Why Did I Live?

This is not the likely outcome

It is extremely unlikey that you will survive a massive cerebral hemorrhage. If you do, it is possible you may require nursing care for the rest of your life. The fact that I survived such an event, and recovered enough to become independent as far as self care is a miracle for which I am eternally grateful. It was definitely a terrible ordeal. Occasionally, I have moments of clarity regarding why I lived.

The most obvious reason for my survival was so my children would grow up with their mother. I was six months pregnant and mother to a two year old when I had a stroke at age 35. Of course my husband would have found a substitute, but she would have been just that: a substitute. No one can ever love you the way your own mother does. The babies were often my motivation to keep going during the times I thought I couldn’t. I came home from the hospital in a wheelchair to a newborn and a two year old.

I frequently have opportunities to serve as an inspiration to others. I feel a responsibility to do this when I can.

Just this morning at my weekly wellness meeting I’ve been attending for six years when the topic of fixed vs. growth mind set came up for discussion, the facilitator asked for examples from the group.