Reflections on the first anniversary of ‘Brave Butterfly’

Soft morning light spills through my windows as I power on my laptop. A gentle glow envelops the quiet room. I think about where I was a year ago, when hope felt uncertain and struggle was heavy.

April marks the first anniversary of my column, “Brave Butterfly,” so I decided to take a moment to reflect on the lessons I’ve learned and hopefully inspire resilience in others.

As I began to write my very first column, memories tumbled in with each word, reminding me why this moment matters. It’s proof that strength finds a way to persevere when life is hard.

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I’ve written about the adversity I’ve faced on my hypoparathyroidism journey, opening myself up, which has shaped my personal growth. I grasped the importance of embracing my vulnerability by sharing the fragile, raw parts of my life. I discovered that honesty is a bridge that connects us through true-life storytelling.

Hypoparathyroidism News has provided me with a safe space to share my story, showing that vulnerability can foster genuine connection and support among those who understand this journey.

Readers will know that I usually begin each column with a quote, carefully chosen to set the tone. For this anniversary column, though, I found myself on a quest for the perfect words. I paged through old notebooks, scrolled through countless quotes I’d saved, and resisted the pull of overused clichés. But nothing truly captured the magnitude of this milestone. Rather than opening this column with someone else’s wisdom, I realized it was my moment to look inward and let my words shine.

Instead of focusing on calcium crashes, health instability, or medications, I want to acknowledge the past year’s victories that highlight my resilience and growth, and the power of celebrating progress.

Sharing meaningful words I composed is a wonderful way to celebrate. To borrow a slogan from my favorite bagel shop, I’m “not famous but known,” which accurately describes how I feel being a columnist!

Progress through honest storytelling

In the past year, I’ve faced adversity, become vulnerable, and realized that staying silent doesn’t help anyone. I’ve learned that each day offers an opportunity to be great. The following is a sample of columns I’ve written:

I celebrated hope and optimism about the future of hypoparathyroidism treatment, realizing that it’s never too late to reach our true potential.

I learned that grief isn’t something we “just get over”; it’s something we learn to live with.

(Photo by Bari Vapnek)

I experienced great days that resonate far longer than the challenges of a bad day.

I learned that I can’t predict the storms that will come my way, but I can be prepared to navigate them.

I came to terms with the fact that we are all different and don’t always respond the same way to treatments.

I realized that focusing on the miracles rather than the adversity I’ve witnessed is crucial to my journey.

I found the courage to persevere, remembering that adversity doesn’t end the race, but rather teaches us how to begin anew.

I drew parallels to athletes who get back up after falling, proving that the courage to soar lies within.

I’ve had so many blessings come my way, even while navigating the hardships of life with hypoparathyroidism.

I’ve embraced change, knowing that everything happens the way it should.

I’ve made great memories that are etched in my heart forever.

I’ve learned that it’s OK to ask for help.

My life and story are valuable. I am capable. And I am so happy I didn’t give up.

My ‘why’

I also realized that my kids are my winning lottery ticket and my championship trophy. I’m deeply grateful for their support. Their encouragement helps me face obstacles fearlessly, reminding me that I’m not alone. I’m so thankful that God chose me to be their mom.

Everything I do, every word I write, every obstacle I overcome, and every person I help isn’t for my benefit. It’s for my children. I may have given birth to them, but they gave me life, purpose, and a reason to keep going even when things feel hopeless.

My wish is for my kids to be proud of me. I want them to laugh at our stories and feel our memories in their hearts, always preserving them. I hope they never forget these life lessons, including this one: Who makes it happen? You do!

After 53 years, I finally gave it my all despite moments of chaos. This brave butterfly looks forward to courageously soaring into my second year with gratitude. I’m proud of how far I’ve come. I have so much to celebrate!

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.