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Jenisa’s Story (Anemia)

Anemia StoriesMy story begins when I was young. As a baby, I was hospitalized for failure to thrive. I had no clue what was waiting for me later.  Around the age of 13, I was tested for a rare disease called pernicious anemia. The reason that it’s so rare is because it is usually only found in the elderly. Pernicious anemia is a B-12 deficiency; my body is missing the ability to  absorb B-12. I was born without the intrinsic factor. Now although I had tested positive for this test four or more times, no doctor could believe it, and none of them did anything. Therefore, my central nervous system just slowly depleted.

Prior to this, at the age of 11, I was diagnosed with seizures; full-blown grand mal seizures. At the age of 17, I was finally diagnosed with pernicious anemia. Even the doctor was in shock. He didn’t know what to do and had to call other hospitals for advice.

I have to give myself B-12 shots, or else I bleed too heavy from just a single cut. My seizures have gotten so severe that I have flat-lined twice, and I can’t go anywhere alone. I used to work, hold down a job, and live my life. Now I just take one day at a time. That’s all I can do. I have these problems, and yes, to top it all off I have depression. I have learned that life is like a hill. You can just stand there and look at it, or take a walk. I might be tired by the time I get to the top, but in time, I will get there.

Jenisa
Pennsylvania
Submitted 6-22-2012

The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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One comment

  1. Amanda

    Hi,
    I too suffer from this along with Endometriosis, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Migraines, Depression and anxiety. I can completely relate to how you feel and the things you go through on a daily basis. It is so hard to do the things you love and try to work, take care of kids, be a wife, and have a life. I wish you nothing but the best!!!
    Thoughts & Prayers

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