New York Mermaid
06-18-2012, 05:19 PM
Hi Lanai,
Your goal of being a a mermaid teacher/educator/mascot is a tremendous one and I admire you for being able to do this.
I know it's not easy working yourself back to normal after suffering from illness/issue like you have. It's usually a miracle getting yourself back to 50%, let alone to full speed. I'm writing to you because I, too, have a severe lung issue. Mine cropped up nearly four years ago. Luckily I didn't need surgery to repair or remove any parts of them but the condition is a permanent one. I'm now on oxygen for roughly half the day and I now suffer from asthma-type issues. The name of my affliction is Ground Glass Opacification.
As I'm sure you know there is no more frightening feeling than your own body acting against you.
Yet despite it all you've managed to not only overcome and adapt to your new situation but go into something that, to some, would seem to be counter intuitive. A woman with lung condition decides to make a career in the water. That's one of the most awesome things someone could do in my opinion. In the years since I've had my problems I've met others our age with similar issues and they often have a very solemn and defeatist attitude. To read about you is honestly refreshing.
The thought's of being in the water, under water with held breath, is something that would have frightened me before. Last summer was the first time in over six years that I had been able to do that. Somehow I stayed under nearly two minutes.
I feel you've set up an important cause and I'm always looking to help out those in similar boats as mine. Best of luck with everything you do. you are an inspiration ..
Shawn
This made my heart skip, i cant believe i inspired someone. Its the best feeling in the world.. I emailed him back and thanked him for sharing his similar experience and asked him to keep in contact as well. :)
Your goal of being a a mermaid teacher/educator/mascot is a tremendous one and I admire you for being able to do this.
I know it's not easy working yourself back to normal after suffering from illness/issue like you have. It's usually a miracle getting yourself back to 50%, let alone to full speed. I'm writing to you because I, too, have a severe lung issue. Mine cropped up nearly four years ago. Luckily I didn't need surgery to repair or remove any parts of them but the condition is a permanent one. I'm now on oxygen for roughly half the day and I now suffer from asthma-type issues. The name of my affliction is Ground Glass Opacification.
As I'm sure you know there is no more frightening feeling than your own body acting against you.
Yet despite it all you've managed to not only overcome and adapt to your new situation but go into something that, to some, would seem to be counter intuitive. A woman with lung condition decides to make a career in the water. That's one of the most awesome things someone could do in my opinion. In the years since I've had my problems I've met others our age with similar issues and they often have a very solemn and defeatist attitude. To read about you is honestly refreshing.
The thought's of being in the water, under water with held breath, is something that would have frightened me before. Last summer was the first time in over six years that I had been able to do that. Somehow I stayed under nearly two minutes.
I feel you've set up an important cause and I'm always looking to help out those in similar boats as mine. Best of luck with everything you do. you are an inspiration ..
Shawn
This made my heart skip, i cant believe i inspired someone. Its the best feeling in the world.. I emailed him back and thanked him for sharing his similar experience and asked him to keep in contact as well. :)