*WARNING: THIS POST CONTAINS GRAPHIC CONTENT*
Once upon a time, there was a girl named Meleah. She was a free-spirited, good-time-having, happy-go-lucky, kind of girl, filled with whimsical hopes and dreams. She lived to laugh. And she liked to imagine a world with endless possibilities.
But then one day, everything changed.
First she got sick.
And then she got sicker.
And then everything went to hell.
Because of these annoying medical conditions, Meleah has good days. And Meleah has bad days. But as of late, Meleah has had more bad days, than good days.
And this makes Meleah really, really, really, sad.
And very, very, very, frustrated.
But mostly – really, really, really, sad.
Because Meleah can no longer enjoy a lot of the things she once loved doing. And her days of being a free-spirited, good-time-having, happy-go-lucky, kind of girl, filled with whimsical hopes and dreams, have since become a faded memory.
Meleah spent countless nights, hopelessly crying, and wallowing in self-pity. Pangs of rage filled her clenched fists and she cursed the heavens above.
Except Meleah doesn’t like to dwell in those dark places.
Mostly because, Meleah is scared of the dark. And dwelling takes up entirely too much energy.
So, Meleah searched for an outlet because she desperately needed a coping mechanism, aside from obsessively making her bed. And a coping mechanism that could provide some level of comfort and possibly even a glimmer of happiness.
At first, Meleah wasn’t sure if she could express her true feelings, or fully divulge the reality of her annoying medical conditions, because unlike some other crazy people wandering around the Internet, Meleah does not use her annoying medical conditions as a means for seeking attention, or to gain sympathy. In fact the term, “Poor, Meleah” makes her cringe.
However, wrestling with those enormously overwhelming feelings, slowly began to crush her soul. So Meleah had to do something, and she had to do something quickly, in order to stop circling the emotional drain.
And then…
One day, about a year ago, Meleah decided to try and ‘Find The Funny’ surrounding one of her health issues.
Instead of hiding in her bed, sobbing hysterically, and drowning in a sea of shame, Meleah took a chance when she posted one of her most horrifying experiences, publicly.
And even though it mostly focused on women’s issues and not necessarily her annoying medical conditions, that very post, opened one very important door for Meleah. Because something miraculous happened when Meleah realized there were so many people capable of identifying with her. But even more importantly, she realized there were so many people willing to laugh WITH her.
Especially when she received comments like these:
“There is no such thing as TMI! Our mothers never warned us what the female body is truly capable of so we are scared and ashamed of it until someone who lives the TMI lifestyle pops on the subject. Then suddenly the clouds part and everything makes sense and we are at one and embrace them. Whoever said Meleah’s posts weren’t educational AND hysterical?”
And that comment was extremely important to Meleah.
* Because it took away the power of humiliation, immediately. *
And that’s when Meleah thought, maybe, just maybe, I should do this more often? And then she thought, maybe it’s my civic duty to keep the men and women in my life well informed, about real issues, with real descriptions, no matter how embarrassing and or disgusting they might be?
And from that moment on Meleah decided she would never be too afraid, or too ashamed, to post anything online again. And that’s how she first became known as ‘The Queen’ of too much information.
Over these past few months, Meleah has been facing yet another challenging health crisis. Maybe even the toughest health crisis she’s ever had to face. And she really wasn’t sure if she should talk about it, in graphic detail, on her blog?
It’s gross. It’s depressing. And most people would probably keep these kinds of topics and these kinds of issues a private matter. And sometimes Meleah worries that people are getting sick of hearing about her being sick, because she’s certainly sick of talking about being sick. And she’s definitely sick of being sick.
* And also, she is tired of receiving unsolicited advice, from uninformed people. *
So Meleah didn’t write about what’s been happening.
At least not here.
Meleah only posted a few things on Flickr and Facebook with status updates and photos. But Meleah has a lot of blogging friends, who really care about her, that are NOT on Flickr and Facebook. And they’ve been asking a lot questions about her extended absences online. And they’ve been asking a lot of questions about her annoying medical conditions.
Normally, Meleah does not feel compelled to explain any of her absences to anyone. However, because she loves and respects her friends so very much, she’s going to dive right in, and give up all the gory details.
