Bravely riding the roller coaster of life with hypoparathyroidism
I'm grateful to my children for supporting me through the ups and downs
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“It’s my life, and it’s now or never/ I ain’t gonna live forever/ I just wanna live while I’m alive.” — Bon Jovi, “It’s My Life”
I was 8 years old when I rode my first upside-down roller coaster, the Superdooperlooper, at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania.
As the ride began, I felt the wind rushing past my face and my heart pounding in my chest like a drum. The clack-clack-clack of the coaster climbing the tracks was exhilarating, and then came the drop. I felt a sensation of weightlessness and pure joy as we looped upside down.
I was fearless and loved every second. That moment in time symbolized conquering fears and embracing adventure despite uncertainties, a lesson I carry with me always. This was the start of my brave journey.
Years later, when I was diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism, it felt like a terrifying, unexpected drop on a roller coaster. I love thrill rides, so I never thought I’d compare my illness to one, but that’s the best way to describe it.
The thing about roller coasters is that there’s a seat belt, lap bar, or other safety device in place to secure you. Unfortunately, life with hypoparathyroidism doesn’t offer the same assurance. One of the most unsettling aspects is the unpredictable calcium levels, which leave me vulnerable to sudden declines without warning or a chance to prepare. These moments often bring feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and fear.
Finding resilience through courage
Despite life’s uncertainties, I continue to embrace adventure. Facing fears with strength and courage has helped me to inspire my children and show them how to build resilience.
When my kids, Drew and Harrison, were young, we vacationed at Hersheypark. The moment I saw the Sooperdooperlooper still standing, I exclaimed with the excitement of my 8-year-old self. I grabbed my kids, and we got in line. I told them the story of how I rode the coaster for the first time — a memory I’ll never forget, even with my brain fog.
As we boarded the coaster, I told a scared Harrison, “It’s the kiddy coaster.” As the safety belts were secured, the announcer said, “Welcome to the Sooperdooperlooper.” Harrison looked frightened, as he should have. I had lied to him.
I assured him, “Mommy always has you, don’t worry.” I realized I’d made a mistake; honesty and trust are what create safety during uncertain times.
Luckily, Harrison loved the coaster, and we rode it again.
Adrenaline helps me forget I have hypopara
My children and I love spending time at theme parks. During one trip to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, Harrison and I rode The Incredible Hulk Coaster six times in a row. I admit, I was dizzy at first, but his fearlessness inspired me.
Bari Vapnek rides the roller coaster of life with her children, Harrison and Drew, by her side. (Photo by Bari Vapnek)
I didn’t let my hypoparathyroidism get in the way. The adrenaline rush was a dopamine boost that made me briefly forget I live with this rare disease.
My kids then went to a new roller coaster called the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, which actually looked frightening. I watched them ride it in awe, though I was concerned about their safety. Afterward, they exclaimed that it was the “best ride ever” and forced me to join them for a second ride.
It was nighttime, and I was having a panic attack. When we got to our car, I had to choose a song to listen to during the ride. I couldn’t think straight, so I told the attendant to just pick one for me.
The coaster went straight up high, then dropped and looped. As it ascended, the music began to play. The song chosen for me was “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi. Hearing those lyrics in that moment empowered me. It became my favorite ride, and the song became a theme for how to live my life. It was an inspiring moment I will never forget.
I am grateful for my kids’ support, on that day and always. They encourage me to be fearless and persevere through obstacles and scary moments.
My children and I have experienced many roller coasters, both literal and figurative, together, and we support each other through the ups and downs. Our shared adventures deepen our connection and reveal our strength.
There is no one else I’d want by my side on the roller coaster of life with hypopara. It’s now or never!
Note: Hypoparathyroidism News is a strictly 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 Hypoparathyroidism News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hypoparathyroidism.
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