Hello,

So, going through all the "stuff" with Mark these years really changed me as a person. And I learned some really valuable things such as (1) how to take better care of myself both emotionally and physically, (2) how to use my experience to help others and help myself, and (3) that the internet is an incredible resource if used in a positive fashion like the jpouch site, and (4) I've learned that self-esteem is something I have to work at having, not something I just have.

Myself and 2 other women have recently started a self esteem blog for women and girls called SWEAT IT OUT: A Self-Esteem Blog. I think that one of the biggest things I learned from Mark that UC and surgery and all was really taxing on his self esteem. Your involvement on the blog could benefit many women because the experiences you've had made you all, us all, incredible women and survivors.

You may want to pay the site a visit and contribute now and again, it is a positive resource, academically based and fun!

http://sweatitout.wordpress.com/

Take care,
Megan

How very cool Megan! I'm not totally convinced that Mark's self-estemm could be taxed with you around however. It seems to me you both just sorta keep pulling each other up higher and higher. I wish you and your 'blog women' all the best. And I applaud your dedication to improving all all lives.

kathy

Hi Kathy,

Well, I dunno about higher and higher, but we are a good team! I've got some good news that I'm finishing up my doctoral program and have taken position as an Assistant Professor at a good lil' University, but we will be leaving the west coast and moving south!

How fast things have changed now that Mark is healthier and live seems nearly average any more.

Megan

Welcome to the South Megan! If you're close to Alabama, let me know and maybe we could all have a J-pouch get together

Ohhh, yes! We are super close to Alabama b/c we'll be in Athens, GA.

I think a jpouch get together will be a must! We are super excited about moving, but honestly feeling a bit on our own, all our family, etc..is on the West. Nevertheless, the change is going to be great for us. I know Mark calls Oregon his "sick place" and he would love a change.

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