Day 1 - My Seizure

Shunt Operation #2.

28 y/o at tai-chi collapsed. It was a SAH. Had surgery for the aneurysm...it was clipped. 2 weeks later in ICU, had another vasospasm stroke. Rt. side paralized, and aphasia. Has a trachotomy and also had a vp shunt. I still have the shunt.

Aneurysm rupture May 14, 2001, coiled May 15, 2001 One year later same aneurysm clipped May 20, 2002

On this day, the old Irene was lost forever. In her place emerged a lost, bewildered and handicapped soul who don't know all the reasons why butstill has found an ember somewhere inside. My determination to recapture all what I lost on this day, is my purpose for going on ahead each morning. It is the flame that burns bright in my soul. There has to be a purpose for all this. And that is  clearly seen: I have changed into a more caring, compassionate, understanding, loving person, as if a cocoon has burst forth and the newly born butterfly has at last emerged. With open delicate wings I fly now, eager to feel, touch, experience, share, like I have never done before this date. The Lord has changed a old, dull girl into a woman who knows how to make each day count. For those who are survivors, I say sit still, allow the magic of the new self to emerge. Embrace your hidden qualities.Say each day, "I am important, I am a child of the Most High".   God bless.