Despite the sacrifices and the altered trajectory of my future travels, chronic illness won't stop my pursuit of what I love. Yes, there will be bumps and hurdles, but capturing the beauty of this world remains my passion.
My illness doesn't define my narrative, but I hope it inspires others battling chronic illness or grappling with their own struggles. You're not alone. Life can be challenging, and it might toss obstacles that seem unbearable. Yet, it's worth chasing your dreams, your passions, even if the path is filled with more obstacles than others face.
This illness, despite its challenges, has gifted me a profound appreciation for life. Live life to the fullest. It's a reminder to cherish every breath and to immerse myself in the beauty that surrounds us. Through these blog posts, I aim to intertwine past experiences, adventures, and ongoing struggles with my illness with the lens of my camera. Nothing will hinder my zest for exploration and the pursuit of the most incredible adventures.
Join me in this narrative where chronic illness doesn't dictate the story but rather serves as a testament to resilience, the pursuit of passion, and the unwavering pursuit of life's breathtaking moments.