And, also…
* Because it takes away the power of humiliation, immediately. *
A few months ago, Meleah was sent for all kind of tests and all kinds of exams. And that’s when Meleah learned several new medical terms, most of which she couldn’t pronounce, let alone spell. And then she was introduced to an extensive team of special doctors, working round the clock, in order to get a handle on these issues.
Luckily, she found the worlds greatest General Practitioner, who oversees the other specialists while doling out Urgent Care and Vitamin Injections on a weekly basis. Meleah also has a Rheumatologist for Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Sjogren’s Syndrome, a Gastroenterologist for Crohn’s Disease, an Endocrinologist for Hashimoto Thyroiditis, and an Immunologist/Allergist for her intense anaphylaxis and angioedema reactions to food, because she is allergic to all of the foods on this list.
Meleah knows that was a whole lot of information in the paragraph above. And it probably requires at least one more punctuational period somewhere in there. Meleah also knows it’s a whole lot of information which probably doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, to people without autoimmune diseases. But that’s okay. Because that’s not entirely why she brought you here today. Except that it kind of is.
Speaking of autoimmune diseases, unfortunately, because of the severity of Meleah’s annoying medical conditions, she is typically scheduled for 2-5 different doctor appointments, every single week. Which doesn’t leave very much time for anything else, like writing or reading blog posts, or replying to emails, or even answering text messages. Autoimmune diseases are not like having a cold, where once it’s over, you get better.
There are no cures.
There are only treatments and medications.
Lots, and lots, and lots of medications.
Which work. Sometimes.
Except when they don’t.
And some of those medications are immune suppressants, which only puts Meleah at a much higher risk for getting infections, such as strep throat, the flu, bronchitis, etcetera. And since she spends most of her time inside doctor offices WITH ALL OF THE OTHER SICK PEOPLE, she is forever suffering from some kind of aliment.
So when December rolled around, Meleah just thought she had some type of stomach virus, which is totally plausible, considering she’s always in doctor offices WITH ALL OF THE OTHER SICK PEOPLE. And because she hadn’t experienced an episode with Crohns in over eighteen months, it was the furthest thing from her mind.
Until….
After three days of explosive and uncontrollable intestinal issues, I started expelling blood clots. Actual blood clots, like you get from a really bad period. Only they came from my asshole and they were the size of my fist, for five hours. At 9am, I was admitted to the hospital, via ambulance, where I continued to expel blood clots, every 15 minutes, for another 20 hours, in a row, while receiving intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and intravenous painkillers. Three days later, when the bleeding subsided, and tests were completed, I was released from the hospital and referred back to my gastrointestinal doctor. I was placed on a clear liquid diet and I scheduled for a full GI work up.
Meleah wants you to know that she temporarily freaked out after posting her saga and that photo on Flickr for the whole wide world to see. And then Meleah considered deleting it altogether. But then, she received this email from one of her friends:
“You may be poor in health, but you’re definitely rich with friends. And you reward them with the sort of openness and complete honesty that people can’t help but admire…and be in awe of, frankly. Your mind, as it always was, is sharp as a knife and powerful as a jet engine, your body will catch back up soon.”
And that made Meleah cry, happy tears, for the first time in weeks, because even after she revealed the most disgusting details surrounding a crohns attack, she was magically freed from the shackles of shame.
* Because it took away the power of humiliation, again. *
A few short days later and still suffering from severe intestinal issues, Meleah had to face yet another degrading act, all in the name of her annoying health issues.
But this time…
She decided to be bolder, and braver, than she’d ever been.
And she went ahead and posted this on Facebook.
The gastrointestinal doctor needs a special “sample” in order to rule out a specific infection before he can schedule my colonoscopy & endoscopy. These are the proper “supplies” to handle my morning business. I seriously cannot believe I have to set an alarm clock, only to shit in a bucket, and transport it back to the hospital for testing, before 10am. WHO ELSE CAN SAY THAT? And I am such a nervous wreck, even my vagina is sweaty. Anyone wanna trade lives for a day?
