#shawleveryday2019 Day 20
We were in a hurry this afternoon going to our nephew's birthday party, so I didn't even stop to look at the picture to see if it turned out. I then had hockey straight from the party, so I didn't get to look at the picture until just now. By which point, I've showered and gotten into my PJs, so there is no way I'm taking another picture. So, this is just what you get. :)
Robin Lehner (goalie for the New York Islanders) got a shutout today, which is a great achievement, but an even better feeling one knowing that 10 months ago he had to leave the ice in the midst of a panic attack. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PSTD with trauma. He got the help he needed to address his mental health and addiction issues and needless to say, Islanders fans treated him with the love he deserves.
And for those of you who've never had a panic attack, /u/Etheryelle describes it very well:
Pretend you've grabbed a steak knife, stabbed yourself in the breastbone, just above where your rib cage ends and twisted it
As the pain starts to spread with each breath, the light headedness starts in; can't breathe, too much pain and then the anxiety of "am I having a heart attack" sets in
Couple that with ADHD which makes you think, "Oh I'm having a heart attack and my bladder feels like I have to pee which reminds me that I left the water on in the kitchen and now I've got to call the plummer to fix the leaking washing machine..." and the mistakes that come with that
PTSD leading into tells the brain - the pain won't end, it never does
The process becomes an unending rinse/repeat of dark ... glad he got help, very glad the Isles fans stood up and gave him a proper reception; I applaud his willingness to verbalize to the public a very private health matter and even more so, his willingness to get help.
I absolutely encourage you to read his whole story, and if you have troubles with the link (The Athletic is a paid subscription, but some articles they allow you to read for free), just let me know and I can hook you up.
“When I arrived, I said I was good to go… as I always did.
I was not good to go.”
