I get funny looks from almost every non-MRKH woman out there. I get snarky comments about how I am not really a woman because I can't carry my own child, I am not a real woman because I don't bleed and have a period. I'm a lucky b*tch because I don't have to deal with tampons or pads every month. I get sad, I-pity-her gazes from women gossiping at family gatherings. These comments and more that are meant to be joking and are said because of misunderstanding are heartbreaking. But ever since I've started sharing my experience online and "came out" confidently as a woman with MRKH and infertility, there has always been someone I can text, e-mail, or write a simple Tweet to that will lend me a shoulder to cry on, someone that gives words of wisdom from their own times of suffering, and someone who just replies to tell me that they understand, that they've been there too. I have been empowered and lifted up by these ladies, who knew nothing about me aside from the fact that I have the same medical syndrome as they do, who lend their eyes and ears and virtual "hugs" of support from the goodness of their hearts. It is an amazing feeling, and I want to thank each and every one of you amazing ladies for being so supportive and being there for me, helping show me the way and creating a more aware and accepting world for those with MRKH.
I was ashamed and frightened when I received my diagnosis 3 years ago. Now, because of your kind words and advice not just to myself, but to many other women diagnosed with MRKH, we are able to come together as a community from around the world, and remember that we are special and strong in many ways that others are not. It is a battle we continue to have. I have my good days, my strong days, and I have days where I want to lie in bed and spend the day surrounded by my hopes and dreams and tears, trying to see into the uncertain future. I am trying to design an MRKH tattoo to put on my wrist or my shoulder, something very visible and prominent. I want to incorporate the warrior/sisterhood aspect, some wording and the symbols from MRKH Norge and Beautiful You MRKH.
From the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every one of you MRKH Sisters for all of the help you have given me thus far, and for many years to come as we bring MRKH out from the shadows and share our feelings with our families, friends, and the world. We truly are 1 in 5000.
Authors Note: I have also met many other non-MRKH women and men dealing with various infertility problems that are hugely supportive and I thank you all whole-heartedly as well.