Going through what I have has taught me so much about every other aspect of my life and has really opened my eyes to the eternal perspective of matters. I know that this trial is something that I need to go through in order to learn what I need to in order to become the best version of myself that I can. While growing pains can be rough at times, in the end the product is always worth it. That's how I feel about what I'm going through now. I know that this physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual trial I am going through is exactly what I need to be able to teach others how they can endure and enjoy life with their own chronic health condition. I need to go through all that I am to become strong in the necessary areas of my life to be able to do great things.
I've been taking an Intercultural Peace Building class this semester and it has taught me the lessons I need to accept, cope with, and understand what I've been through, what I'm going through, and what I will go through. This class hasn't just taught me how to build peace between other cultures, it's opened my eyes to see how I can build peace within my own heart. What a powerful tool that is! I cannot wait to continue to learn and grow into the Best Lauren I can be and I know that every bump and hole along the way will only make the end destination that much sweeter.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Neurology Appointment
Aloha!
Yesterday I went to Honolulu to have my first consult with a neurologist after being referred by my electrophysiologist (because all of the 2 rounds of testing from my endocrinologist came back normal). Luckily, a friend of mine was able to record a little segment of an attack I had at stake conference a few weeks ago. I was able to show this to my doctor, which he found to be very helpful. He said he can almost guarentee that I don't have epilepsy, but I'm still going to have an MRI with and without contrast and an EEG, just to make sure there's nothing going on with my brain.
He suspects that I may have something called non-epileptic seizures. I've learned that whatever my condition may be, it's not going to be heart or hormone related (electrophysiology or endocrinology). For now, I'm medically in "limbo land", as I like to call it. I'll go in for more testing and keep you all updated as things keep happening! Hopefully whenever I have my next attack, someone will have their cam-corder ready! :)
I know that this trial is a means by which Heavenly Father is preparing me. For the rest of my life, for my future husband and family, and for the great work I will do in my future. This trial has given and continues to give me many great experiences that sand, refine, and build me into a better version of myself. I know everything happens for a reason and I can't wait to see all of the reasons that unfold from this trial. Though this trial has not been easy and has caused a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, I am grateful for the opportunity it presented to turn me into the best Lauren I can be. I could not endure this trial without the support, prayers, and companionship of all those in my life. Thank you so much for teaching me what being Christlike to those in need means.
Aloha!
Yesterday I went to Honolulu to have my first consult with a neurologist after being referred by my electrophysiologist (because all of the 2 rounds of testing from my endocrinologist came back normal). Luckily, a friend of mine was able to record a little segment of an attack I had at stake conference a few weeks ago. I was able to show this to my doctor, which he found to be very helpful. He said he can almost guarentee that I don't have epilepsy, but I'm still going to have an MRI with and without contrast and an EEG, just to make sure there's nothing going on with my brain.
He suspects that I may have something called non-epileptic seizures. I've learned that whatever my condition may be, it's not going to be heart or hormone related (electrophysiology or endocrinology). For now, I'm medically in "limbo land", as I like to call it. I'll go in for more testing and keep you all updated as things keep happening! Hopefully whenever I have my next attack, someone will have their cam-corder ready! :)
I know that this trial is a means by which Heavenly Father is preparing me. For the rest of my life, for my future husband and family, and for the great work I will do in my future. This trial has given and continues to give me many great experiences that sand, refine, and build me into a better version of myself. I know everything happens for a reason and I can't wait to see all of the reasons that unfold from this trial. Though this trial has not been easy and has caused a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, I am grateful for the opportunity it presented to turn me into the best Lauren I can be. I could not endure this trial without the support, prayers, and companionship of all those in my life. Thank you so much for teaching me what being Christlike to those in need means.
Aloha!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Tsunami
Hey Everyone!
I just wanted to post a quick message before I have to evacuate. The big earthquake in Japan caused a tsunami to head straight for Hawaii. It's scheduled to hit around 3 AM. We had a big Hale (that's the Hawaiian name for House and is what they call dorm buildings) meeting a little bit ago where they told us to pack essential bags and await further notification. It's expected that everyone on the first floor is to move to the second floor unless the reports come in saying we need to get to even higher ground.
