Lou’s Story

When the pandemic arrived, we had to shut our doors. I was completely exhausted, and my body was sending me signals that something was wrong.

This whole shutdown made me realize that I was working so hard all the time, but I completely forgot about what I really needed.

I used to have heavy periods, but with the quarantine and all the related stress that I was going through, they got worse. I started losing blood even when I wasn't on my period. Sometimes just standing up for too long would make me lose consciousness. It was also difficult to have "normal" intercourse with my boyfriend because I considered my genitals a no-go zone because of the heavy bleeding. I went to see my gynecologist to find out what was happening, but didn’t receive a clear answer.

Over the following months, I saw many other doctors until I found one who was able to help. I realized that surgery was the only solution to make my life better, so I decided to go for it.

Knowing what was wrong with my body was really liberating. Since having surgery, I feel so much better! I'm proud of myself because I didn't give up. And I feel lucky to have been supported by my family and friends. I reconnected with my body and my feminine side, and it is really empowering.

This whole shutdown made me realize that I was working so hard all the time, but I completely forgot about what I really needed. It also made me think through my professional path. I chose to go back to school to study interior design, which I was always passionate about. I believe this job will still be intense, but it will allow me to take care of myself more.

The first thing I will do when we’re all back to normal — I will have a nice meal with everyone who supported me throughout this process, give thanks to them, and then I will start my new life.

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