Let’s Celebrate Today !
Rockin' the Hot Hospital Gown
Dear Friends and Contacts, (Warning: This gets personal)
“Be transparent. Be you. Let people in.”
Those are the words I have practiced and taught in my social networks both virtually and in the real world, actually. The relationships that have been made because of it are beyond measure to me. I’ve always appreciated them – if you are one of the special people in my life I hope you can tell that. When I’ve had the opportunity for face-to-face meet ups, I’m thrilled to see friends that I have and have not yet had the opportunity of a f2f hug.
I’ve struggled with my definition of transparency lately, and I’ve opted to use my discretion until I’m sure of how transparent I want to be. I don’t want to hide things from people – but you don’t really want to know it all. I want to help others who may face the same things in their life. I try to put myself on “the other side” and wonder just how many details would I want? And why. I don’t want you to worry. I don’t want you to pity me.
Many continue to wonder exactly what happened to Kim Wood’s world? I’m ready to tell you some bits and pieces. Please don’t push me for more. Please don’t push my friends and family to tell you more. There is a line between being open and privacy. I’ve lingered the line – and appreciate my family and Sarah, my tweetspokesBFF for protecting my privacy until I am ready to share.
I went to my family doctor to receive the results of annual blood work. (pssst they were really good! My weight loss efforts paid off – cholesterol and A1C were good !) As her normal routine, she layed me back on the table and pushed on my belly.
“ooh”, I said, just a little ooh, not an OOOOH.
“Does that hurt?” Dr. G asked.
“Just a little. I’m fine… move on.” (I had two real estate appointments that afternoon a buyer and a seller!)
“Kim. Tell me where you are tender.”
My doctor is thorough. I knew this might mean an afternoon full of tests that would prove nothing. I didn’t have time for it.
“Dr. G. Really, I’m fine. I feel good.”
Thankfully she takes her job very seriously, and she sorta kinda got firm like a Mom would. Off I head to the hospital for a CT Scan. Quick contacted my scheduled clients, my Mom, and two friends. (Mom and friends had the same reaction, “is this the doctor that goes to the specialists for everything?” “Yes”. We sorta of sighed it off.)
“I will call you after your scan is read. Just wait there.” were Dr. G’s instructions.
“Dr. G would like to see you back in her office.” The technician told me. Slight panic set in.
This circulated around Twitter
I knew potential results of this scan, I had asked. They weren’t all that good. Why did she want me in person to her office? Off I went. Scared.
Phew. Not too bad. Not the “C” word anyway. I needed to be admitted into Chester County Hospital for Diverticulitis. Hospital? Yes, I needed IV Antibiotics for a few days to kill it. I walked onto the floor and the nurses looked around for the patient. I smiled, waved and said, “I’m her!” I requested my laptop right away, talked to a first-time client about (and since have listed) selling his home, worked almost the entire time, and was tweeting about being stuck in many ways around my IV. I walked the halls, circled the helipad, and planned my escape route.
Ten days later, I was back in the ER for a suspected allergy to the meds (they’re poison) ! During my stay, I got another scan, which did not show Diverticulitis sticking around anymore! Yay – it was gone ! Discharged at 9:00 PM, one book and 10 hours later.
But….
Something bad happened.
Something scary.
Something unplanned.
Three hours later I was curled up in so much pain on the floor. Back to the ER, no question where I needed to be. But the diverticulitis was gone? After many hours, pain meds, XRays, CT Scan, MRI without any conclusions or diagnosis – I was told, “We have to go in.” Did I mention I didn’t like getting stuck? My pain was so severe even through my own push button pain meds- I didn’t care – just fix it. Princess20 was the only of my children that made it to the hospital before I went in. So I called AChrome23 and LittleOne6 to tell them again I loved them. Just in case.
Thankfully I woke in ICU hours later, without gorey details, I do have an open “wound” type of a deal. I cried. I heard how much of a mess I was and that not caught I could have died. I was told “it’s not a big deal.” It was a big deal for me. I was on a healthy road and I wanted to continue being a runner. It was around the 5th day of my 10 day stay, when I started to come to my senses and began weaning myself off of my “fly high” pain meds, that I asked the surgeon, Dr. R, “So… what are the chances I’ll ever be back to normal again? 10%? 80%? What?” The next words I repeat over and over again almost every day as I continue to struggle, “Kim! 100%! You have a 100% that I will be able to ‘fix’ you. It’ll be about 3 months.”
