I'm sorry I have not updated in months. I want to thank everyone who has helped me through the tough times I've been through. It is hard for me to ask and accept help and I want everyone who has helped to know I do appreciate it. I am so grateful for the people I have in my life. Thank you also for the prayers and love sent my way. Financial troubles regarding medical bills are decreasing, which I am so thankful to many for.
In the last few months my life has gotten much busier. I accepted a job with the St. George News and since then I have been busier than ever. My ability to report news has expanded and I am continually learning how to become a better journalist. My dream is to become one of the best. That will definitely take a lot of time and experience, but I look forward to it. Anyone interested in reading what I write can visit www.stgeorgeutah.com or "like" St. George News on Facebook. We are an online news outlet.
Also since the last time I updated I have been working out more than I ever have in a long time. I have gotten in the best shape of my life since high school. I have gotten to my high school junior weight. It's nice to get to a healthy weight instead of a weight that makes me look sick as I did when I lost weight in the hospital back in November. I have been going to a personal training group and doing grueling workouts that get my heart rate up and put me in the best shape. I am running often and preparing to run in an obstacle course race called a "Spartan Sprint."
I am told my kidney function is lower than 100 percent, but I don't really notice much of a difference other than being more tired and exhausted than I used to get. I will push my limit as much as I can before I can't handle anymore. I don't see the reason to let anything get me down even if my health is changing. I visited my nephrologist in September and my kidney function has improved a little bit, which I am grateful for. I know it is because I have been living a healthy lifestyle. I am so blessed for that as I am blessed for many things in my life.
The pill, which I have been prescribed to take daily and is supposed to shrink the tumors within my body over time costs $10,000 per month. I was told that rarely do patients who have been prescribed the medication have to pay much for it. The maximum amount is $25 co-pay for the medication. I had to pay $12.50 one time and since have had to pay $0 because the insurance company has covered the entire bill. They said in 6-12 months the pill should show significant changes. I will proceed to have MRI's routinely every 6 months and be monitored regarding side effects of the medication every few months. So grateful for this. It has its side effects, but for the most part I am still operating normally as before.
The news of finding out I may never bear children was hard at first, but I know if God feels it is right he will make it possible. Since the pill causes birth defects as a side effect, I am advised to not get pregnant while on the pill. Of course I have yet to find the future man of my children for that to be remotely close to happening :) .. I am grateful to know that the next few years if my kidneys function better and the medication helps then there will still be a chance for me to experience that. I know I will be a mother either way though.
Other changes are my move to St. George, which will be complete by next week. My job takes me to St. George three days per week. I am finding I do majority of my work there. I was covering events and news in Cedar City area, but two reporters will remain in Cedar City as I make the move to St. George. I am excited for this new location and adventure.
I am blessed for the people in my life, my Savior, my Heavenly Father and my family.
Love you all,
Holly
