Endometriosis

The online dictionary defines endometriosis as the:

"presence of endometrium elsewhere than womb: a medical condition in which the mucous membrane endometrium that normally lines only the womb is present and functioning in the ovaries or elsewhere in the body"

If I had to define it in my one words based on my experience, here is what I would say,

"Endometriosis is a disease that can take your life. No, it won't kill you - or not at least that I know of but it will take your life. The pain from endometriosis is so extreme that your life is changed dramatically and it is taken from you and is replaced with a sedentary, depressing one."

I am tired of endometriosis stealing my life away. I have a great life. I have an amazing husband whose love for me is so great. I have two beautiful, funny, smart and loving children who love me so much. I have an incredible family who is so supportive during this entire difficult time. And then I have all my friends. Friends who check up on me when I don't return phone calls or e-mails and make sure I'm okay.

So I have decided I'm not going to let endometriosis win. I've gained back weight due to comfort eating, steroid treatments, lupron treatments which put me into menopause, tests and tests and tests. Not anymore. I'm back on plan, have lost 14 pounds in these past two weeks and plan on continuing to lose until every last ounce of this weight is gone.

And as far as the rest of my life, I'm trying with all my might to put a smile on my face, have a cheerful heart and do what I can do to make myself not get so depressed.

I appreciate all the prayers and support that everyone has provided. Even if I don't respond to an e-mail or call back, I appreciate it, all of it.

Inside of me there is a small little corner that has a bit of hope left in it. I sent all my information to a specialist named Dr. Redwine who is the leading expert on endometriosis in the nation and happens to practice in Bend. Hopefully soon I will hear whether or not he'll accept me as a patient and be able to do a surgery to remove this awfulness from my body. I'll keep everyone updated on that as well.

Thank you again for loving me and caring for me.