Silent sufferers.
They’re the people you don’t know are hurting, the ones who are quietly struggling. They rarely show signs of weakness. They’re the strongest people you know.
Why am I talking about this? Because I consider myself one of them.
One morning in July, as I was getting out of bed, I was hit with a sudden onset of vertigo. The room was violently spinning. I felt drunk.
I couldn’t focus. I couldn’t concentrate. If I had to stand for any reason, I needed to lean on something to keep me steady.
This continued for weeks.
With the start of fall semester approaching, I finally decided to see a doctor. She tried a few maneuvers and tested my blood but was unsuccessful in finding a solution. I was then referred to a physical therapist who specializes in vertigo.
Before beginning any sessions, I completed a lengthy questionnaire and underwent an evaluation. Based on the results, it was determined that I was suffering from Vestibular Neuritis. The disorder affects the inner ear due to inflammation and damage to the vestibular nerve, which is often the result of a viral infection such as a cold or sinusitis.
That same day, I began Vestibular Rehabilitation Treatment, an exercise-based treatment that involves components of gaze stabilization and balance. At the end of my second session, I was advised to do all required exercises at home each day to correct my balance. It was also advised that I continue my normal activities and stay active.
I obliged. I worked the Florida Gators home football games as a volunteer for UF’s Athletic Association, I started a new job at my college, and I continued working at a local law firm as well as a weekly shift at ESPN WRUF. I accepted these responsibilities on top of taking four courses. I was active. And it seemed to be working. But not for long.
The vertigo returned with a vengeance after a few months.
It was at that moment I realized this health issue was something I would need to adjust my life around. And I was determined not to let it interfere with my performance at work or school.
I decided I didn’t want my health to be an excuse as to why I couldn’t submit an assignment on time or why I couldn’t get something done at work. That’s not me. That’s never been me. That will never be me.
So, I work extra hard at everything I do, and it’s paid off. I finished the semester with three A’s and one A-, an absolute miracle, and I’m getting better at my job each day.
Before your mind even goes there, no, this isn’t a brag post. Rather, a motivational one.
Life is going to throw things at you. There will always be something in your way. And when that happens, you have two options: remove it or find a way around it. It’s not easy, by any means. But allowing something to keep you from moving forward should never be an option.
Never.