I’ve gone over the events of today so many times in my head in the past 15 years. I can remember how it smelled and what that doctor said before turning on her heel and leaving. Such profound words!
I never would have thought I would be in the place I am right now. Loss of control over my body was so slow that I barely remember being able to do things on my own. I know that I used to be able to but my memories of doing so are vague.
I’ve had MS for 15 years and only found Barwis about 2 1/2 years ago. It’s hard for me to believe that it has been so long. When I was young I looked forward to turning 15. My Quinceanera. My party with the dress and church service and attendants (damas y chambalines) and subsequent dinner and dance at some hall where my family and friends would party all night. Well, I didn’t have a Quinceanera when I turned 15. I stood up in a couple and have been to a number but as a family, we weren’t that immersed in Mexican culture when I was 15.
I talked with my cousin a while ago and told her that my Quinceanera was coming up. My 15th year having MS. We laughed and joked but couldn’t believe that it had been so long. I REALLY can’t believe it but what am I going to do? I just deal with the days as they come and work hard at Barwis. It hasn’t been easy nor do I expect it to be all of a sudden in the near future but I remember that today; I am La Quinceanera.