Is There Purpose In The Pain? Living with chronic illnesses.

04/07/2026

I’ve been a little quiet on this page lately not because the journey stopped, but because I’m still learning how to carry it.
Living with chronic illness isn’t just physical it stretches you emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Some days you’re strong, and other days you’re just trying to understand why this is your portion. And if I’m being honest, I’ve been in that place still coming to grips with it all.

This Friday, I’m scheduled for another arteriogram on my leg due to PAD. Another procedure. Another moment where faith has to be louder than fear.
But even here, I’m reminded pain is not without purpose.

Purpose doesn’t always feel powerful. Sometimes it looks like showing up scared trusting anyway and choosing not to give up when your body is tired and your mind is overwhelmed.

If you’re walking this road too, I want you to know:
You’re not weak for feeling it.
You’re not alone in fighting it.
And your pain still has purposeeven on the days you don’t understand it.

I’m still here. Still trusting. Still believing there’s purpose in this pain.

03/12/2026

02/20/2026

know I can’t be the only one out there that feels like this. Maybe maybe I’m saying the quiet part out loud because I don’t hear many others say anything about it but if you are like this just know that you’re not alone.

02/04/2026

"I am a donor mom. I donated my son’s organs after he died from a traumatic brain injury he sustained in an automobile accident. I had no knowledge of organ donation and transplantation prior to his death, but the organ procurement team nurse helped me through the process, and my son's organs improved the lives of several folks waiting, including an 11-year-old boy. In addition to being a rainbow in someone’s cloud, meeting his heart recipient helped me through my grief process. Organ donation changes and saves lives." – Carolyn, honoring her son, Jerrell. 💙💚 Donate Life Connecticut New England Donor Services

In honor of Black History Month, we reflect on the nearly 43,000 Black donors to date who have generously given the gift of life. Their selfless acts are a testament to the power of community and the profound impact of giving. Currently, over 29,000 Black patients are waiting – this number represents lives on hold and families hoping for a second chance. Let's work together to close the gap and celebrate these lifesaving heroes by continuing to raise awareness of the importance of donation in our communities.