As is my customary Friday morning tradition, I found myself back at my favorite bagel place for my breakfast and an almond milk hot chocolate. As I waited for my wares, I noticed a woman waiting in line eyeballing the front of my shirt.

If you haven’t seen the front, it’s a wonderful design, created by a friend, representing my insides after my Endo surgeries. Ha.

Once she paid for her bagels, she walked right up to me with a big smile.

“I was standing in line reading the back of your shirt,” she said. “So then I had to try to read the front of your shirt to see what it is.”

“Oh?” I prodded.

“You’ve had quite the ride,” she said, with a li’l bit of sadness in her voice.

“It sure has been.”

“I’m familiar with the disease…” she said, leaving it open-ended.

Familiar? Did she have it? Does her daughter??? She looked to be in her sixties. “Are you?” I prodded further. “Do you have it?”

“No,” she smiled, “but I’m an OB nurse.”

We talked for a little while longer while we both waited for our bagel sandwiches and beverages. She seemed surprised at how extensive it could be, how entwined it can get, and how often my surgeries were warranted. I let her know that my pain levels were in a good place since my last one. She placed a warm hand on my shoulder, “I hope it stays that way.” And we said our goodbyes.

Such a wonderful way to start a Friday. And now? On to today’s Feel Good Friday’s quote:

“Finding healthy coping mechanisms are as essential as breathing fresh air

Find what works for you.

Do it with zest and fervor 

Unapologetically” 

― Renee A. Lee

For me, striking up conversations, spreading awareness about Endo, and making connections is a huge part of my coping mechanism and self-administered therapy. That being said, I know it’s not for everyone. What helps you cope? Let me know in the comments below!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Love, Lisa

Blogs I Updated This Week:

Endo & Liver Function: added a 2019 study of a 42-year-old woman who complained of right quadrant pain, vomiting, and nausea. Turns out she had the super-rare Endo on the liver!