For a very brief moment, Meleah worried she may have pushed the TMI envelope a little too far, even for her. But she was wrong. And she knew she was wrong when she saw these comments:
“You just made my morning with that comment and picture, even though I was reading it while having my breakfast.”
“I know I am not suppose to be laughing but how you worded everything is a trip.”
“I don’t know how you hold on to your sense of humor. You’re amazing.”
“This just made my day and I really needed the laugh. Also, I totally would take one for the team and trade you for a day. I’m such a giver.”
“Vagina sweating? I have been there. Tell it to stop being such a pussy.”
And with that, Meleah was able to carry her own bag of shit, into that hospital, with her head held high, and a smile on her face.
* Because posting in on the Internet took away the power of humiliation, again. *
And not only that, but Meleah discovered she had amazing friends willing trade lives for a day. And she also discovered she is lucky enough to have friends that are willing to admit really embarrassing things about themselves too.
And that makes me Meleah feel like she’s not alone.
And that makes Meleah a lot less sad.
After three weeks of non-stop diarrhea, and losing 16 pounds, Meleah was scheduled for her colonoscopy.
She knew exactly what she was going to have to deal with. And she knew exactly what the outcome would be when the results came back, because Meleah has colonoscopies every six months. Nevertheless, drinking that god-awful prep the night before a colonoscopy is NEVER a good time, for anyone.
So once again, Meleah called upon her beloved Internet, to see her through another horrible procedure.
Without fail, Meleah’s friends managed to make her laugh when they said things like…
“I just read that as “Super Bowl Party Prep Kit.”
“I’ve been thinking about maybe having a Super Bowl party. Could be one hell of a game day margarita!”
“Good thing I usually take time to read the label twice… This doesn’t sound nearly as fun as a Super Bowl party.”
“I don’t see Doritos or onion dip on the package?”
“New nickname for your toilet. Super Bowl.”
And then Meleah took things just a little bit further, when she posted a video of herself drinking the actual colonoscopy prep, mostly because she wanted to keep her promise to her dear friend Kathy.
And also because, why the hell not?
Meleah wasn’t exactly sure how Kathy would respond. But she was totally super happy when she read her reply.
“OMG, Mel!!!!! You are my hero! I said “Oh my God” just before you did, when you poured all that shit in a cup. Loved this!!!! Thank you and wishing you the very best colonoscopy tomorrow. You know, a fun one.”
And even though Meleah was riddled with anxiety the day of her procedure, complete with pit stains and vaginal sweat, at least Meleah had Kathy’s comment, “you’re my hero,” to think about about, right before they knocked her out with propofol.
When Meleah returned home from her colonoscopy, she slept, and slept, and slept, like she hadn’t slept in years.
But when she awoke the following day, her face felt very strange. As if she’d been punched in the mouth. And when she ran over to the mirror, she was greeted with an unpleasant reflection.
It was the very same reflection she saw the day after she was released from the hospital.
![Apparently any time my body goes through any sort of trauma [such as hospitalization and/or colonoscopy] because of my annoying medical conditions, my immune system immediately kicks into over drive and releases excessive amounts of histamine throughout my blood stream. My body thinks it’s protecting itself, when in reality it’s attacking itself. Thus my giant, fat, puffy, swollen, upper lip. This also sends my body into a Lupus/Rheumatoid flair up causing all of the joints in my hands, knees, and feet, to become inflamed. I was unable to manipulate any utensils, or even hold a cup, let alone type a text message, or a post a facebook status update.](https://mommamiameaculpa.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/allergy-lips-at-home.jpg)
Apparently any time my body goes through any sort of trauma [such as hospitalization and/or colonoscopy] because of my annoying medical conditions, my immune system immediately kicks into over drive and releases excessive amounts of histamine throughout my blood stream. My body thinks it’s protecting itself, when in reality it’s attacking itself. Thus my giant, fat, puffy, swollen, upper lip. This also sends my body into a Lupus/Rheumatoid flair up causing all of the joints in my hands, knees, and feet, to become inflamed. I was unable to manipulate any utensils, or even hold a cup, let alone type a text message, or a post a facebook status update.
