On Oversharing

Back in 2006, I started this blog as a way of keeping friends and family updated on Robb's condition, as he recovered from a spinal cord injury.

But I'd be lying if I said that this was the primary goal.  In truth, I started writing this blog as a way of protecting myself emotionally. I just could not bear to talk to every person who was concerned about Robb, and rehash all the same frightening details of his medical case.  Talking about it, over and over again, was tearing me apart. I needed to conserve my energy to deal directly with Robb's case.

The blog was my much-needed shield.

I could discuss the parts of Robb's recovery I was comfortable sharing. I could stay quiet about the things I considered nobody's business.  Folks who cared about Robb could feel connected. And I could avoid a lot of emotionally draining conversations at a time when I was totally exhausted, both physically and mentally.

This blog helped keep me from losing my equilibrium.  Robb got a ton of support, and I could manage my emotional and mental resources.

In the years since then, I've talked about a lot of very personal issues. And I've also kept silent on a number of topics that I didn't want to share with the entire internet.  I know there are a lot of people who find solace in discussing the minute details of their own and other people's medical conditions.  I am simply not one of those people.

I am, at heart, a very private person.

Having said all this, I want to let folks know that I'm going to be having some surgery next week. I've been dealing with an intractable and extremely painful medical condition for the last two years.  This is not a dangerous condition, but it has caused me unbelievable physical discomfort.  The non-surgical treatments have not improved anything. This condition has totally up-ended my life. 

After two years, I cannot continue to live with this level of pain.  

Readers will have to forgive my vague language on this topic.  My condition is not life-threatening.  Beyond that it's not anyone's business but my own.

I'd be very touched if you could think of me, particularly on Monday. But please, respect my boundaries at this time.