14 Comments
User's avatar
Sheryl's avatar

I'm so sorry to hear that. The part about where you live with chronic illness long enough to know you dont see some things coming is so spot on. I've had two new diagnoses this year as well which will both need major surgery so I'm at a loss as to what to do or even how to cry for now. Sending my thoughts to you x

Expand full comment
Kat Harrison's avatar

“Even how to cry for now” is SO REAL. I hadn’t phrased it like that, but you nailed it. I am not sure if I am crying out of grief or anger or relief from possible symptom improvement. Little bit of an emotional hot mess 😂 sending you thoughts right back — two new diagnoses is a lot. 💕

Expand full comment
Sheryl's avatar

Yes, exactly. It's overwhelming. Only another chronically ill person would get it, so I'm grateful you understand too. Sending you so much well wishes.

Expand full comment
Flo's avatar

I will hope everything works out with your next steps. This is definitely tough especially when you’ve been dealing with the condition itself for years now. I can only imagine what’s it like being at this point after trying everything like you said. It sounds like you have a doctor who is collaborative and supportive so I am hoping that continues through this process.

Expand full comment
Kat Harrison's avatar

I think that’s the silver lining in all of this. My surgeon is truly the best, and I’ve had several through the years. I trust him implicitly, so if he says “we are doing this,” I know he sees it as my only option. But it’s just so hard 😭 (thanks for reading, Flo!)

Expand full comment
TGNG2G's avatar

Wow, it's a lot. I'm not sure if you are looking for practical suggestions but we have a neighbor who has a "soft band BAHA" which is fully removable (he was born with only one ear). I don't know if this is an option for your situation, and it is very visible, but you might want to look into is since it won't make issues for MRIs. Good luck with all this and everything!

Expand full comment
Kat Harrison's avatar

It’s so interesting you said that because I do wonder if that’s a possibility for me. I try it out in a few weeks, so I will inquire! Thank you for taking the time to comment and read 💕

Expand full comment
Emrhys Ma's avatar

I’m sorry for the grief that comes with this and hope there are unexpected moments of ease and comfort throughout your next steps 💜

Expand full comment
Kat Harrison's avatar

The anticipatory grief is so vibrant, and I’m trying it hard to concentrate on anything else. But you taking the time to read and comment helps so much.

Expand full comment
Shruti (ChronicallyMeh)'s avatar

I had no idea. I’m learning so much about each of you. I feel your fear, pain and trauma . And completely understand how enormous the grief around this is, and why you may want to delay it.

Expand full comment
Jess Abramson's avatar

Wow, I really felt this. Also, beautifully written!

Expand full comment
Kat Harrison's avatar

I so appreciate you taking the time to read — and glad/not glad it resonated!

Expand full comment
Beatrice Murch (she/her)'s avatar

Sending gentle hugs

Expand full comment
Kat Harrison's avatar

I feel them deeply, thank you 💕

Expand full comment