I've been home for almost a full week from Phoenix Children's Hospital. I have to admit, one of the longest and most challenging stays I have ever had to experience. I entered the hospital on June 5 and was released July 16. A total of 41 long days! After many series of tests and trials of medicine, and a procedure called a bronchoscopy, I learned I was ill with 2 bacterial infections, pneumonia, and a fungi called Aspergillus. I went through complications with my port (not surprising one bit), a couple IV's, at least one week of fever spikes of 102, migraines, chest pains, needing oxygen through out the day and night, lowered lung functions, crazy emotions, sleep deprivation, and weight loss (120 lbs down to 105 lbs). My lung functions dropped down to 33% (a healthy person is normally at 100%). Because of that, we started talking about a double lung transplant. I am going to get evaluated at a transplant center, just in case I need a transplant. I'd rather be safe than sorry. I was upset at first about this but I have realized IF I need a transplant, that does not weaken me. It's a challenge I can over come, if I need to. The cause of my weight was directly related to a medicine I was that made me so sick to my stomach that I could hardly stand the smell of dry Cheerios. It will take me over a year to gain back the weight I lost. I am overly excited to be home and ready to get back on the right track again.
I am doubtful I can compete in the pageant coming up at the end of August. I was hoping to compete for the title of Miss Pinal County 2014. I tried to play my saxophone the other day and had a very hard time. Talent counts for the most points during competition and I don't want to struggle for my talent or risk a coughing fit during my performance. I'm thinking I might hold off to compete again until January. That should be enough time for me to get my health up enough to perform properly!
On another note, I leave for Chicago tomorrow! I will be accompanied by my father. We will drive into Phoenix tomorrow and fly out Thursday morning. We are going to visit family in Chicago, Springfield, and Petersburg. Then I think we might go up and visit some family friends. On Monday we will return to the airport to be picked up by the my chauffeur. Tuesday morning I will be in a film talking about maintaining a strong weight while eating a healthy diet (kind of ironic I will be talking about this after losing 15 lbs lol). Tuesday afternoon I will be in a second video talking about why keeping a positive attitude is key for not only good health but in life generally. Tuesday night we will hit the city! We have tickets to see a comedy musical called "Let Them Eat Chaos". Wednesday morning we fly home! I'm so ready for this adventure!!! I am so excited to have my dad there with me. I couldn't ask for better :) My next post will include details and pictures from my trip!
XO- A
