Unlike the short story, I haven't literally been pummeled with stones... But it shows that it can be used with a negative connotation. And we are all aware of the positive connotation of winning THE lottery and being financially independent afterwards.
Doctors have used the analogy of the lottery mostly because of how MANY serious illnesses that I have and how many medications that I have ended up having severe reactions to. Things could be a hell of a lot worse and I am blessed that I can handle what I am going through - but I do feel a little unlucky. Okay maybe not a little. I feel unlucky when it comes to my health.
Where I WON the lottery is actually in many aspects of my life.
1. I was born and raised in Canada. One of the best health care systems in the world. It is pretty evident that if I were living in the States I would have either passed away from health complications or been homeless. (Or changed my moral outlook and married just for money to get medical coverage).
2. My family. I see so many people who are ill or struggling who have no family support. Or who have some support but not the belief or the respect of their family. I am lucky to have family who not only support me, but they are there through everything, they don't question me or test me or get angry with me on days where I am bedridden but LOOK completely fine. There were some harder times when I first got sick, by all means. These are really tough illnesses to comprehend because of their invisibility... But after a few arguments and a few glitches here and there, (while continuing to be supportive), I have the best and most understanding family.
3. Friends.
I really did win the lottery as my friends are concerned. They are understanding and supportive and if ever I need someone or I am in a bind, I know that I can call one of several and they would be there. And vice versa. I would do anything for any number of them.
Like anyone, I do have fair weather friends who only seem to be around when I am feeling better and who only come by when I have been able to have tons of energy and go out and 'party', but overall I have the most amazing collection of friends someone could ask for.
4. Health care coverage.
I am lucky enough to be able to focus on my health and doing my best to get healthy. I am able to be at home, I have been able to reduce my stress levels, and really pay attention to my health. My health is my job, and I am lucky enough to have the support that I need to lead a relatively normal life at home.
5. My puppy.
Yeah he is always at the top of my list as far as support goes. He is incredible and I am not quite sure I would have gotten through the last couple of years without having him around.
6. Opportunities.
I have had the fortunate chance of taking advantage of some pretty cool opportunities. From activities to conversations to attending conferences and information sessions. I actually feel incredibly accomplished in my life despite all of the struggles that I have had.
7. Doctors
I have had the privilege of working with some of the best specialists in the province, if not the entire country. I have been able to not only get some of the best care (in between some of the not-so-great experiences), and I have learned a hell of a lot in the process. Care and knowledge.
I feel very lucky to have the life that I have, regardless of the medical problems that I face. I would much rather deal with the pain and agony and stress that I deal with on a daily basis than having some of the other issues that I won the lottery on mentioned above.
Doctors may say that I hit the 'jackpot' of the amount of illnesses, but I think the rest of my life ALMOST balances it out. Almost. ;)
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