Today is one month. I’m celebrating ! I struggle with something every day. Sometimes it’s a mental thing. I want to run. Sometimes it’s a physical thing. It hurts. Sometimes I’m happy. Overwhelmed with the love that I’ve felt in the last month. My family has been next to me. Bringing meals, keeping me company, visits in the hospital, protecting me my HIPPAA, loving me, helping with LittleOne6, and being the most awesome support system I could ask for. My friends and acquaintances around the country with virtual handholding, hugs, flowers, texts, calls, tweets, wall posts, cookies, daily notes, cards, blips, books, thoughts, and prayers. I continue to be wow’d almost every single day.
My road feels long. Often can be very lonely as people try to understand. Thank you. Thank you for caring. Thank you for counting down 2 more months with me !
And I respect and shout out to @SusanReynolds, @drew, and @QueenofSpain – who remain transparent in their medical fights of their own. You helped me have the courage to share a piece of my story – and I hope it helps, a mere one person.
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You brave Girl – Congratulations on month one down, two to go!
I met you f2f once for about 4 minutes at #REBCPHL and was very grateful to have people like you who unselfishly volunteered for the good of the entire community. I don’t need any details, I am just glad you are back on your feet and back in the community with us.
Thanks, Kim, for all your work. I am glad you are well.
Take good care of yourself.
Regards,
Joe Sheehan (jsheehan200)
Sometimes it’s crazy how a little checkup can grow into such a big thing. But at least they caught it and did what they had to do. No one should ever push you into sharing personal info. You share because you know people care and they want to know. It isn’t about pity, it’s about worry. If people care about you, then they worry when they get sick. Sure you can feel uneasy telling people your dirty laundry ( or whatever the case may be ) because you worry about what they might think. Hey i’m still trying to work on that my personal self. But as the great Dr. Seuss says “Those who mind, don’t matter. Only those who matter don’t mind”. I may be paraphrasing a word or two, but i’m close enough. All I can say is I am glad you will get better, and It’s awesome that you are still doing your thing and working through this hard time. Go you!
proud of you, Kim, and looking forward to that run together!
Kim,..
YES! It is truly time to celebrate, more than one month’s recovery from a not-so-uncommon disease that so many share, but more for your ability to speak of it, to share with others. Diverticulitis is an angry, mean, and sneaky little devil. What a blessing you are recovering!
My grandfather struggled late in life with diverticulitis and it eventually took his life in his late 80’s. My best friend who is in her 30’s suffers with it, and we support and care for her battle as she is as active as you and managing terrifically! Being as young as you are, and as healthy, you will manage this and it will make you stronger! However, what sounds like an insignificant bowel disease is a killer if it attacks suddenly causing internal sepsis. There is much you can offer to educate others of signs and symptoms..many warnings, dietary precautions and bits of advice I am sure you will be able to share with others as well.
Stay strong! As a “C” survivor…it is a matter of the mind, the will and the support of your friends. Chin up and Congratulations!
Sweetie, I feel for you, and though I have to admit I’m curious as a reporter for TMZ, all I really care about is that you’re doing OK & are getting better.
Hey, you know that even at half-strength you’re far equal to most others at 100%!
I’m celebratin’ with a little #randomdancing at my desk for you. Go Kim!
Kim,
You are amazing. Congrats on the recovery and continued good news. I’m pulling for ya.
Rob
That was brave of you to share with everyone. I know you will make a 100% recovery. You are strong mentally and physically. Love ya…M
I know how hard it is to be transparent regarding something so personal. Your friends understand your need for privacy and will be by your side as you make it back to 100%. You bring so much joy to so many people. It’s our turn to repay the favor! ((HUGS)) and Mew.
We’ve never met in person, but I’ve been following you on Twitter and Facebook for a while. I’m bowled over by your news. It sounds like you did exactly what needed to be done and your efforts are paying off. Congratulations on your recovery so far and best wishes that it continues on smoothly.
Kim — I just want you to know…from one 100% transparent person to another…We respect and completely understand your want for privacy in this. We know you will share details as you feel comfortable in doing so…and we patient stand by your side until that time comes — if you ever decide that it is time. Until then, we are here FOR you…not as a burden TO you, but as a pillar for you to lean on as needed. If you ever need anything, I am a phone call away, sweetheart!
