Corabeth’s summer looked very different than she imagined—filled with surgeries, rest, and unexpected pauses. Yet through it all, she found comfort in the little things and learned that healing is about more than timelines—it’s about being kind to yourself every step of the way.
Continue reading to learn how Corabeth has made the most out of the sumemr despite the challenges.
Embracing the Quiet Moments
Honestly, I’ve just been taking things day by day. After having two abdominal surgeries this summer, most of my time has been spent resting. But because of that, the little things feel extra special—like sitting outside on the patio with a book or just soaking in the fresh air for a bit.
Some days, it’s the tiny rituals that make such meaningful moments. They remind me that even when life slows down, it can still hold beauty.
Facing Unexpected Challenges
Definitely this summer. In July, I had my MALS surgery, and then a week later I needed emergency surgery. I really thought I’d bounce back quickly and get back to my normal routine, but that just hasn’t been possible yet.
It was overwhelming at first. I had to relearn what “enough” looks like—enough rest, enough patience, enough permission to just pause and breathe. There were days when I felt frustrated or anxious about the things I couldn’t do, but slowly I realized that healing is about listening to what your body needs, not racing against a calendar.
Learning to Give Myself Grace
It was really tough to accept at first, but it taught me that it’s okay to slow down and not push myself too hard. Healing isn’t linear, and sometimes the best thing you can do is just listen to your body.
Some days, progress felt invisible, and that was hard. But over time, I began to notice small signs: a deeper breath, a little more energy, a moment of laughter that returned to my day. Those little victories reminded me that slowing down isn’t giving up—it’s caring for myself in the best way I can.
Finding Joy in the Little Things
I used to think summer had to be packed with plans, trips, and being on the go all the time. Now, I see summer as a time to slow down and appreciate smaller moments—even if they look different from what I imagined.
Just because my summer doesn’t look like everyone else’s doesn’t mean it’s wasted. A quiet afternoon in the backyard, a phone call with a friend, or watching the sunlight shift across the patio—these moments hold more meaning than I could have imagined. They remind me that healing can be gentle, personal, and quietly beautiful.
Gentle Reflections
My journey this summer has reminded me to give myself permission to rest, to find joy in small things, and to accept that healing can look gentle and gradual. If you’ve had to slow down because of health, you’re not alone—there’s space to honor your own pace and your own moments of recovery.
Every slow day, every pause, every tiny moment of comfort is still progress. Healing doesn’t have to be loud or fast—it can be quiet, tender, and just enough.
Follow Corabeth on Instagram to learn more about her journey!
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