Luckily, this happened on a Friday, and Meleah was already scheduled for her weekly Vitamin Injections. After she received a healthy dose of Vitamin B12 they gave her two more injections of Prednisone and Benadryl. And even though Meleah is completely terrified of needles, she was never so happy to get shot in the ass, because her symptoms subsided within a few hours.
Through all of this, the absolute worst thing for Meleah has been the feeling of utter powerlessness. Because there is nothing she can do about any of this. It’s completely out of her control. It doesn’t matter what she eats, or what she doesn’t eat, or how careful she is, or how many nights she stays at home and no longer socializes in real life for fear of getting sick, or how after being poked with so many needles, and prodded with so many Medical Devices, the last thing she wants is to be touched by another human being.
Because even when she IS totally-super-careful, and stays locked inside her own personal bubble, also known as her purple paradise, sometimes she still wakes up in the morning, with a cold, and bronchitis, and a sinus infection, and swollen joints, and an anaphylaxis allergic reaction, for no fucking reason whatsoever.
Seriously? Again? This is the THIRD time in THREE weeks. The day I came home from the hospital = BOOM fat, puffy, lip. The day after my colonoscopy = BOOM fat, puffy, lip. Now I’m sick with bronchitis = BOOM fat, puffy, lip. According to my Medical Team Of Doctors, because my body is in a constant state of PURE distress when ONE thing flairs up – so does EVERYTHING else.
The only thing Meleah has any control over, is her mental state and her emotional reactions to these situations. Except when she doesn’t. And that’s when her family, and friends, and the Internet comes in.
Because through all of this?
The BEST PART has been learning just how lucky she is to have people in her life to help ‘Find The Funny’ even when she can’t.
And even more people to hold her hand, and tell her everything will be okay, when she needs it the most.
Meleah will continue to share entirely too much information.
And she will continue to post disgusting photos.
* Because it continues to take away the power of humiliation *
And also… because it makes her laugh. And laughter really is the best medicine.
Thank you, Internet.
For loving me unconditionally.
I love you too.
I would never be able to handle this without all of your friendships.
Lastly, now that you’ve been completely informed with respects to Meleah’s annoying medical conditions, she worked really hard to put together this Video Montage of what it’s really like, Living With Autoimmune Diseases, accompanied by a kick-ass soundtrack.
Please enjoy.
Oh my gosh, my friend. I had an idea, but I didn’t have the details. And while you don’t want the whole, “You’re so brave” and “I can’t believe how strong you are” spiel, you’re getting it because you deserve it. There IS no shame in anything, and every comment you get–online and off–is proof that even if your health is poor, your life IS rich with people who love and care about you and everything that comes out of your body 😉
While I most certainly can’t relate to this extent, this is also something I’m struggling with lately–my health and how much to share. I’m pretty open, but there are some things I just keep to myself because I don’t want to sound like it’s an excuse for anything. Plus, distractions are easier, right? Ha. My point is that I’m so glad you’re being so open with this. It’s such a relief to just put it all out there and use the support that’s there. Hang in, there!
I fucking love every bit of your TMI-ness… mainly because I think its probably the best and healthiest way to cope. I think human nature would have us keep all that to ourselves and then go crazy slowly, with no one to share anything with… until we found ourselves rocking in a corner or seeing a therapist 5 days a week.
So keep on being you… and keep on being sane. We’d have it no other way. ?
PS – How did I miss your Prep Shot video??? You really are a trooper.
PSS – Did I mention how much I love you?
Oh, Mo!!
I love you SOFA KING much too. And if I didn’t have You, Mary, and Sarah, cheering me on all the time, and sharing TMI with me, I would NEVER be able to get through all of this.
I am blessed to have such amazing women in my life.
XOXOX
Abby,
Thank you, with my whole heart, for every word you wrote.
“But there are some things I just keep to myself because I don’t want to sound like it’s an excuse for anything.”
I can honestly say that sharing, especially when your afraid too, has worked miracles for me. And you shouldn’t be afraid to put it all out there either. Strong women like us, need to stick together! And you will be VERY pleasantly surprised with the support that comes your way.