And, with the one month thing in mind…Im chair dancin’ for you right now!
Hi Kim, I had no idea and truly hope for your FULL and speedy recovery. It sounds like you have a fabulous safety net of people surrounding you and your family. I’ll do a little #randomdancing for you with Derek! For now… One down, two to go — GO Kim GO!
Thank you so much for your support once again. I wrote this post for people like you….. people who cared and had a heart of concern.
Coop – I <3 U. You’ve been by my side in many different ways through stuff you didn’t want to know. I appreciate that.
Joe – It was fun, fun, fun ! Looking forward to REBCPHL 2010 already
(And watch for Chester County Tweetups)
OrangeCarlos – Can I call you that? Thank you for your kind words of encouragement – and I <3 Dr Seuss !
Jeremy – THE RUN! THE RUN! I can’t wait !!!! Such an awesome and thoughtful idea – I look SOOOO forward to it
!!!!!!
Debbie – HUGS. Yes, the doctor said it was a potential killer for me – there was a big, big mess in there. Glad my doctor did NOT listen to me dismissing it in the beginning !
Derek – Rob – Monica – Random dancing, celebrating however you can join me —- YAY !
Sarah – Meow and BIG, BIG HUG. Thank you for that !
Nathan – And I still look forward to meeting you! I haven’t given up yet
I’m glad you dropped by!
Clint – You are a sweetie I really need a f2f with, Clint. Can’t wait……. thanks for dancing – two more months – YAY !!!!!!
Kim,
Brian had a case of this diverticulitis on 16’s Homecoming her Freshman year in HS. To see him laying curled on the floor begging me to take him to the hospital… well…to say the least it was frightning! (I knew we were in trouble when he asked for me to drive him anywhere! LOL) In any case, you will be back on your feet in no time at all. I want you to know that on the days I really don’t feel like running….I think of you…Get my behind off the couch…and RUN! One day WE will get the F2F hug and a quick run around the park =) Till that day…I will run for you till you get better ::hugs::
You are awesome for sharing this. Sometimes, it is hard to let everyone in to our very personal lives. I am still struggling with where to draw the line sometimes also
@kmcusick
Lisa – Randomdancing is always good times – I like that
Kristina – YES! THAT is the reason I share !!! You are running – super doooper coolio ! I check on DailyMile and love to see people’s updates – I’m happy and grateful that you can run….. Did you hear ? There is a group of us that are going to meet for a quick fun run (my goal is fun run anyway, haha) when I get back to it – - – come out to VA area for it
(Or maybe at least run at the same time where you are 
HUGS !
You are my hero, you know that, you have been my inspiration, and were the first one to reach out and check on me in the hospital. Your spirit shines through everything you do, and your positive outlook will overcome all. You are so kind and generous and wonderful. I am so glad to know you, and lucky to live near you. I can’t wait to see you run your next 5k, or Marathon! I will be there cheering you on!! So very very proud of you Kim!
Love you, and love your kind words, your inspiring me, and your choosing to share your battle – one which you will win, which we all know, anyone who knows you can’t help me recognize that quality in you. And commence with #randomdancing and lets go dancing when you and I are up to it!! My treat!! 6 can stay at my house with my 6 and drive Daddy crazy! ILY!
Kim, It is so good to hear you are getting better. Somehow I missed the onset of your emergency, but I here now! Hang in there and do what the people in the white coats tell you to do. You will be happy you did.
Maya – and you have been a support to me as well. I appreciate you checking in with me – and your understanding.
Kris – No biggie! I’m glad you are here now
((HUGS))
Kim; Way to tough it out – transparency may be over rated, sharing your story soothers can grow is not. Big hugs to you- Can’t wait for the next time we’re out and about together- Now just heal and get better so you can run or dance, or skip or take photo walks – You have given so much love to so many that you deserve all the love you get sent back -
Cheers, baby! I salute you! You were very, very missed and we were very, very worried. Details are not necessary, just updates on how YOU are. One down, two to go – meet you next month for another toast!
Dear Kim,
I knew you were down but I also knew it wouldn’t be for long. I’m glad to hear about the details. My BF from college had this at 23 and they said…this is just from your heritage (thanks Dad, she says) and now she is very very careful about diet and doing great and it has been years.
I’m glad to hear all is okay!! Glad to hear you are healing. Amazing that you were working. Amazing, my dear.
