Gather Your Troops

Bradford Smith

In 2001, without warning, I was struck with a life altering chronic illness: cardiomyopathy. This refers to a permanent enlarged and weakened heart muscle, and there is no cure for this disease. And yet 5 years later, in spite of this unfortunate event, I was able to return to college, enjoy the birth of my 3 grandchildren, and become an accomplished photographer. I did this because I decided back then, to take control of my life. I wasn't going to allow my illness to take that from me.

I share this, rather personal, information with you in the hopes that somewhere out there, someone with a life altering illness or disability will be encouraged and turn their life around and take control of it. It can be done. Do not sit there and let your illness or disability control your life. Get up and take command, even if all you can do is get dressed for the day. Get out and show people, through your illness or disability, that there is hope. That no matter what adversity comes their way, that they can over come it. Let them see your accomplishments, so they can see that a person can pick up the pieces of their shattered life, and rebuild it.

Since 2001 I have been blessed with three important things in my life; the love of my children and their mother, who have stood by me in some of my darkest hours; a group of excellent doctors; and finally, a community of gifted young artists, who welcomed me into their community, as I took on this incredible journey with my photography. Without these important people in my life, I really think my illness would have totally taken over and destroyed my life.

What can you do? Tomorrow morning gather your troops, family and friends, and declare war on your illness or disability. Get mad, and decide that your illness or disability my effect your day, but it will not be allowed to control your life!

 

Bradford Smith is a free-lance writer and editor of the daily Art Beat Blog at www.artisticphoto.blogspot.com , covering the art scene in the Greater Port Huron area. In addition, Mr. Smith writes articles dealing with chronic illness, senior citizens and the humorous side of life.

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