Looking at myself now, my younger self never would have expected me to be where I am. Recalling my younger years, I remember having anxiety about being alone when I grew up. I always thought I’d have a hard time finding a partner and that my dating life would be…
Columns
“I’m so sorry. What can I do? I am here if you need me.” When we hear bad news about someone we love, most of us struggle to find the right words to comfort the one hurting. Sometimes, the best words are no words at all. It just…
Every family speaks their own language. Mine certainly does. It is like a secret code that is unbreakable outside of our house, used to inform family members how we feel about an issue or event. It is done so subtly that no one else is aware of the information…
The 1980s were my favorite decade. I was in high school, and my music was the most important thing in my life. I practiced hard for auditions in the hopes of making the Texas All-State Band. Life was good. My perception of that decade changed after my first…
Baby Cittie turned a month old on Feb. 18. I’ve noticed that her leg has sported a largish gray spot resembling a bruise since birth. Although it has faded, it still hasn’t gone away entirely. As a first-time mom, I am naturally paranoid. I notice…
Columns
Why Am I So Angry?
In past columns, I discussed my frustrations when anger rears its ugly head out of the shadows of my consciousness and takes hold of me. It isn’t pretty, nor is it the best choice to make. I wasn’t prepared to handle the overwhelming emotions that came over…
In my home these days, hemophilia is like a family member who stops by for a fleeting visit — just long enough to say hello and give a quick hug, but not long enough for a cup of coffee. I hadn’t dared to dream that this situation would…
Columns
Removing Port Number 7
This week, we will consult with the surgeon who will have placed and removed six of my son’s seven port-a-caths. There will not be an eighth foreign object in “MacDonald the Younger’s” body, as it will not see port number eight. His treatment does not require access, and…
Columns
Self-care Isn’t Selfish
When you become a parent, your world instantly changes. Your life focus becomes the child that you have brought into the world. When your child has a chronic condition, the game changes dramatically. Not only are you concerned about the regular milestones that your child may or may…
All of the items I own are covered with breast milk; it’s on my clothes, bedsheets, even my phone. Its subtle sweetness occasionally attracts ants in the same way it appeals to my baby. I find the human body amazing for producing this miracle substance…
Recent Posts
- Growing up before treatments for hemophilia were safe, part 3
- Early prophylaxis tied to less joint damage in severe hemophilia A
- I tell my son, ‘When you’re eating an elephant, take it one bite at a time’
- Holding space for grief and love in the hemophilia community
- Hand swelling is first sign of aquired hemophilia A for new mom: Report