This is a really exciting time! I feel like surviving a tsunami is a rite of passage for living in Hawaii! I'm not scared for it to come; I'm fairly confident nothing terrible will happen. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason, so come what may!
I'm also terribly grateful that the big tsunami warnings are going on while my mother is fast asleep, unaware, as I'm positive she would be worried beyond worried over something that's going to turn out to be nothing.
I'm so very grateful for all I have been given in this life. For the peace and comfort Heavenly Father has so generously blessed me with as I go through my medical trial and also tonight, with the tsunami watch. There is no greater possession to have during a natural disaster than peace and comfort. There is no better companion that the Lord. I know that He is always with me, giving me the strength to do the things I cannot do on my own, and placing people in my life to act as His physical stand in. I know that He sends ordinary people into the lives of others to do simple things that are extraordinary to the recipient. I like to think of these people as the, "angels among us". Thank you for being an angel in my life.
I just wanted to post a quick message before I have to evacuate. The big earthquake in Japan caused a tsunami to head straight for Hawaii. It's scheduled to hit around 3 AM. We had a big Hale (that's the Hawaiian name for House and is what they call dorm buildings) meeting a little bit ago where they told us to pack essential bags and await further notification. It's expected that everyone on the first floor is to move to the second floor unless the reports come in saying we need to get to even higher ground.
This is a really exciting time! I feel like surviving a tsunami is a rite of passage for living in Hawaii! I'm not scared for it to come; I'm fairly confident nothing terrible will happen. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason, so come what may!
I'm also terribly grateful that the big tsunami warnings are going on while my mother is fast asleep, unaware, as I'm positive she would be worried beyond worried over something that's going to turn out to be nothing.
I'm so very grateful for all I have been given in this life. For the peace and comfort Heavenly Father has so generously blessed me with as I go through my medical trial and also tonight, with the tsunami watch. There is no greater possession to have during a natural disaster than peace and comfort. There is no better companion that the Lord. I know that He is always with me, giving me the strength to do the things I cannot do on my own, and placing people in my life to act as His physical stand in. I know that He sends ordinary people into the lives of others to do simple things that are extraordinary to the recipient. I like to think of these people as the, "angels among us". Thank you for being an angel in my life.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Aloha!
I spent yesterday in town (Honolulu) at the hospital going to doctor appointments. I received the test results from testing done by my endocrinologist, which all came back normal. I was told my said doctor that whatever it is I have, it is not filed under "endocrinology" and there is nothing she can do to help me.
I also saw my electrophysiologist, Dr. Chun, whom I have been seeing since October. He said that there are no more treatment options for me and he's seriously wondering if I even have POTS. He's referring me to a neurologist. He says that it's quite possibly and probably something else, though if it is POTS, my current condition is the best any kind of treatment can provide for me. Fingers are crossed it's something else.
Yesterday I felt like the little birdy in the children's book, Are You My Mother? Are you my doctor? The good news is, I now have two more "-ologists" crossed off of the list.
I know everything happens for a reason and the answer will come, in time. Until then I am so very grateful for the uplifting, encouraging, supportive people in my life. Mahalo!
I spent yesterday in town (Honolulu) at the hospital going to doctor appointments. I received the test results from testing done by my endocrinologist, which all came back normal. I was told my said doctor that whatever it is I have, it is not filed under "endocrinology" and there is nothing she can do to help me.
I also saw my electrophysiologist, Dr. Chun, whom I have been seeing since October. He said that there are no more treatment options for me and he's seriously wondering if I even have POTS. He's referring me to a neurologist. He says that it's quite possibly and probably something else, though if it is POTS, my current condition is the best any kind of treatment can provide for me. Fingers are crossed it's something else.
Yesterday I felt like the little birdy in the children's book, Are You My Mother? Are you my doctor? The good news is, I now have two more "-ologists" crossed off of the list.
