Flying high as I embrace a positive change in my life with hypopara
A trip to New York was just the catalyst this brave butterfly needed
“Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.” — Unknown
The transformation of an awkward, unattractive caterpillar into a graceful, winged butterfly is a remarkable spectacle and a powerful symbol of change, renewal, and growth. This journey of self-discovery teaches the caterpillar to embrace its metamorphosis and let go of its burdens so that it may experience the joy and liberation of becoming a butterfly. The change is not just inevitable, but beautiful.
Last week, I underwent my own metamorphosis while visiting New York City, where I met with my doctor to discuss the future of my hypoparathyroidism treatment.
For the past year, I’d been carrying a heavy burden. As part of a clinical trial, I had been taking 60 mg of what is now called Yorvipath (palopegteriparatide). However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval of the drug in August 2024 was for a 30 mg dose. Having to cut my dosage in half affected me mentally, physically, and emotionally. I got stuck in a rut I couldn’t escape.
The change of scenery last week prompted a spiritual awakening. The fall-like weather provided a nice break from the humidity in Florida, where I live, and stepping away from my daily routine allowed me to take a good look at my life. I evaluated what was working — and what wasn’t — and considered what was truly important to me.
As I sat in Central Park, enjoying a day that seemed too perfect to be real, I looked up and saw a butterfly that was a striking shade of blue — my lucky color. It felt like a sign from above, urging me to get up and start flying again. In that moment, I had a revelation and felt a transformation stirring within me.
I had been so focused on my struggles — the change in my Yorvipath dose, weekly labs and doctor appointments, insurance battles, medication delivery delays, and just feeling like death — that I wasn’t thinking about what comes next. It was time to get up, get moving, and go after what I needed to help me on my journey.
I always tell my children, “Who makes it happen? You do.” And because they’ve chased what they wanted instead of waiting for it to happen, they are both thriving. I realized I needed to heed my own advice. It’s a lesson we can all learn from: The power to enact change lies within us.
I took a hard look at myself and saw a shell of who I used to be. Over the past year, I’ve stopped caring about my appearance and doing things I enjoy. I was depressed from the change in my Yorvipath dose, which consumed me. It was like I’d turned back into an ugly caterpillar.
It took a random bench in Central Park and a type of butterfly I’d never seen before to get me to start caring about myself again. While in New York, I laughed, looked good, finally slept, and walked 20,000 steps. I transformed back into a brave butterfly. I wish I could bottle that remarkable feeling.
Spreading my wings of hope
Bari Vapnek shares a Facebook post with her hypoparathyroidism community after her metamorphosis this month in New York City. (Screenshot by Bari Vapnek)
In addition to the New York trip, I’ve also traveled to Louisiana and Georgia recently to spend time with my son and daughter. Each place took me out of my comfort zone, which made me feel healthier and more alive. I am fortunate to be fully mobile, independent, and free to travel as I wish. In doing so, I’m able to spread my wings of hope and connect with others.
This realization sparked the idea to start traveling to meet other hypoparathyroidism patients. Sitting at home and dwelling on my problems is not a solution. Helping others will allow me to avoid stagnation; plus, we are better together! I’m excited to visit new places, meet new people, and surround myself with those who may need a hug or support. Community plays a vital role in the healing journey, allowing us to feel less alone in our struggles and find the strength to keep moving forward.
I am grateful for this metamorphosis I’ve experienced. In order to truly feel well, I need to love myself and not let hypopara limit me. Every day is a gift, not a given, and I need to fly high and help whoever I can.
This journey of self-awareness, hope, and transformation has been uniquely mine, but we all have the power to take charge of our lives and become the best version of ourselves. By embracing change, we can discover the beauty within.
Note: Hypoparathyroidism News 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 Hypoparathyroidism News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hypoparathyroidism.
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