It’s that time – time to write my yearly newsletter ushering in the New Year.
This year, I wanted to find something that would snap synapses, engender good spirits and be truly inspirational. I was looking for a phrase in which to ground my column – a phrase that would realistically mirror my naturally optimistic mind set, while recognizing the challenges and hurdles we face, at present, both here in the United States and worldwide.
And I found it.
Hope no matter how complex™
You may notice the small TM beside it. That’s because this phrase is not original; it is trademarked. And it stems from the website of a non-profit organization, the TSC Alliance, that deals with a health issue called Tubular Sclerosis Complex (TSC)
There is no cure for TSC. The management of TSC focuses on the treatment of the symptoms and their complications.
People who suffer from TSC live under a shadow of uncertainty and fear – never knowing when a manifestation of the complex will suddenly appear.
Quite simply, TSC is a genetic disorder. Often discovered in utero, it is characterized by the growth of benign tumors in various organs, including the brain, kidneys, skin, heart and lungs. Caused by either a rogue mutation or an inherited proclivity, the life span of these individuals is usually normal. However, about 90% of the population living with TSC have seizures – varying in intensity and frequency – which need to be properly managed – along with degrees of possible cognitive impairment and dermatological issues. Ongoing research, raising awareness, proper management of the complex and early intervention all help families and individuals manage care and cope with their individual health concerns.
The presence of TSC engenders many emotions:
Fear of the unknown
Uncertainly about the future
Confusion/exhaustion
Lack of a clear way forward
Sound familiar? These feelings are not unlike what many of us as citizens of the United States feel every day too.
But even when circumstances appear threatening to our well-being, we can persevere by clinging to the belief that we have the strength to power through.
That’s what hope is: resilience under adverse circumstances.
And what does the word complex call to mind? Complex refers to something that is made up of multiple interconnected parts – something that is complicated – something without clear answers or a delineated path to solutions.
Hope no matter how complex™
The TSC alliance, like other disease-oriented organizations, brings those afflicted and their families together. It’s harnessing the power of community when faced with intricate challenges. Together, under one umbrella organization, personal growth can flourish and understanding, inner strength and fortitude can emerge
What does the TSC Alliance do that we can mirror?
They advocate
They donate
They research
They educate
They raise awareness
They gather together
They share their stories of struggle
They create a future where everyone can live their fullest lives
And they get up each day and begin anew
Let’s embrace that mindset going forward in the New Year of 2025.
We’ll need it.
Keep Preserving Your Bloom,
P.S. I am embarking on a new adventure in 2025: I am up-cycling garments for re-sale and I am looking for someone who sews and has a keen eye for design and embellishments.
If you know someone who fits that description, I’d so appreciate your reaching out to them for me. I can be contacted at funkycreations47@gmail.com.
Thank you so very much.
The only caveat? They need to live in easy driving distance to South Tampa.
Thank you!