I know everything happens for a reason and the answer will come, in time. Until then I am so very grateful for the uplifting, encouraging, supportive people in my life. Mahalo!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Aloha!
After MUCH encouraging, I am finally starting my own blog to help keep my loved ones informed of my paradisaical life, here at BYU-Hawaii. I haven't been up to too much lately; a lot of resting due to episodes from my POTS. I go to town (Honolulu) on Tuesday to see my electrophysiologist and endocrinologist.
I've been very blessed to always have people around me to help and support me whenever I am in need; the Lord is definitely looking after me. (So no one should be worrying about me or my health).
Tomorrow is Culture Night at BYUH. All of the ethnic clubs put on a dance from their culture. I am so excited to go see all of the dancers and their costumes! It's a big annual event here.
I love living in great cultural diversity! While at times it can be frustrating and confusing, for the most part, I can't get enough of it! I thoroughly enjoy soaking in everything I'm learning from everyone around me. For instance, from the Tongans I have learned the true meaning of "sharing and caring". All of my Tongan friends are genuinely so willing to give to another of all they have and always do it with a smile and touch on the shoulder that explodes with their love. Everyday I strive to adapt this cultural quality into my own life.
In the beginning of the school year, I wasn't terribly comfortable with the whole "hug and rub cheeks while making the kissy sound" greeting that was so prominent in quite a few cultures present on campus. I recognized as something cultural, so I would go along with it, but cringe on the inside. We Americans love our personal space. As the first semester progressed, I began not cringing. I even quite putting my hand out when meeting new poly's (Polynesian people). As this new semester has been passing, I can proudly say I am now comfortable with this common greeting and even make the kissy sound! I've come to really prefer this form of greeting, especially when it's greeting guys. :) In all honesty, I've found this initial greeting brings a much greater warmth and intimacy (not in the romantic sense) to the conversations that follow.
This past week it's been raining a real tropical rain. I LOVE the rain! I am now the proud owner of a very cute pair of rainboots, covered in multi-colored flowers. It's so soothing to hear the sound of rain outside me window. A lullaby from God second only to the ocean.
Before I talk your ear off, I'll sign off! More to come in the future...feel free to comment and communicate with me via this blog! Any blog or life advice I am open to!
Aloha!
I've been very blessed to always have people around me to help and support me whenever I am in need; the Lord is definitely looking after me. (So no one should be worrying about me or my health).
Tomorrow is Culture Night at BYUH. All of the ethnic clubs put on a dance from their culture. I am so excited to go see all of the dancers and their costumes! It's a big annual event here.
I love living in great cultural diversity! While at times it can be frustrating and confusing, for the most part, I can't get enough of it! I thoroughly enjoy soaking in everything I'm learning from everyone around me. For instance, from the Tongans I have learned the true meaning of "sharing and caring". All of my Tongan friends are genuinely so willing to give to another of all they have and always do it with a smile and touch on the shoulder that explodes with their love. Everyday I strive to adapt this cultural quality into my own life.
In the beginning of the school year, I wasn't terribly comfortable with the whole "hug and rub cheeks while making the kissy sound" greeting that was so prominent in quite a few cultures present on campus. I recognized as something cultural, so I would go along with it, but cringe on the inside. We Americans love our personal space. As the first semester progressed, I began not cringing. I even quite putting my hand out when meeting new poly's (Polynesian people). As this new semester has been passing, I can proudly say I am now comfortable with this common greeting and even make the kissy sound! I've come to really prefer this form of greeting, especially when it's greeting guys. :) In all honesty, I've found this initial greeting brings a much greater warmth and intimacy (not in the romantic sense) to the conversations that follow.
This past week it's been raining a real tropical rain. I LOVE the rain! I am now the proud owner of a very cute pair of rainboots, covered in multi-colored flowers. It's so soothing to hear the sound of rain outside me window. A lullaby from God second only to the ocean.
Before I talk your ear off, I'll sign off! More to come in the future...feel free to comment and communicate with me via this blog! Any blog or life advice I am open to!
Aloha!
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