That Girl

I had the chance to meet with a 13-year-old girl yesterday who had recently been diagnosed with a degenerative health condition -- one that will significantly impact her life. I sat there thinking how could I help her get to the other side where she knew her and life could and would be amazing inspite of this challenge. Infact, this challenge could become a gift to her. Today was NOT the day she wanted to hear that. That will come when she is ready ... in her time. It did for me. I was 13 when symptoms of RP became evident although it took us several years more for a conclusive diagnosis. Today I sat there while she cried and felt her pain of feeling different. We found ways to express her feelings through journaling, drawing, and painting. Then, I told her about one day when I was angry about being diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa. I said I cried hard for a long time. I grieved and felt sad and that was okay. Then I filled lots of pages of writing of what felt frustrating at that time. I was really mad. Then I tore up those pages in really fierce tearing motions. Then I felt better. I could laugh again. In case you think I am happy and perky all the time, that girl pops up at times. Of course, she still gets frustrated and overwhelmed at times. Then she gets up, feels better and laughs again and again.