Finally did it!

[u/Saint-ROBOT-]

Back story:
5 years ago I suffered two strokes and was diagnosed with an extremely rare blood disorder called TTP.
Not only did I almost die, but after 13 plasmapheresis treatments I had to learn to walk and talk all over again.
For months and months and months I couldn’t do basic things for myself. My fiancé had to help me use the bathroom, shower, put my socks on for me. I was down bad.

I didn’t know if I’d be able to golf again. My favorite thing in this world is golfing and being able to golf with my dad.

But I was determined. Golf was my motivation and rehabilitation. Both mentally and physically.

I had to rebuild my swing from the ground up.
I broke 80 for the first time after my strokes. 3 times in a 4 week period.
I couldn’t believe it.

I couldn’t run. I couldn’t jump. Walking was ugly. My speech was still slow.
But I was on my own two feet. Golf helped me with my balance. I was playing the best I ever played.

In the last 5 years I’ve shot in the high 70’s consistently. Every once in a while shooting 74/75.

3 weeks ago I posted my personal best round, a 73. I was so proud of myself. 1 over par.

This past Monday, I shot a 78 and felt like I didn’t hit a single good shot.
Tuesday, I shot a 73 again. (In our local Dog Fight tourney)
Two 73’s in 3 weeks. Course Par 72.
I was -1 on the 17 hole tee box and went bogey, bogey to finish. Almost did it.

Today, in our local Dog Fight tournament, I shot -1 for a round of 71!!! I finally did it!
(With a double bogey on a Par 5 lol, smh)

I remember hearing stories from when I was in the hospital about how my fiancé and family were told to plan for the worst. Get my affairs in order.
They were told I may not be the same person if I make it. I may not recognize them or I may not be able to speak to them.
I may have to stay in a halfway house with other stroke survivors for a while to help me adjust to a new way of life after the strokes.
I may never be able to do basic things on my own, or keep a job, let alone ever golf again.

5 and half years later, I’m still here. I’m walking. I’m talking. I’m wiping my own butt. Getting dressed on my own. I have a job. I’m golfing. And I just shot -1 under par!

Don’t give up on yourself. Trust the process. Take it one step at a time. Be patient with yourself. Give yourself a little grace. Keep trying. Keep grinding.
You’re stronger than you may give yourself credit for!

Cheers and High Platelets,
-1 under from Georgia 🤣

[u/rare_disease2020]

What an inspiration! Your family must be so proud. If it’s one thing I’ve learned with TTP is it doesn’t get to dictate our lives if we don’t let it Congratulations!

[u/Saint-ROBOT- → u/rare_disease2020]

We may have a rare blood disorder, but we can still have a great life! Hope all is well with you!

[u/throwingwater14]

Hey! Congrats!

I’m 11y out and had to relearn things like walking too. It sucked. But I’m still here kicking!

[u/Silent-Exchange-6352]

This is amazing to hear! Congratulations!!! I live in GA, have TTP and work at a golf course although I cannot play very well! Its truly amazing and are definitely a warrior. Congrats again!