Illness Initiates the Process of Transformation

When diagnosed with a chronic or life-threatening illness transformation begin the moment the doctor gives you the news. Transformation is the cornerstone of what will become your ally as you take on the challenges associated with your illness. The choice is up to you how you use these transformative powers. We’ve all heard the person who has been diagnosed with some horrendous illness who says that it was a gift. It may be difficult to believe or understand, but it’s really punctuating the transformation process, not the illness.

The difficult situation for many of us is that it takes some huge force of energy to shift us out of a life of complacency. An illness diagnosis is certainly a catapulting event that throws you into a universe filled with questions and possibility. What most don’t realize is that transformation takes focus, concentration and energy. It is an intentional activity. Following the diagnosis it’s the choice you make about how you will take on this health challenge.

The process of transformation is similar to that of the pilgrims who set out on long journeys to shrines hoping for healing. These individuals are called to embark on this journey to prove their commitment to getting well. At the time they embark on this journey they do so without knowing what will happen every step along the way. Following your diagnosis your choice to empower yourself and make mindful and informed judgments about care is your pilgrimage. You are called and if you choose to heed the call, you’ll experience challenges, set backs and triumphs that will invigorate your journey to wellness.

One of the obstacles related to transformation is that it can often be short lived. Studies from Johns Hopkins University show that once heart disease patients pass through the stage of being critical, they begin to revert back to their old bad habits of poor nutrition and lack of exercise. The goal is to experience the transformation and fortify the new activities with a commitment and a vow to continue these changes in hopes of putting the disease behind you.

The areas that most people experience transformation are regarding stress, work/life balance and appreciation for family and friends. You may believe that you were scared into making these changes and at first that may have been the truth. When you are able to create a relationship with the changes is when you know transformation has taken place. It’s a shift in priorities. It’s the gift you give yourself to make better choices about how you spend your time and money. It sends a message to family and friends that you intend to be more present with them and intend on getting well to stay a part of their daily lives.

We hear the word transformation and feel it is mystical or magical. The truth is that when you decide to become informed about your health and your illness you have made a transformative shift. While going through treatment when you decide to leave the office on time and not take work home so you can spend time with your family; that’s a transformative action. Knowing what foods give you energy and build your immune system is a transformative experience. It’s not rocket science, but it must be a conscious decision on your part and it’s a commitment that needs to last a lifetime.

Surviving Strong
Mentoring those facing health challenges by inspiring, supporting and educating patients on personal health advocacy