The story of Lara
I was born with diabetes insipidus renalis in February 1991. Until July of that year, nobody could figure out why I was always screaming. Once I had picked up a hose in the garden to drink from, it became evident that I was thirsty. Once my brother was born 1,5 years later and showed the same symptoms – excessive thirst, for lack of better wording – more research was conducted and we were both diagnosed with the same condition. Thirst tests were undertaken but had to be terminated before doctors had intended: we both wouldn’t have a day of no H20.
From then on, we were monitored yearly and did regular check-ups. Blood clotting has always been an issue as our blood is more diluted (I drink 5-6 litres of water per day). Operations, as a consequence, are a tricky business for us and doctors alike. I know that my diabetes insipidus is known to medics from text-books but the practicalities are complicated when it comes to surgery. That I could loose too much blood is what doctors worry about most. This is why, when I had a jaw operation a decade ago, I was kept at the intensive care unit. Post-surgery, I was not conscious to keep my body hydrated and so I was taken care of by wonderful hospital regulating my water-intake intravenously.
Apart from the above complications, the social aspect – and the general disbelief that I truly do need 6 litres of water a day – has,to my mind, led to my increased fighter-instinct. As my medical record also includes atopic neurodermatitis, Anorexia Nervosa and, most recently, a benign parotid tumour, I wonder whether all these symptoms can be traced back to my inception or whether the later ones are a consequence of those known from early infancy.
To keep it brief, I’ll add that the most soothing approach to healing for me has been to talk and to be listened to. I hope there will be more of this for anyone who canrelate. Thank you for setting up this platform.