I want to celebrate Exactly 10 years ago, a had a ruptured brain aneurysm.

According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, an estimated six million people (one in 50) in the U.S. have an unruptured brain aneurysm.

On December 14th, it ruptured after no previous side effects, indicators, migraines or warnings.  Within minutes, I lost all senses and no idea what was happening.

8 days later, I woke up from a coma.  Thanks to Dr. Kim, I was a survivor. A brilliant surgeon, researcher and dedicated to understanding what actually causes aneurysms and how they can determine which ones will burst.

I had a lot of brain damage and now a permanent titanium clip in my head.  I never gave up and to this day, I continually work to improve my speech which was the area that was damaged behind my left eye.  It is amazing on what the brain can do and shift functions when trauma occurs.

and quickly went from being fed from a tube to demanding a Happy Meal and Top Pot donuts.  10 days later, I left the hospital and enjoyed a glass of champagne on New Years Eve, 2010.

What was I thankful for?  Of course, I was thankful for the medical staff of Harborview hospital, University Of Washington and all my friends and family that were there for me when I needed it.

But the one thing I wanted to call out today: from the moment I woke up in the hospital and had no idea if I would ever walk or talk again, but I was thankful for all the travel and experiences I had been able to experience to date. I was not sure if I would be able to travel again, but I was so happy of how much I can been able to accomplish to date.  And now, 10 years later, I still thankful for everyone and how I can still look forward to traveling again when it is safe and the world opens up.

The goal I set 10 years ago was to visit 100 countries by the time I could not travel any more. I have reached 63 so far, and I think I can still achieve my goal despite all the challenges COVID-19 has been presenting to us.  But I am always planning as you can see in these posts. 🙂

Thank you everyone, I look forward to experiences and opportunities ahead of us!

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