I underwent emergency Thrombolysis to remove the blood clot in my subclavian vein, moments before it went into my lung. One year ago today that I was trying to understand this nasty thing that I had never heard of called 'thoracic outlet syndrome', that they told me I had. And thus began my three week journey of being in and out of the hospital and ICU, undergoing more radiology then I care to mention (its amazing I dont glow in the dark!), angioplasys, having my blood drawn every two hours in the hospital out of only one arm (this was the absolute worst and what broke my spirit a number of times!), being introduced to medication I had never heard of and being connected to more IV's and machines that I knew possible, and finally, for the icing on the cake, a the rib resection surgery!

I have learned a lot about myself in this last year; some good - I really am a tough chick after all, and some not so good - I am as patient as a 3 year old with ADD... I have learned more about TOS and blood clots then I would have ever thought possible. I have learned that the health insurance industry is about as about corrupt as the Taliban, yet I met so many great people - nurses, doctors, surgeons, physical therapists, trainers, all who have done everything within their power to make me well and see that I heal. I have reinforcment that I have great friends and family who stick by me and who are my biggest cheerleaders. All of this, and a souvenir scar on my chest!

And I wanted to let all of you know that I am so grateful for your support, knowledge and inspiration over the last year. You all are fighters and I appreciate that.