Best wishes to quick recovery. Complete and continued working out. We are so happy you are getting better.
Kim I had the same thing happen to me. I ended up having surgery. It was a crazy time. And the pain is incredible. I could not take enough meds to take away the pain. That was seven years ago. I do as I wish now and eat what I want (within reason). It is scary to realize how serious this is I totally understand. I also understand your need for privacy. I like to think of myself as transparent. It is not that I would ever “hide” or be who I am not. However, I need my own time to process what life throws my way in my own way. This is how I am and how I have been even before having an on line presence. Having an on line presence does not negate my need for privacy or having to figure out how I am going to deal with whatever life brings me. There shouldn’t be a question regarding this in my humble opinion.
Bill & Nanette – Yes! Privacy & Transparency – they aren’t apples to apples
I so do appreciate that no matter what – I’ve had the support – and yes Bill – if it helps ONE PERSON – than that has made it worth it !!!
Speaking of which – if anyone stops by who is going through this – please email me – I’d be happy to talk further and more detailed if it helps in any way.
Elaine – I hear your cheers – and YES August 7th and COUNTING Baby !
Karen – Better slowly, but I’m ok to wait till later this year to be back. In a few years – I’m sure I’ll barely remember this big PA-road-like-pothole !
Kim, I’ve been over and over your tweets thinking I’ve missed something. I’ve never said anything to you because I felt like I was intruding (even though I follow you!) but now I’m saying it – I’m so glad you are feeling better, and that you will continue to get better!
Kim, I had no idea you were going through so much! You are a strong woman and have a lot of fight and determination in you. You will come through this an even stronger person with an unprecedented appreciation for life and all the little things that we tend to take for granted. Only 2 more months to go! You can do it, hang in there. You will be running again in no time! By sharing your experience you will be able to help others get through it and know that they are not alone.
If you need anything of course let me know!
Kim!! I haven’t ‘talked’ to you in a while!!! Glad you stopped by
My tweets didn’t say a whole lot … and I talk too much for you to see back to the ones in June when I was open about the hospital stay – so it’s all good 
Thank you – you are *not* intruding – and one of these days – we must do the f2f thingy 
Colleen !! My friend ! Thank you for your encouragement – I appreciate it
It sure has not been fun – but hopefully I’ll barely remember it all in a few years.
Kim – Transparency schmansparency – do what is best for you and your family first. And, just know, even if tomorrow you were to go totally silent here in cyberspace, we’d all still be surrounding you with lots of love, light and healing energy as long as you needed it.
Oh yeah – could you work through that recovery thing a little quicker? I think you owe me and Gloria a girls’ night out!
xo
Kim- you were an inspiration in high school and you still are. I have always looked up to you and the way you have handled the hurdles life has thrown you. Stay strong and get through this next one. You have many people in your life waiting for you on the other side!
Kim,
I’ve read this 3 times and am teary eyed. You are braver than I could ever hope to be, and your courage is something that is awesome.
Kris
One day at a time, Kim. It’s all about the forward movement, isn’t it?
Congrats on your anniversary!
Hiya Ms. Dimples – we continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers for months 2, 3 and beyond. May you heal quicker than timetables say and be back running and doing more than you ever dreamed or imagined. Virtual hugs to you until we meet again!
Kim – sharing what you have isn’t easy, but so many appreciate that you did. And I can see through the comments that diverticulitis isn’t uncommon. I don’t know that is, the next thing I’ll be doing is googling to read about it.
I have written about things in my life over the last year that were not easy at all to write about, but I did, and am glad I did. I know it took a lot for you to write this as well, and I hope you’re glad you did.
You are an amazing person, you give so freely – we all mirror back the love and friendship to you that you’ve given to us. The online world we’re part of is huge and when things like this happen, you realize just how huge it really is – all the people you touch and have touched reaching out to you with good thoughts, well wishes, love, friendship, and more. I have been the recipient of that as well when I lost Bear a year ago, and all of that continues to this day, just as it will all stay for you, too.
You are a VERY special person and I am SO glad to know you and to have been able to meet you in person and share those hugs!
Here’s another one – {{{{HUGS!!}}}}
Ann
Hi Kim,
Just want to send you hugs and many many warm wishes..Congrats because each day is a gift…each day is special…and each day you will get stronger! It’s hard to be transparent sometimes but when we let so many people into our lives and disappear a little while..it gets people wondering and worried. Thank you for sharing and I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers!
