Haldimand, Ontario, Canada
Believing in Yourself: A Message to ITP Patients
- What is your name?
Sara - Where are you from?
Haldimand, ON - How are you connected to ITP?
I am an adult with ITP - How/Why did you get involved with PDSA? Why do you choose to stay involved?
I was first diagnosed 20 years ago. - What is your favorite part about volunteering for PDSA and spreading ITP Awareness?
My favorite part about volunteering for PDSA and spreading ITP awareness is helping people/families feel connected to others who share similar experiences. It’s incredibly rewarding to educate and support those affected by ITP, while also fostering a sense of community where people can share, learn, and find comfort in knowing they’re not alone. When Covid 19 shutdowns happened around the globe, I wanted people to feel connected and have more resources to navigate their challenges more effectively. Starting the virtual support group was comforting for me, as well as others for keeping that connection. Sharing experiences and coping strategies helped us to feel less isolated! - How has PDSA impacted your healthy journey?
When I found PDSA, it was several years after my diagnosis, and I felt a sense of relief. I had finally found a place that provided the current and reliable information I needed to assist me with my health. The information PDSA provided helped me to understand what was happening to my body and guided me in a positive direction. PDSA impacted my healthy journey by connecting me with others who were diagnosed with ITP, which helped me to navigate both my emotional and physical health. - What do you do for school/work?
During my 20 years working in the Developmental Services field, as a Developmental Service Worker and Employment Consultant with community supports, literacy and basic skills, and employment services, I pursued my passion for education and returned to school as a student. In 2023 I completed my Bachelor of Education in Adult Education and in 2024 I completed my Master of Education in Adult and Postsecondary Education. I am most happy to say that I am now in my dream role, as the Program Consultant for Academic Upgrading at Fanshawe College, Simcoe/Norfolk Regional Campus. - Share something unique about you and/or one of your favorite hobbies.
An enjoyable interest of mine is to explore and walk different labyrinths, for meditation, reflection and stress management. There's something incredibly peaceful and grounding about the experience. It gives me a chance to clear my mind, reflect, and connect with my thoughts in a meaningful way. The simplicity of the walk, combined with the focus it requires, creates a calming sense of clarity that I really value. I am also a Regional Representative for The Labyrinth Society (TLS) in Ontario, Canada. TLS is a volunteer organization whose mission is to “support all those who create, maintain, and use labyrinths, and to serve the global community by providing education, networking, and opportunities to experience transformation”. I first learned about walking labyrinths during my undergraduate studies and have since begun creating both outdoor and handheld labyrinths, as well as facilitating workshops and events. - What can you be found doing on the weekends?
On the weekends, I like to relax mostly, but I can be found walking with my dog, Maya, and my boyfriend, around town, or at the area trails and provincial parks. I also enjoy gardening, crafting, kayaking, and spending time with friends and family. With my son living in Halifax, having vacation property and family in New Brunswick, and other areas in Ontario, we travel throughout the year to visit them. Yoga is also a passion of mine; I'm a chair yoga instructor and a laughter yoga leader. Being self-aware and tuning into my body’s needs is a key part of my wellness plan. - What is one thing you’d share with a newly diagnosed patient?
Starting the ITP journey can be overwhelming and scary, so be kind to yourself—take time to learn and try to maintain a positive mindset. Find activities and strategies that can help you both physically and emotionally. Connect with others in the ITP community that can provide comfort and understanding. Be open to share your feelings with your family and friends—they can offer support as you navigate this journey together. Remember that you are not alone—there’s strength
“Magic is Believing in Yourself, if you can do that, you can make anything happen!” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe