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IN THE MAIL: Another Teen Story
Dear Mary Lou Ballweg,
I have wanted to write to you and tell you what life has been like since I first had my
period. Often I wanted to die because the pain was getting worse every day and no amount of
pain medication was working.
My faith in God was my strength to endure that there was a reason I suffered. I had a
doctor who believed the pain was something that I would outgrow.
I was afraid to attend college because of having problems, but I went believing that
soon something would be done to help. It was then while I was in college that the doctor
thought something might be wrong. The diagnosis of endometriosis came during surgery at
the age of 19, but I had suffered since my second period at the age of 13. Finding out about
the Endometriosis Association in 1997, I joined. While a member, I purchased two books
that have helped me understand this horrible disease. My college did not understand what
was happening to me and asked me to take a leave because they felt I had an emotional
problem. Though I have tried to explain they will not listen, although I am a senior.
Transferring would mean losing most of my credits. So I wait before returning.
I am now 23 and will within the next three years (if I hold out) have a hysterectomy
because no treatment is working. I need surgery when possible. However I do not have health
insurance nor can I find anyone to pick me up and cover the preexisting conditions. Although
working part-time I am still not able to get medical assistance because I make over the
allotted amount per month. I moved out of my home hoping that having a place of my own
will enable me to obtain medical assistance. Time will tell.
Unfortunately my health is declining quickly and I am finding that some of my other
health problems have a link to the endometriosis. I have irritable bowel syndrome and
fibromyalgia that seem to get worse when the endometriosis does. I have spoken with a
couple of doctors to see if they would take payment arrangements, but they want either half
or all of the money up front. What is happening inside me? I am afraid to think about it.
The endometriosis is already on my bladder and urinary tract. Previous doctors have
removed over 12 inches of it off my bowels and areas surrounding along with my uterus and
right ovary. Wanting children is why I consider waiting on a hysterectomy. However, the
decision would be easier if I were married or at least dating.
Sincerely,
Dawn,
Pennsylvania
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