Be strong, stay focused, have a plan–no, this is not another article describing the heroic attributes of one “sully” Sullenberger during that adrenaline-inducing event in the Hudson River!!  The qualities of strength, focus, determination (alright, stubborn righteousness) are all part of the mindset that enabled me to remain whole–not hole.  There were so many obstacles and landmines that could easily have trapped me into a hospital bed, with a hysterectomy as the conclusion to a benign fibroid problem.  WARNING…WARNING…becoming your own patient advocate in a storm of uncertainty, “un”control, rapid change and mini battles (with looming figures in white coats), is quite daunting, indeed.  The struggle was, simply-stated HELLACIOUS!!  My unwillingness to be operated on–with no clear choice afforded to me, save hysterectomy–was the reason that year by year (8 total) that symptomatic fibroid grew to the size of a 6 month fetus.  Now that was one big, fat, huge fibroid.  Acting as your own patient advocate is crucial in any medical treatment plan, but doing this alone is foolhardy.  My ever-present, hand-holding husband joined me every step of this long and winding journey to restoration and sanity, and ultimately to a proper treatment choice.  His support was crucial and absolutely mandatory.  As there are many times that second-guessing your original “gut” feeling (that subtle voice inside) begins to breakdown and weaken your resolve.

Yes, my tenacity was very very important…and my self-advocacy with this health issue…BUT, my pilot during this storm… the guiding wind-beneath-my-wings…is none other than my husband, “Perky” Perkins!!  Ta-Da  Thankyou. “Love you more”….