Making the best out of what I have: Meet @drsharon

TERESA: What brought you to Mayo Clinic Connect?

@drsharon: I found Mayo Clinic Connect when I was trying to understand what was happening to me and why I felt so sick. I have been referring to the Mayo Clinic website for years and trusted their advice and somehow happened upon Mayo Clinic Connect. I read the stories and not only learned things, it made me realize there were many others going through similar issues.

TERESA: What motivates you to take part in Mayo Clinic Connect?

@drsharon: I started taking part in the community when I realized I might be able to help other people learn some of the things I have learned, just as I have learned from other people‘s experiences. As a health professional (dentist), I was forced to stop working very suddenly due to asthma caused by external irritants. I really miss being able to help people and make a difference.

TERESA: What about Mayo Clinic Connect makes you feel comfortable to share and to be open with the community?

@drsharon: I think the community is very honest and is just trying to cope with difficult and limiting situations. I share many of their issues.

TERESA: What support groups do you participate in?

@drsharon: On Mayo Clinic Connect, I take part in the discussions in these support groups:

• Aging Well
• Asthma & Allergy
• Osteoporosis & Bone Health

Outside of Mayo Clinic Connect, I follow art groups and take EdX courses.

TERESA: Tell us about a meaningful moment you've experienced on Mayo Clinic Connect. 

@drsharon: I found it quite meaningful when I realized that other people were dealing with the same issues. It is difficult when you have to limit yourself and stay home when you really want to go out. Living with asthma, it’s difficult when some people don’t understand and won’t make changes to help, such as removing scented candles or not wearing perfume. Sharing strategies and helping others to recognize that these items are also unhealthy for everyone is important. Being connected and not alone really helps.

TERESA: What surprised you the most about Mayo Clinic Connect?

@drsharon: I was surprised by the number of people out there dealing with the daily challenges of asthma. I don’t know anyone else personally.

TERESA: What energizes you, or how do you find balance in your life?

@drsharon: My family and friends are really supportive and make sure that their homes are safe for me which helps a lot. I like to cook and have people over. I also have my art and my art teacher is making the studio safe for me (hopefully). I exercise and read and try to live as full a life as possible.

TERESA: Tell us about your favorite pastime or activity.

@drsharon: My favourite pastime (or obsession) is realist art, from portraits to still life. I like challenges.

TERESA: Do you have a favorite quote, life motto or personal mantra?

@drsharon: I guess my favourite life motto is to never give up. Keep fighting to live my best life and make the best out of what I have. It could be a lot worse.

TERESA: What do you appreciate the most in your friends? 

@drsharon: My friends and my family have been my rocks through this journey and I’m so grateful for them.

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