17 Comments
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Cynthia Ham's avatar

So relatable, so eloquently said.

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Fran Caradonna's avatar

Glad you're feeling well!

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Shari Brand  Ray's avatar

Lovely. And so glad you are in the kingdom of the well.

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Lela Gerald's avatar

WOW this is so insightful , accurate and beautifully description of what it is to be sick. Thank you as always Leanne for sharing something so meaningful!

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Cheryl (Poulos) Marty's avatar

Leanne, I loved this piece. I am thrlled to hear you go thorugh the procedure and are on the other side. You struck a nerve with this piece as I have been back and forth so many times in my life and both passports are full. My scoliosis journey started in 6th grade in 1971 with my first of 10 surgeries in 1972. As difficult as all those and other surgeries have been there has always been a silver lining. Whether an experience, a incredible act of random kindness or life long friends I met along the way, there was always something positive among the hard times. Thank you for being so inspiring and sharing in your journeys.

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Leanne Kleinmann's avatar

Thanks so much, Cheryl. How well I remember your scoliosis surgeries when we were children. You were so brave and hopeful. I hope you are well now and enjoying life. xoxo, Leanne

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Judy Nokes's avatar

All truth and insight. I’ll keep this one.

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Leanne Kleinmann's avatar

Thanks, Judy!

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Stella Fosse's avatar

Yes, they certainly do minimize the recovery process. I had an ablation two weeks ago - sandwiched between August breast cancer surgery and radiation therapy (just started). Only after the ablation did they mention that the heart doesn't fully heal for six months.

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Leanne Kleinmann's avatar

Yikes, that's a lot. Hope you are taking good care of yourself.

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Peggy Ingram Veeser's avatar

My husband is in one of those thin places right now, as I sit in the waiting room for yet another procedure. We look towards the kingdom of the well and we hold that light. It is a difficult, lonely journey, knowing the ultimate end faces us every day. We keep moving forward with the eternal hope that we aren’t through yet. Thanks for sharing and may your ablation last forever. ❤️‍🩹

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Leanne Kleinmann's avatar

Peggy, I'm so sorry to hear about your husband. Sending strength and peace for this difficult journey. xoxo

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Iris Waichler's avatar

Hi Leanne: I am sorry to hear about your latest health scare. I hope your recovery goes smoothly. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I have been a huge fan of Suleika Jaouad as well. I saw her in an interview and then read her amazing book. How she has faced her battle with cancer has been extraordinary and inspirational. Her husband, John Baptiste's, support has also been a model to follow for loved ones of those with medical crisis. Every person's battle with a health challenge is a unique and individual journey regardless of the amount of support they have. I think it helps those who are struggling with health crisis to hear how other people face these challenges. It helps them feel less alone. Writing about it and sharing it with others helps other people better understand they are not alone and offers hope. Thanks for your courage in sharing your story. I know it will inspire others. Take care.

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Leanne Kleinmann's avatar

Thanks, as ever, friend. You actually pointed me toward Suleika's book at our last reunion! So grateful. xoxo

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Iris Waichler's avatar

I didn't remember that. So glad you did and it helped when you needed it most! Be well quickly my friend. Keep taking good care of yourself. Looking forward to seeing you in the Spring. Sending love.

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Mickey Babcock's avatar

thank you, leanne. it's good to hear your procedure was successful.

suleika is indeed a gifted writer, as are you. it's important to hear others' stories as we navigate "between two kingdoms". take good care.

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Leanne Kleinmann's avatar

You, too, Mickey! Best to you.

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