Who am I?
Though my chronic illnesses are a big part of who I am,
they are not the only thing that defines me.
I'm Kaitlyn. I'm a daughter, sister, aunt, grand-daughter, cousin, niece, and friend. I own a rescued, 11 year old, Golden Retriever who is my biggest protector when I'm sick. I have an immense passion for the ocean and beach. I have a guilty pleasure of watching Grey's Anatomy or Law & Order: SVU for hours and hours on end. Taylor Swift is the only artist that I have every song and lyric memorized too. I could survive with just two essential items: a book and a blanket. One favorite hobby of mine is to volunteer at places including: Flying Horse Farms (camp for kids with serious illnesses), The American Lung Association, Children's Hospital, and a Patient/Teen Advocacy Program. I have, and will always continue to have, the heart and soul of a little kid. If I see a playground, I'm tempted to slide down the slide. If I see kitchen sets, I will want to host a tea party. Occasionally, we shop at local toy stores, buy games, and host impromptu Nerf gun wars.
I believe that life is short and you should always do what fills your heart with joy most. I believe in miracles and never giving up hope. I believe that life is the epitome of both hope and despair, wrapped into one.
Having a lengthy list of chronic illnesses does make me different than your average. I spend majority of my time in the hospital and I see my doctors more than I see members of my family. Through my illnesses I have gained wisdom, insight, and a perspective on life that I never would have received, had I never gotten sick.