You are a Whole Woman
After a hysterectomy, many women feel a sense of loss–-no matter what their age, no matter if they have a child or not, no matter if they thought they never wanted to have children. They feel a loss of possibility, a loss of choice.
Feelings range from a sense of emptiness or confusion to numbness and heartbreak at the thought of never holding their own newborn or sharing a child with their husband.
And many feel less of a woman because of this loss.
These emotions can be very strong and if you feel them, it is important for you to know and accept that they are normal and reasonable--especially right after your surgery. You need to allow yourself to grieve this loss; only by doing so will you allow the healing process to start.
Know that our body parts do not define us as real women. We are female in our brains and hearts much more than in our bellies. We are compassionate, loving, and willing to give of ourselves more than any of God’s creation. All women become infertile eventually. HysterSisters become so because they need surgery in order to be healthier.
You are still a woman if you've had a hysterectomy. Don't let anyone make you feel any differently. You are still whole.
Take Action
We regularly hear from HysterSisters who completely changed the course of their lives during the year or two after their surgeries.
Have you thought about going back to school? Getting more education? Do it.
Have you thought about staying at home, away from the hustle and bustle of the corporate environment? Thought about starting your own business? Do it.
Have you considered writing that book? Taking dance or painting classes? Do it.
Going deep sea diving? Going on a cruise? Touring the world? Do it.
Learning a new language? Gourmet cooking?
Volunteering at a local school? Church?
Have you thought about the extra pounds you are lugging around that drag you down?
It's not too late. Start today with your plan of action. Taking one step towards an exciting adventure is good for the soul.
The Importance of Friends
If you are not surrounded by friends who encourage you, now is a great time to add friends to your "to do" list.
Find friends in activities that interest you. Do you love art? Consider volunteering at a museum. Do you love history and geneology? Consider joining your local historial society. Join a local church. Do you like to travel? Join a travel group and see the world. Do you need to exercise and lose weight? Join Curves or Weight Watchers. Do you love to help others? Sign up to work at a local food pantry or food kitchen.
You will find new friends automatically embedded in your new activities.
Take the initiative. When you meet new friends, take the extra step after the class or assigned time. Invite them for coffee to learn more about them. Learn to become "other" oriented. Learn to be interested in their lives.
The Importance of Hope
Have you met women that seem to be content even when their circumstances aren't good? These women have learned the importance of hope.
Hope is important because it gives us something to talk about and to look forward. Hope gives us something to work towards. And hope gives us something to hang on to when the going gets tough.
Women with hope do not possess a magic pill or a perfect life. They do, however, have the ability to set aside their daily pain and fear and look towards tomorrow's sunrise with expectation that tomorrow will be better. Choose to be a woman of hope. The quality of your life can be better with hope!
Store »
Hysterectomy Checkpoints
Hysterectomy News [Read More]
grieving with no baby
