Embracing a focus word can offer hope amid medical challenges
How I've found strength and direction as a hemophilia caregiver
The adventure of life is filled with ups and downs. Focusing on a word instead of on New Year’s resolutions can be a powerful practice when navigating a bleeding disorder. A focus word serves as a daily reminder and source of motivation, providing a lens through which to view and respond to various situations. Hope and joy are words I have used during challenging times. It was difficult, but these words helped me maintain a positive outlook and find strength in difficult circumstances.
My sons with hemophilia are older now: Julian is 27 and Caeleb is 17. My role as Julian’s caregiver is long gone, and Caeleb will soon be on his own with his care. I am grateful they come to me with questions and guidance, but they are responsible. Julian and Caeleb will tell stories about difficult times on their hemophilia journey, but their disorder no longer overshadows their lives. I hope the spiritual discipline of utilizing focus words brings them strength as they manage their care.
During difficult periods with hemophilia, I relied on positive words as my focus. My role in the middle of a medical crisis was to find the good in an otherwise painful and seemingly hopeless situation. Even if my heart was breaking at the sight of my son suffering, I did my best to express hope to my family.
Relying on my focus word
Hemophilia has brought many adventures to my life. It’s a journey I wish my boys didn’t have to endure, but I am on it with them. Through all the uncertainties, I rely on my focus word.
Take time this month to consider different words that can help keep you grounded this year. Identify an area in your life that needs some attention, from physical health to caring for a loved one with a bleeding disorder. Hundreds of words can bring comfort and direction.
Sometimes certain seasons of life are focused on a medical condition. It just happens. Finding hope amid difficulty isn’t easy, but it’s possible. Use the struggle to find a word that offers hope for what’s to come. Your chosen word could help this year be the best ever.
I wish you and your family continued strength, resilience, and joy as you navigate the ongoing adventure of life with bleeding disorders. May the coming year bring new opportunities for growth, positive experiences, and a deepening sense of purpose.
Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.
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