At the age of 34, I experienced a life-altering event when an aneurysm ruptured in the right hemisphere of my brain. This catastrophic incident was followed by a stroke impacting my left side, resulting in swelling of my brain.
Now, ten months later, I have undergone eight additional surgeries and faced numerous complications since that fateful night. As I reflect on my journey toward recovery, I realize the invaluable lessons I’ve learned along the way.
The Importance of Family and Friendship
The significance of family support and the reality of true friendships have become clearer to me. Life is unpredictable, and it can shift dramatically in an instant. This experience has taught me to cherish each moment, love more deeply, and express kindness. The value of a goodnight kiss, an extra story before bedtime, or simply saying “I love you” has never felt more profound.
As a mother to a courageous five-year-old boy, who witnessed my collapse, I understand the importance of resilience. He has been a witness to both my struggles and triumphs throughout this ordeal.
The Necessity of Preparedness
One crucial lesson I took from this experience is the necessity of preparedness. While we cannot predict tragedies, such as an aneurysm rupture or other unforeseen events, we can ensure our loved ones are equipped to face the worst-case scenarios.
At the time of my rupture, I was a healthy, single mother juggling a home and career. My biggest concern was simply finding a babysitter for a night out. I had not prepared any legal documents, such as a Living Will, Power of Attorney, or a Last Will and Testament.
When I required emergency surgery to relieve the swelling in my brain, my family was thrust into a difficult situation. They were confronted with questions for which they had no answers: What were my wishes for medical care? How should they manage my finances? What would happen to my son?
Fortunately, I survived, and those tough questions didn’t need immediate answers. After overcoming a significant complication in February 2019, I made it a priority to create a Living Will, a Power of Attorney, and a Last Will and Testament. Now, my family has peace of mind knowing my wishes are documented, and my son will be cared for.
A Call to Action for Parents and Caregivers
To all parents, guardians, and caregivers: my heartfelt advice is to be prepared. Whether you are a single parent, co-parent, or part of a couple, regardless of your age or health status, it is essential to take action. I used to think that legal documents were only for the wealthy, but I learned that they are crucial for anyone wanting to provide clarity for their family.
I encourage you to seek the assistance of a trusted attorney or explore online resources to create these important documents.
In addition, don’t forget the importance of your family and authentic friendships. Love one another fiercely, show kindness, and embrace those you care about a little tighter. We are all on borrowed time. Always take the opportunity to read one more bedtime story, share one more kiss, and say “I love you” before the day ends.
Helpful Resources for Family Planning
For those interested in starting a family, you might find helpful resources at Make A Mom and Healthline, which provides excellent information on home insemination. You can also check BabyMaker’s Home Insemination Kit for additional insights.
Summary
Life can change in an instant, as I learned after surviving an aneurysm rupture and the subsequent challenges that ensued. Through this experience, I discovered the importance of being prepared and ensuring peace of mind for my family. As we navigate life’s uncertainties, let us cherish our loved ones and the moments we share together.
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