The one thing there is to know about me is that I am interested in pursuing a career involving medicine in the future not only because I love science, but also because I have been lucky enough to be a patient of one of the best hospitals in the world, Boston Children’s Hospital, for the past 3 years.

        My name is Samantha. I am a teen living with chronic pain. I have a permanent headache, permanent abdominal pain, and am currently dealing with long-lasting hip pain. Some of which health professionals cannot understand. My syndrome has inspired me to learn more about what I and many others struggle with each day due to health issues. I have researched and read books on everything from chronic pain syndromes to leukemia to schizophrenia.

        In the future, I want to give others the chance that I was never given by many doctors. I’m not sure what my role will be yet- if I want to be a doctor, specialist, or even combine the practices of medicine and law, but I do know that my experiences have shaped who I am. I am not my pain. A person is not their diagnosis. However, it does factor into who we can choose to become. I see things in a whole different light. I am a different person than I was before. I am stronger, and I’ve learned not to be afraid of who I am. Yes, I have pain. Yes, it’s a unique situation. Yes, it is surprising that I am able to stay in school AND mentally deal with my struggles. Thank you SO MUCH for reminding me!

        This blog is for anyone who is or knows someone who is dealing with health issues or anyone who wants to learn more about any topics from mental health to psychology to pain.

        There is a particular quote that began to inspire me throughout my attendance at an outpatient rehabilitation program that I would like to share with you all.

“Make up your mind that no matter what comes your way, no matter how difficult, no matter how unfair, you will do more than simply survive. You will thrive in spite of it.” – Joel Osteen

~Samantha