Embracing Resilience: My Journey Through Adversity

Hey ladies,

It feels like it's been ages since we last connected, doesn't it? The years have been a whirlwind of highs and lows, and I've been on quite the journey since my last post back in 2020, where I shared that delicious shrimp pastelillo recipe. Did any of you get the chance to give it a try? It was definitely a hit in my kitchen!

Let's fast forward to 2024 and catch up on what's been happening in my life. Brace yourselves, it's been a rollercoaster ride.

In 2021, I experienced a life-altering event – I was hit by a van while crossing the street, which led to knee surgery. But that wasn't the only challenge I faced that year. The man I thought I would spend my life with walked out on me. It was a devastating blow, leaving me grappling with heartbreak and uncertainty. Despite the pain and challenges, I found the courage to seek therapy and confront the realization that the relationship I was in wasn't healthy for me. As difficult as it was, I'm grateful for the clarity it brought and the strength it helped me discover. I realized that I deserve more and am capable of finding true happiness.

Then came 2022, a year filled with moments of joy and unexpected twists. From participating in the exhilarating bubble run with my aunt and friend to celebrating a friend's birthday in Mexico, life seemed to be looking up. However, it ended with a sudden and drastic turn when I underwent a laparoscopic hysterectomy that left me grappling with complications. A simple surgery turned into a nightmare when my ureter was nicked, leading to further complications and surgeries, including the insertion of a nephrostomy tube. It was a challenging period, physically and emotionally, and it forced me to confront the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit.

But 2023 brought some unexpected blessings amidst the struggles. I reconnected with much-missed friends who brought light and laughter back into my life. Their unwavering support and companionship reminded me of the importance of friendship and community during difficult times, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

As if that wasn't enough, 2023 also brought its own set of struggles. I spent months recovering from surgeries, unable to work and facing uncertainty about my health. Meanwhile, my beloved aunt was battling her own health issues, undergoing chemotherapy in her own fight against illness. Sadly, her courageous battle came to an end in December 2023, leaving our family reeling from the loss.

Despite the pain and hardships of the past few years, I refuse to let adversity define me. I'm choosing to rise strong, to find meaning in the midst of chaos, and to embrace life with courage and resilience. And part of that journey involves reviving this blog, reconnecting with all of you, and sharing the highs and lows of my journey.

So here I am, ready to embark on this new chapter with all of you by my side. Thank you for being here, for your support, and for being a part of my journey. Let's navigate through life's challenges together and celebrate the moments of joy that make it all worthwhile.

Until next time,

Tiqua