Today I am thankful for all the things that I normally hate. I am thankful for my feeding tube, my central line (port), my wheelchair, and even my disease. I am thankful for modern medicine just because I simply wouldn’t be alive without it. Don’t get me wrong, I hate the fact that I have to rely on a feeding tube and wheelchair. As much as I hate all the medical equipment I require just to function, I am thankful to have it. Life without wheelchairs & feeding tubes could be impossible to those who rely on them. My quality of life has drastically improved since getting my own custom wheelchair & undergoing the surgeries to have the feeding tube and port placed. I had no idea that becoming a Tubie would soon lead me to meeting other teens and young adults who would become some of my best friends. It is crazy to realize that had I been born free of illnesses I never would have met my best friends. I can’t imagine doing life without them! The friends that I have made make it worth having to fight this monster disease- With you guys by my side, I know that we will never have to fight alone. I am thankful for my disease because it has led me to incredible life experiences that never would have happened to me if I had been born healthy. My disease has helped me find my voice and because of that, I have been able to help other people who are living with similar illnesses. I have huge plans for my future. There will always be difficult times but at the end of the day, I know that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.

Above all, I am thankful for the doctors, nurses, and CNA’s who will continue to work saving lives every day over this holiday season. Their jobs do not get to skip a day just because it’s a holiday- there are always people who need help. Don’t forget to thank each and every person in the medical field who will be working over the holidays this season!

Thank you to everyone who has supported me from day one. I love you all! Happy Holidays!