XOXOX
Keep sharing! I have to admit, I do enjoy some of your friends, they are so funny and witty, I get a kick out of your Status posts and then the comments that follow. Wish I could be so witty and charming, all I can offer is some ‘listening’ and virtual ((hugs)) You know, I am better with the venting,ha!ha!
This is an awesome post, and not just because of what you shared, but that you are able to share it. We are usually braver and stronger than we think we are, and you have been tested far more than anyone I can think of. I think it is amazing that not only do you live with these annoying medical conditions and share the details, that you still manage to do it with humor. You are one brave, strong, funny lady. I hope you continue to find joy in life, and humor in everything that life throws at you. Blessings…
Thank you so much for your kind words, Linda. That really means a lot to me. I know this is a MONSTER sized post and I truly appreciate you taking the time to read it all. XOXO
Awwww. Thank you, Lucy!
And you’re the best “venter” in all of the land!
🙂
you are truly an inspiration to me at every turn.. the amount of strength it takes to make your journey daily overwhelms me.. i have been in love with you from the first day we met,,over six years ago… i cherish every piece of what you refer to as TMI,, as if they were love letters written especially for me,, and rejoice in your open honest and more often than not spirit lightening portrayals of your daily trials.. you could never provide me with TMI.. girl i am now,, as i have always been,, all ears… i love you!! xxoo
You, my dear, are the Empress of TMI. And I wouldn’t want it any other way. You never pull any punches, no holds barred, but never in search of sympathy. And through it all, you have never lost your gift of words and humor. You can “find the funny” and articulate it like no one else. While you have been delt one crappy hand after another (no pun intended), you are blessed with a wonderful family, and great friends, to help you cope. You are stronger than you know, and even though you’re tired of being strong, I know you will continue to be, with a little help from your friends. Never give up-Never give in. I love you woman.
Jimmy, you have been such an important part of my life over these past 2-3 years. I treasure our friendship so much. I love our late night texts and how you keep me company when I am up all night writing, or even when I am up all night sick and miserable.
You’ve been a constant source of support, love, and laughter. I am sofa king blessed.
Also, thank you again, with my whole heart, for being my “tester” for my autoimmune movie.
XOXOXO
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!! Jodi!!!!!!!!
Your comment brought happy tears to my eyes.
I have been in love with you since the day we first met 6 years ago, too!
And, I want you to know that I am TOTALLY here for you, when and if you need an ear, a hand to hold, or just a big fat hug, to get you through your own health issues.
HEART. HEART. HEART.
I think of you often, Meleah. Whenever I’m feeling down or depressed, you remind me of the possibility of a life full of fun, despite all the obstacles. We make that choice, it’s in our hands to either let it control us, or to free ourselves from its grasp. You’ve certainly done that. I love how you share as much as you do, especially because it takes away its power. I felt that way when I started blogging, sometimes about very embarrassing things that happened to me. Things that affected my life when I was younger and kept me from living a fuller life. Writing about it decades later erased all the pain of shyness, of feeling left out. I overcame the way that made me feel, even years later, by writing it all out. It freed me from the shackles and gave me a new outlook. I imagine how hard it was to look at all those pictures again that you put in your video, but it was an amazing chronicle of your journey and I hope you feel uplifted and unburdened by doing it. You are one of the strongest people I know. We can all learn a lesson from you. Give teddy a hug from me!
Kathy,
You have NO IDEA how much your words mean to me. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
“Writing about it decades later erased all the pain of shyness, of
feeling left out. I overcame the way that made me feel, even years
later, by writing it all out. It freed me from the shackles and gave me a
new outlook.”
Isn’t it absolutely amazing how writing about those things truly frees you from the pain and the shame?
While making that video montage at the end of this blog post, was extremely difficult, it was also highly therapeutic, because I found myself laughing out loud. Especially at the “AT LEAST I MATCH WINNIE THE POOH” photo in the children’s ward.
Speaking of bears, I LOVE MY TEDDY so much. Thank you for sending him to me. It’s absolutely perfect for much needed cuddles.
XOXOXO
Hey, my sweet friend. I really think you could get a book deal. There are so many people out there suffering similar ailments who haven’t learned how to fight them with humor as you do. And you ARE a hero! Put together a proposal and sample chapter and start hustling! I want to see you on the Today Show! Big hugs!
