It seems that every time I attempt to begin this blog in earnest, something happens to sidetrack my plans. It feels almost personal at this point. But I am determined to build this into something special.
Currently, I am recovering from a complete hysterectomy that I had on February 27th. The entire process, despite a rather annoying setback, happened quite quickly. Plans were already beginning to be put into place after my very first appointment. Without going into too many gory details, suffice it to say that I’ve been living with some significant issues for many years now. My entire life was scheduled around my uterus. And that’s no exaggeration. Every trip, every plan depended on working around my body’s schedule. I have been trapped at home because of these issues for a very long time. At some point, it became normal. So normal that I guess I didn’t realize how abnormal it was until the look of horror on the doctor’s face as I explained the absolute hell I lived with.
At first it seemed the only issue I had was an enlarged uterus. After surgery, other factors became more evident in the pathology report. Not only was my uterus grossly enlarged (the average is 60-80 grams; mine was 460), it was also filled with polyps and adenomyosis. Add that the unknown ovarian cysts found during surgery, and well, let’s just say it was long overdue. Ladies, listen to your body. And find a doctor that will listen to you and your concerns. Sometimes normal is only normal because it’s been happening so long you’ve forgotten that it isn’t normal.
Recovery has been another adventure all on its own. The first week was probably the most difficult post-op experience I’ve ever had. Compared to those first few days, the last few weeks have seemed liked a nice walk in the park. And while I am still experiencing some surgery related issues, I am hopeful that things are beginning to improve. I’ll see the doctor again in a couple of weeks, and, if all goes well, I should be released completely at that time.
I had planned to spend all those recovery days working away at research for my new book or working on a number of other projects. Like this blog, for example. I think I was a bit overly optimistic in those plans. Most days I’ve barely had the energy for getting out of bed, much less sitting at my desk for hours on end. I’ve slept a lot and enjoyed watching my husband wash the dishes and do the laundry. It’s the little things. But finally, at four weeks post-op, I’m feeling more like myself. I’ve been working on a magazine article (more on that later), and I managed to finish the first part of a passion project. I’ve even managed to write a couple of new poems. Life is beginning to return to some semblance of normalcy. Though I’m quite looking forward to a new normal as far as my health is concerned. It’s nice to be in control of my own destiny again.
Please have patience with me as I try to, once again, bring this blog to life. I have much to share with you! I’m excited to tell you about the new book, Lilith, that I’m working on. And I cannot wait to introduce you to a place that has quickly become so important to me. Of course, there will also be history and mythology and random bits of my life tossed in as well. Thank you for being here.
