See Through Myself: A Memoir

De: Colby Van Wagoner

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

A child survives the miracle of birth. Regrettably, the doctor discovers an abnormality. Born March 7th, 1973 as the 28th recorded birth to survive with a diagnosis of Eagle-Barrett Syndrome. The rare birth defect involves three triads of urological complications. Continued survival meant multiple surgeries, painful examinations, with tubes inserted into the urethra as the corrective procedures healed. The doctor’s frightening revelations, “a child rarely survives to the age of two.” Each birthday celebration an unknown, "The chance for your survival to the age of sixteen is rare," with the doctor's disturbing prognosis. Facing consistent thoughts of dying became all earliest memories of childhood. Over a lifespan with Eagle-Barrett Syndrome resulted in insecurities over perceived body images and no instruction manual to process emotional frustrations, how to interact and socially behave, and face an upsetting divorce. Attempts to navigate life failed, facing physical assault, abuse, and addiction. Achievements of successes through overcoming addiction and relapse, surviving traumatic brain injury, and the loss of a loving mother to dementia. Trials and struggles, persistence, and courage, led to inspirational transitions into adulthood. Coming from rock bottom, addiction, suicidal ideation, and hopelessness, to healing and mindfulness, came an ability to achieve a bachelor's, master's degree, and continue to earning a PH.D. in psychology, my imperfections.