When Michael is told, “We don’t know what to do with you because most people don’t live that long,” he realizes he’s lucky to be alive and he’s become an anomalous patient in the healthcare system. After 11 surgeries, losing 42 lbs. in eight days, multiple medical diagnoses (e.g., Crohn’s disease) and 31 years with a partial digestive system, his motto is “My body still works…with what it has”. Michael details the various procedures and treatments he endured including a memorable “shitty” night in the hospital and how he has become more comfortable talking about his body and its functions. His primary learnings: ask questions—even the embarrassing ones, educate and advocate for yourself, and embrace what’s happening to your body. His advice to others? “You have to find something positive in the midst of something that isn’t positive” and “Surround yourself with people who will love you and accept you for who you are.”
Michael’s blog: https://thewritingprofessor55.com/
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