Awwwww! Jayne!!
Yanno – that’s not a bad idea at all.
Hmmmmm
*wheels are spinning*
Loved the video.
We all carry our shit around with us. Though, it’s not usually in a bag.
You should be the poster child for…everything! I am such a fucking baby. I haven’t had a MRI in two years because I’m claustraphobic. Damn! I can learn and thing or two from you. Thanks for being strong for the rest of us weaklings.
I drank that same shit for my colonoscopy. You put in what you get out.
AhHAhHAhAHahh!
Lauren!
That cracked me up!
I’m completely serious. I’ve never done a book proposal, but with all the people you know, I bet you know someone who could help you and give you some direction about agents. What the hell, woman! Maybe that’s why God made you a writer. 🙂
Meleah, what can I say? You made me laugh and cry at the same time! I agree that there is no such thing as TMI…you help to keep other people strong just by letting us know what you deal with on a daily basis! And your t-shirt says it all! You definitely are “One Tough Chick”!And as your Aunt, know that I love you ( as you always say) sofa king much!<3
And I love YOU, sofa king much, Aunt Lynda! You make me smile every single day. XOXOX
Well my Libra friend, as you know, nothing is ever too TMI for me…EVER.
FAN-FUCKIN-TASTIC post!
You know girl, I’ve shared a lot of myself online, whether it was funny stuff or very personal stuff that I’ve gone through in my life that was hard and challenging, and I truly don’t regret ever sharing it. Not in the slightest bit. And here’s why. There are many people in this world who go through things in their lives and feel embarrassed, ashamed, or just simply can’t talk about it because they feel like they’re the only ones who have gone through these things. But by doing what YOU do; sharing yourself openly with the Internet, you allow others to not feel alone.
“The only thing Meleah has any control over, is her mental state and her emotional reactions to these situations.”
Exactly! And you’re a prime example of how we DO have control over how we react to these situations. And the thing about you is that you always find the HUMOR!
As Jayne shared, I think writing about this might be an awesome idea because you would be helping even MORE people!
This is how I see this. You’re obviously going through all this for a reason. And perhaps the “bigger picture” of the reason is that you are to help others through your own journey. So keep on sharing!
Anyway, girl, I’ve rambled enough in this comment. Just know that I love you. And that I am so happy that our paths have crossed.
(((((((((((((((( You )))))))))))))))))))
X ya bunches!
P.S loved the video. especially the photo of you in the hospital bed holding a cigarette. HILARIOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
“There are many people in this world who go through things in their lives
and feel embarrassed, ashamed, or just simply can’t talk about it
because they feel like they’re the only ones who have gone through these
things. But by doing what YOU do; sharing yourself openly with the
Internet, you allow others to not feel alone.”
EXACTLY, Ron.
Exactly.
And finding the humor, is my way of coping and dealing, and NOT letting it ruin my life.
I definitely think Jayne is onto something here. She’s a super smart lady and I value her opinion very much.
I also believe everything happens for a reason, even though sometimes you can’t figure out the reason, for a long time.
You never ramble in the comments. In fact, I truly appreciate you taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment.
XOXO
I am really beginning to LOVE this idea, Jayne!
“And finding the humor, is my way of coping and dealing, and NOT letting it ruin my life.”
Aaaaaaaaaaaamen!
OXOXO
Meleah, that shirt you’re wearing in the hospital says it all. You really are one tough chick. And don’t stop being one tough chick because I admire the hell out of you.
You are the strongest person I know. It’s amazing to me how you can go through so much pain and sickness and not come across as whiny. Instead, you’re incredibly funny and make me laugh. I totally admire your honesty and openness and how unafraid you are to post pics of yourself, even when you’re not at your *ahem* best. You’re truly an inspiration Meleah.
I think we’ve shown you we’re not going to run away screaming when you talk about all your issues. In fact, the opposite seems to be happening. The more you share, the more we admire you and love you and laugh WITH you.
Thank you so much, Shadow.
That comment means the world to me.
