How to practice gratitude when managing life with PNH

For me, battling aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) hasn’t always been smooth sailing. I know I’m not starting this column on a positive note, but it’s better to be straightforward than to sugarcoat things.

In the past, it’s been hard to process the mental struggles that come with having blood disorders. At times, negative thoughts filled my head, such as believing that where I was would be the reality for the rest of my life.

Additionally, I’d go to doctor appointments where I’d receive only bad news, which contributed to my downward spiral. I was confused about how my life got to that point.

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One day, a light bulb went off, and I knew I had to find a way out of this mental funk. I had to take control of my thoughts.

I believe there are several ways to do this. My approach was to first eliminate the negative thoughts as much as possible. I focused on filling my mind with positive thoughts, especially about myself. When doctors or nurses would give me negative news, I’d think of something positive to counteract it.

The power of gratitude

That’s where gratitude comes in. When you’re grateful, you’re saying that no matter the circumstance, there are still things in life to celebrate. This approach taught me that while one circumstance might blur my view of life, something else out there can make me thankful.

There are many ways to share gratitude. You can write in a notebook the things you’re grateful for every day or every week. You can say aloud one thing you’re grateful for each day. Or you can just think about certain things throughout the day that prompt gratitude.

Your list can be as short or as long as you like; the number of items doesn’t matter. What matters is seeing or vocalizing them and understanding that despite your circumstances, you’re doing the best you can. Sometimes even a single moment of gratitude can change your entire day. It can uplift you and put you in the right frame of mind to continue your fight.

Gratitude has helped me refocus my mind on the things that truly matter, which brings out the beauty of life.

Note: PNH News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of PNH News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.

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