Standing By

When I was first diagnosed with Gastroparesis, there was an excitement with finally knowing what was wrong. After the excitement wore off, I knew I was going to need the love and support of others during the coping period and while I tried to make sense of the diagnosis and of what was to come. I am so grateful for the many people who stood by me during those times. I admit, it wasn't always pretty. I remember when I initially hospitalized after an Endoscopy for malnutrition and dehydration. I also underwent some other test. The put me on the cardio floor and I was, by far, the youngest person on the floor. It was the week before Easter, and who wants to spend a holiday in the hospital. When I was first given something of color to eat, my mom decided to take a picture of me with it. Big deal when you green jello. She joked about how the jello stood out because everything, including myself was so gray. I wasn't healthy. It gave me a chuckle.

On the Friday before Easter, one of the nurses came in and told me that if I was still there on Easter (because there was no timeline for my release), they would set up an Easter Egg Hunt for me. It was so kind and nice of them. Here I was, 23 years old, and having nurses wanting to set things like this up for me. They were great! I was release from the hospital the next day and never did get that egg hunt, but was so grateful for the thought.

There were visits, singing telegrams, shoulders to cry on, milkshake get togethers, and so man other things that let me know people were there for me and would stay with me through this trial.

There were so many people who stood by me through all of this. If I named names, I would surely forget someone. However, I truly want to express my gratitude for the people who helped me through: family, friends, medical staffs, employers and coworkers, church leaders, companions, and so many more. I could not have made it through all of this without you.

I wish I could return the favor to each and everyone. There are two songs that have become theme songs for me. I so badly desire to help others through hard times (facing it with compassion, understanding and reality) because of all the help and support I have received.

 

It is so crazy how true this song is. We will have trials, pains, and hard times. Life is not east, especially when dealing with chronic illnesses. There is always tomorrow and we can always make tomorrow and better day then yesterday or today. We cannot always rely on ourselves. Our strength will not hold up, but with help we can get through. After we cope, we can sing this song. "Lean on Me, when you're not strong. I'll be your friend. I'll help you carry on."

First, I love the video that goes with this song. These children are going through some harsh trials, but look at how happy they are and the joy they are finding. That is a message in and of itself. Next, this expresses my feelings so much. Talk to me. Let me help. It's hard to let your feelings out or to talk about your trials, and I promise I will not turn my back on you because of your trials. I'll be here for you! Third, it is so easy to feel abandoned, alone or forgotten, but I promise you that you are not! There is always someone who cares. If you can't find that someone, remember I am here and I care. These lyrics are so powerful that I wanted to share them with you:

Oh, why you look so sad?

the Tears are in your eyes

Come on and come to me now

Don't be ashamed to cry

Let me see you through

'Cause I've seen the dark side too

When the night falls on you

You don't know what to do

Nothing you confess

Could make me love you less

I'll stand by you

I'll stand by you

I won't let nobody hurt you

I'll stand by you

So, if you're mad, get mad!

Don't hold it all inside

Come on and talk to me now

Hey, what you got to hide?

I get angry too

Well I'm a lot like you

When you're standing at the crossroads

And don't know which path to choose

Let me come along

'Cause even if you're wrong

I'll stand by you

I'll stand by you

I won't let nobody hurt you

I'll stand by you

Take me in into your darkest hour

And I'll never desert you

I'll stand by you

And when, when the night falls on you baby

You're feeling all alone

You won't be on your own

I'll stand by you

I'll stand by you

I won't let nobody hurt you

I'll stand by you

Take me in into your darkest hour

And I'll never desert you

I'll stand by you

Oh, I'll stand by you

I'll stand by you

Lyrics from: http://www.metrolyrics.com/ill-stand-by-you-lyrics-carrie-underwood.html

Once again, a sincere thank you to all those who allowed me to lean on them, and still allow me to do so, during hard times. These songs express my promise to you (and anyone who is reading this). I'll stand by you so please lean and call on me when you need a friend or support. We all need love and support!