Kim,
Big Hugs! I am very proud of you and I know you’ll be back running and doing all the things you love to do soon.
While time might seem to be going very slowly as you wait to heal your body, it is the very thing you need… time to get healthy and get strong. It will happen and you’ll be a stronger person for all the trauma you’ve gone through.
See you soon
Kim,
Look at all the mountains you have climbed since being a teenager! You are a strong, determined, successful, beautiful woman! Keep your head held high and your spirits up! Thinking about you daily and hope your recovery continues smoothly!
Susan – I think your “T.Z” got flagged as spam – sorry! I appreciate that some people don’t have to know the details to still support. It rocks!
Judy – Oh the motivating the girls’ night comment is
YES! And I thank you for your powerful healing energy – it is appreciated soooo much.
Diana & Chris – Wow. Comments from friends in high school – you guys rock! And yes – through the challenges I survive and that *is* what I will do !!!! Until I’m that older woman that I played on stage missing her best friend Clara
Kris – I’m glad I don’t see it as a choice – I just plug along… sometimes slow, but plug I will!
Teri – YES! Forward is good – even when the steps are small ones. HUGS TO YOU.
Bobby – My DIMPLES Bud ! Thanks for your continued smiles – and the connection that was there and I wasn’t sure why… but I felt it. HUGS TO MRS BOBBY !
Ann – You have been through some yucky times – and I see how far you’ve made it and smile. You’ve made me smile more than I’ve told you – by seeing you in my tweet stream, or glancing at your card…. you are there smiling.
Midori – I’m glad to see you! It’s been a good thing to share this story – I think on both sides
Through the transparency that I’ve chosen, people that have been through the same stuff have been able to reach out – and people that will face it in the future I hope will get some comfort – and …. know they can come to me 
Monika – I love that I can HEAR you cheering. I can hear your voice saying your words to me. For that – I’m so thankful.
You know how much I care about you Kim. I have to admit now that I was worried when I got the DM that you were in the hospital. But I know how strong you are and that you have a great support system in place so I just knew everything was going to work out. I just didn’t want you to think for one second that you were not missed at #REBCSF and #ICSF. So I took some short videos that can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EmiIcuW2j4
I hope this makes you smile a little bit and show you how much people really care about you and miss you when you’re not around.
D
Kim:
Think of you everyday & send all sorts of good positive energy your way.
<<<>>> <<<>>>>
C.
Kim – thank you for sharing. It’s difficult to do so, especially with such a private topic. Just know that my prayers are with you on your journey. When you have one of ‘those’ days where nothing seems right … just remember the vast amount of people that are praying for you, pulling for you and … in general … wishing you nothing but the best.
I look forward to you being back in full swing soon! BTW – the new photo is fabulous.
Feel better soon!
Kim, I’m so glad we got to meet in Chicago. I’m thankful to hear of your progress. Praying for a complete recovery. Blessings…
Derek – I’m glad I was done my “must do” list before I watched that for the first time. I’ve watched it a few times since then too – ok, more than a few times
THANK YOU for those very real hugs, it means a lot. I know the time & effort and I appreciate you mucho!
Candy – I relish in the positive energy – thank you !!!
Carol – Awh… thanks, Carol! It’s good to talk to you – I appreciate your thoughts & prayers sooo much. Hopefully by sharing it can help someone.
Lola – You were one of the people I was so happy to have our first f2f with ! I remember just smiling at each other across the room and I couldn’t stay still – had to go hug ! Glad we got some time to talk at lunch as well…. full recovery is on it’s way
Yay!
It takes a lot to open up like that Kim – we love you and so glad you are recuperating quickly (I nursed an open wound for my mom a few years ago and know how agonizing it can be….be patient!)
My thoughts and Prayers are with you!
Kim, Thanks for stepping up and sharing. That takes alot of courage. Good luck and hope you do recover 100%.
Kim, I am so glad you were able to share this. Of course I knew you had been hospitalized a second time but had no clue what had transpired. I am still praying for you and your complete recovery. I am very grateful they fixed you up before it got worse. You have a very good doctor.
(((hugs)))
Sorry I’m late to the post, what a summer…we can talk soon.
That’s some story and hope you are progressing well. Hope to see you at RE BarCamp soon!