Lately I’ve been feeling like there are a lot of circumstances that we don’t discuss as a society (when I say lately, I mean often). Mental health and addiction seem to be the issues weighing heavily right now given recent notarized suicides and overdoses, however, I don’t think we should hold back or allow any issue to be passé.

I remember being a kid and learning that my aunt’s sister committed suicide; I couldn’t fathom it. She wanted to die? This was an extreme circumstance for someone who was raised in a family who lost a child to Cancer. That child was full of life, wonder, potential, love… all of the things that we hope our children possess. How could this individual want to die, yet on the surface possess every skill to succeed?

I don’t believe most with mental illness enjoy sharing their story, inasmuch as I don’t think those with substance abuse enjoy talking about their issues. However, it didn’t occur to me until a few weeks ago that there are other issues that affect us that most of us like to keep secret.

Given recent Cancer diagnoses and chemo therapy treatment plans, we cannot get pregnant naturally. That took a lot for me to say/type out loud. For the first time in my life, I do not have control over something that I want so badly. Clearly there are feelings that go beyond having a family/children, that scare the shit out of me given the circumstances, however, I also want to be able to have children with my best friend. Do you know how many people do not like discussing this?! 1 in 8 couples struggle with infertility issues, and rarely discuss it. Although this problem for us is more complex and different, it’s all still relevant. I learned a few weeks ago that a very good friend was struggling with this, as well, and we are now able to relate to one another about our challenges. I also learned that another friend is the product of IVF (how amazing is that)?!

This is quite possibly the most challenging thing I’ve written, however, I think it’s super important to just be real about what you’re going through. You never know how many others are in your shoes, or have been in your shoes and can help you out.