Looking For Someone Like Me....

hi

by Tracey_E - 2017-12-23 09:35:46

We don't have a lot younger members who stick around. They tend to ask a question then move on, but I hope someone replies soon! There is an active facebook page called young pacemaker patients (or something similar) with teens. Does your local hospital have a Mended Little Hearts? Also check out http://campodayin.org/  I know a young lady (paced since birth like you) who attended when she was younger, was a counselor when she got older, and made lifelong friends there. Btw, she just graduated from nursing school and is planning her wedding. 

I can give you a glimpse into the future :o)  I have the same thing as you, so was in your shoes once upon a time. I'm probably older than your mom now. No one looks at me and sees a heart condition.  I didn't have any heart-related complications having babies, my kids are both in college now.  I own a business, am a long time Girl Scout leader, am very active  hiking, skiing, kayaking, lifting weights, running. The pacemaker has never once held me back from doing something I want to do. 

For me, high school was the hardest time so it only gets better. It's hard, feeling different than everyone else. I'll tell you a secret, tho, everyone feels that way. Everyone has something that makes them feel like the odd man out, something about themselves they wish they could change. Also, everyone eventually faces health problems. I think it makes us stronger and more empathetic, because we learn to handle things most kids never think about. We are fighters. Keep telling yourself that. I hope you find a paced friend your age. I can hook you up with my friend, if you like. If you have questions I can answer about living a life with a pacemaker, I'm always around. 

Hi Julie

by BonJon42 - 2018-01-06 12:02:21

Hi Julie!!!!!

I am, unfortunately, MUCH much older than you but I just wanted to reply to your post and say hello.

I am 72 years old and just got my pacemaker on November 13, 2017. Sometimes, I'm a little scared about having the pacemaker inside me, so it is really nice to hear from someone as young and strong as you are that has had your device for so long.

I hope that you can find some people your age to talk to because being a teenager can be very difficult sometimes! I know...we "old" people tend to forget what it was like!!!

Love you and good luck!