Portal Vein Thrombosis

In 2006, most of my serious health issues started. I developed a blood clot in the portal vein. It was a very scary time in my life. A lot of the time I spent in the hospital, I still do not remember. I know it was very hard on my husband and the kids. My doctor kept telling me how lucky I was to be alive and that he didn’t think I would make it.

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a blood clot of the portal vein, also known as the hepatic portal vein. A PVT blocks the blood flow from the intestines to the liver. Although it is treatable, PVT can be life threatening.

There were many times when I didn’t feel so lucky. I had to go to the hospital for weekly and then monthly visits, waiting hours to get blood tests done, and hours for my appointments. That continued for years, but I got accustomed to it and accepted it. I was just happy to be alive!

About a month after I left the hospital, we took a trip to New Brunswick, with my Mom and sister. It recharged me and motivated me to continue my life, even if I would have to spend many hours in doctors’ offices.

In September of 2006, my sister Dorothy was working for a dental surgeon and he was looking for someone to replace his receptionist 3 days a week.  Dorothy mentioned it to me, and I applied for the job. He was a very kind and caring man. We hit it off right from the start, and I started working for him in October 2006.