And thank you even more for laughing WITH ME.
I admire the hell out of you too, John. And you’re ability to stay in good spirits, even when life throws so much pain your way. I know you’re struggling with horrendous health issues too. And us sick people gotta stick together.
Oh, my friend….I have never felt that you were over-sharing, I always thought that your sharing is important and brave. Health issues are complex physically and emotionally. You are going through things that the rest of us are learning about because of your willingness to share. I wish that none of this was happening to you but I am confident your information will be helpful to others that have medical issues. Even if their issues are different in nature, you are emotionally holding their hand with your positive spirit.
You could never be accused of TMI but you could be praised for being so approachable, warm and inspiring.
You continue to be the BESTEST EVER BLOG FRIEND!!!!
First of all, I am cracking up because I think we just left comments on each others blogs AT THE SAME EXACT TIME!
Secondly, thank you for your incredibly kind words. Hearing those words truly makes my heart smile.
And you’re one of the BESTEST BLOGGING FRIENDS TOO!!!!
I bow before the Queen of TMI! You are one tough chick Meleah and thanks for all the guilty laughs you provide! Vagina Sweat would be a great punk rock band name! Thanks for sharing your information and most importantly your humor!
Sometimes the only thing left is the irony and/or humor of a situation and it’s a very rare person who can even find a glimmer of that in the middle of a crisis. Good luck and keep posting.
We definitely love you :). It’s so amazing that you can go through so much yet still be so upbeat about everything. You are an inspiration.
Meleah, you rock! I love that you feel comfortable in laughing at your problems – that is a fantastic way to get through the tough times. I think that I have spent too much time in medical situations to be traumatized by your graphic descriptions. I do wish that you weren’t experiencing any of it!
You are the strongest — and funniest — woman I know. I wish there was a way to relieve you of this suffering. It’s too much for one person to bear. As I read your descriptions I felt my body flinch in sympathetic pain. But you soldier on with humor as your sidekick. What a gift you have that you fill the world with laughter and beauty. Thank you. (I will continue to hope and pray you find relief.)
Awwwwwwwwwwww!!! Thank you, MomZombie.
Amy,
If I couldn’t find a way to laugh over this, I would probably veer into oncoming traffic!
“I think that I have spent too much time in medical situations to be traumatized by your graphic descriptions”
Oh my … Are you okay?
You have my email if you want/need to talk.
Thank you so much, Anne.
xoxo
You got that right, Kelly!
LOLZ! Vaginal Sweat as a band name! AhAHAHhah
I am speechless….well, almost. You have so much to contend with, yet you still keep laughing and entertaining others. Having plenty of people who love you around helps a lot, but they can’t take it away from you, though I imagine they wish they could. You are amazing the way you handle these awful things. I wish it would all stop for you.
It’s funny but for most of my adult life I have had strange swellings appear on my face. Just like your lip, one side of my jaw puffs out. Once my eye did and I looked like something from a horror movie. The doctor had no idea what it was, so it’s just something I live with that comes and goes.
Thanks! I’m super good.
Babs, that really sounds like an allergic reaction to something. Luckily it goes away on its own and its not life threatening for you. But still, can you ask your doctor to give you whats called a scratch test? It’s a really simple and mostly painless test that may give you some answers!
XOXOXO
I just got your email! You had me worried for a second! XOXOX
I hope you are keeping track of all these blog posts and everything about living with your ailments. There’s a kick-ass book there that you need to write about it. LOTS of people going through the same thing would benefit from hearing about your struggles with your humor woven into it. You gotta get it written!!
I have saved my blog posts. And you’re the 3rd person to tell me I should write a book about this stuff.
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Okay, Little Sister, one thing. You look better sick than most people do when they are well. I hate the shit you go through, but it doesn’t touch the essence of who you are. You are definitely a force to be reckoned with, Meleah. No wonder we love you sofa king much. xoxoxo
Ok, as someone who still does have a hard time sharing publicly, I really admire you even though I sometimes (ok, often) get really squeamish reading about your experiences. Tough chick indeed 🙂
I’m sorry for making you squeamish! If it makes you feel any better, I get squeamish writing about these things too. 🙂