Hello (again).

Don’t panic… I’m still a Basketmaker’s wife. Back in 2011, I created and wrote a successful blog at thebasketmakerswife.com where I shared my husband Eric's craft of basketry as well as his workshops, students who attended his classes, and stories of our pets as well as some of my freelance work, new art I was working on, happenings around our property as well as a whole bunch of other stuff sprinkled in.

That space became a hub for connection, a platform where I forged friendships and shared the joys of our creative pursuits.

However, life has a way of shifting gears unexpectedly. A couple of years ago, an event struck me with a force nearly taking me from this world. I spent three weeks in the hospital and a year-long recovery. Now, as I stand at the intersection of survival and self-discovery, it's time to embark on a more personal journey—one that delves into the complexities of living my entire life with a rare genetic disease I was born with called Kartagener's Syndrome.

At 57, I reflect on a past where reaching 50 seemed like a distant milestone. A recent encounter with an old journal reminded me of celebrating my 49th birthday, a momentous occasion that, at the time, felt like an achievement I wasn’t going to attain. This reflection stirred a realization: It's time to shine a light on Kartagener's Syndrome. This rare condition lacks even a dedicated Wikipedia page (well, at least as of this writing. I’m working on that as I type).

I am not just a survivor; I am a storyteller. Kartagener's Syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting the cilia in my respiratory system, has defined the contours of my existence. Today, as I navigate the unknowns, my mission is twofold.

Firstly, I aim to share the unfiltered reality of my experiences—the joys, the struggles, and the unpredictable twists that come with living with a condition most have not heard of, even by the majority of medical professionals I come across.

Secondly, I want to bridge the information gap that has made me and others uncertain. This blog is a beacon for those on a similar journey, offering solace, guidance, and community. Whether you're traversing the Kartagener's Syndrome realm or seeking understanding, this space is meant to be a wellspring of shared experiences and valuable insights.

Standing on the brink of a new stage of my disease, Kartagener's has spawned in my body; a profound sense of purpose propels me. I hope to explore and share the uncharted waters ahead—the unknowns, the challenges, and the moments of grace that surface along the way.

Here's to unfolding stories and embracing the journey so far and what’s ahead while hopefully fostering a community that transcends the boundaries of Kartagener's and offering a place of learning and understanding for those who, like me, lacked access to anything substantial online.

Note: thebasketmakerswife.com site is still available online. I'm not sure what I will do with it — Either continue writing posts or maybe merge and archive it here. I’ll keep you posted.