For the
past 10 years of living with lymphedema, I chose not to allow it to define me.
My lymphedema does not hold me back from achieving and accomplishing my goals.
I am fortunate to not have my lymphedema worse than what I do. I truly thank
God for my health and strength every day. For I have grown to be more accepting
of my lymphedema.
I embrace
what many would label my imperfection with grace. For years, I once cringed
going shopping for dresses, shorts, and even shoes out in public. There was
something about just having to show my possibly swollen feet and ankles that
just did me in. Honey, I would pressure myself to try on everything in my
dressing room stall and not come out until I was fully dress.
Whenever
I tried on shoes I made sure I only placed on one shoe on my right foot that
doesn't predominantly have most of the swelling as my left foot. To me, if the
left shoe fit then often the right one did too. There were many times I sized
my shoes improperly just from feeling embarrassed about simply having to try
them on! I either needed to size up and go wider or do both by the time I got
home and had enough courage to try both shoes on.
I have
hidden my lymphedema for years. I avoided taking full body pictures that
displayed my lymphedema. It took me years to have the inner strength and
confidence to step out on faith and share my journey with you. In my everyday
life, I have incorporated more shorts and dresses in my closet and even more
shoes!
I'm
stepping out this year with confidence. My lymphedema won't hold me back any
longer from feeling beautiful and living my best life. This summer 2018 will
bring out the very best in me and my imperfections.
shefoundstrength.com
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