As I sit down to reflect on 2024, I can’t help but smile at the thought that every year feels like a roller coaster. It seems I write that every December! But the truth is, life isn’t meant to be smooth or predictable—it’s designed to teach us, mold us, and help us grow. This year was no exception. It began with a whirlwind of excitement and wrapped up as a powerful reminder of resilience, love, and the beauty of living in the moment.
Starting Strong: The Buzz of RareX
February set the tone with my first-ever RareX presentation. What an incredible opportunity to share my journey and connect with others who are passionate about rare diseases. While the excitement was palpable, it was also a time to learn the importance of managing my expectations and mental health. The lesson? It’s okay to pause, breathe, and remind myself that I don’t have to do it all at once.
March’s Milestone: Finding My Feet
One of my proudest achievements this year was publishing my first book, Finding My Feet. Holding it in my hands was surreal, a dream come true. Through this process, I learned to celebrate my wins—something I’ve often overlooked. It’s easy to brush past our accomplishments in the hustle of life, but this year taught me to stop and give myself the credit I deserve.
April’s Challenges: The Fight Against Pneumonia
Then came April, a month that tested me in ways I hadn’t faced in a decade. Double pneumonia knocked me down physically and emotionally. Fighting for my life while feeling the weight of not being there for my family was a struggle. But this chapter wasn’t just about survival—it was about growth. I came out stronger and more determined to appreciate the simple joys of life.
Adventures: Love and Life
As the year unfolded, I embraced new beginnings. In July, my boyfriend and I took the exciting step of moving in together. This brought its own lessons—patience, compromise, and the importance of making time for each other. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of daily life, but this year reminded me to slow down and cherish quality time with loved ones.
August brought celebration, as I stood beside my best friend at her wedding. I’ve always been hesitant to take up space, especially on someone else’s big day, but she made me feel valued and appreciated. Her kindness was a reminder that the people who love you want you to shine, no matter the occasion.
September’s Turning Point: A Life-Altering Operation
The hardest lesson came in September, when I underwent a significant surgery. While I hoped it would be purely positive, it brought unexpected emotional and physical challenges. Coming to terms with the changes hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned something invaluable: the people who truly love you will stand by you, no matter what. It’s a lesson I’ll carry with me forever.
Finding Gratitude in the Little Moments
This year has been filled with ups and downs, but one thing remains clear: the beautiful moments always outweigh the hard ones. The visitors, adventures, and quiet times with those I love reminded me to focus on the positives and keep my circle close.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As 2024 comes to a close, I’m ready for a reset. My heart is set on making 2025 a year of growth, happiness, and love. If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s to embrace life as the adventure it is. Every day is a chance to create memories, to grow, and to love fiercely.
To everyone who has followed my journey this year and beyond, thank you. Your support and encouragement mean the world to me. Here’s to making the most of this one precious life we have. Let’s make it unforgettable.
