Journal Volume 1 - January 2006
Article 54
| Support Groups:
Missouri Hello, my name is Kelly Hatfield. I am very excited about starting a TM Support Group in Missouri. I am 30 years old, I’m married and I have 7 children, three of my own and four step-children. I was diagnosed with SLE - Lupus six years ago. I got Lupus just five months after I had my daughter; it was the worst day of my life. The doctors and my family have helped me make it through this experience. I had a flare up a few months ago. I thought it was another lupus flare, but it was not. I was admitted to the hospital and the doctors ran a lot of tests. I was given a Transverse Myelitis diagnosis. It was like a flash back and I thought, oh, no, why me? The doctors put me on very strong steroids. I was released from the hospital in a week, and then was sent to a rehabilitation hospital for another week. I came home in a wheel chair. My family has provided me with so much support. They are wonderful. I am now paralyzed from my waist down. It will take time to know if I am going to ever walk again. Even if I have to be in a chair, I am independent and my life is so good. I take life day to day. I always stay positive, and that is the only way to be. I enjoy going out to dance. I love traveling with my husband when I am feeling up to it. I spend a great deal of time with my kids; we go to the park or to the movies, or we just play games at home. We have a lot of fun. It is sometimes difficult to get out, but I make the best of it. I am going to get a support group started in Missouri. I need for people to get in touch with me; and I would love for people to get involved. I hope to hear from you soon. Please stay positive and take care. Kelly Hatfield |