A story that is
TRUELY
ROMANTIC
Support
Clark Kent
I have a husband who, although he can be a man when it comes to my emotions, has not once stood down from the position as my strongest advocate. In the days when I was feeling like half a woman and quietly wondering whether it changed his view of me, I should have saved my mental energy. He has put up with nearly 2 years of my disappointment once a month, and even helped me redirect my emotions when I have channelled this disappointment in the wrong direction.
He has slowly become more comfortable with talking about it all, even though he is old school and I know this doesn’t come naturally. And instead of letting us put it off for even 1 more month, when it came to the ridiculously expensive medical bills he handed over our credit card and said “we’ll just have to eat out of the garden and tighten our belts for a few months”.
This same support holds for my dear family. With my parents and in laws giving their precious time and being the listening ears and voice of reason at the other end of the phone when we needed to hear that its all going to work out.
This love and support keeps us going.
It’s not all roses.
Not everyone is supportive. I have had friends uncomfortable with me talking about our struggle, thinking it was a cry for attention or us looking for pity. This couldn't be further from the truth - but there is a difference between pity and understanding. God forbid anyone else I know go through this and feel as isolated and powerless as I have/do.
I work in an industry/environment that is chauvinistic and cut throat. The jokes are crude and the support for personal ‘problems’ simply doesn’t exist. With most of my colleagues being single, childless or males (some of which believe a woman’s place is in front of the stove), it is a silent struggle that I will not let them judge. (To the one person who may be supportive, sorry to tarnish you with this brush, but I’m sure you understand, you know who you are.)
My gorgeous bras
True friends come in many different forms. Friendship is often hidden, but provides the support you need when the road gets bumpy - just like a good bra.
And to many of these people I have no words to explain my gratitude.
To the friend who offered to help me with the injections, the friend who battles a ridiculous time zones to call me knowing radio silence is my sign of slipping into depression, to the friends who offer babysitting services during all the testing, and too all of those lovely friends who listen and have a genuine interest. There is a special place in my heart for you all, even if I forget to ever mention how much it means. To the friend who offered me her uterus, although I hope this is unnecessary, the thought it more generous and sweet than I have words to explain.
