My name is Tracey Bautovich, and I am a thirty five year old woman married to the love of my life Tony with a beautiful four year old daughter Monique Kate.
I have been chronically ill now for the last 18 months and on disabilility. My husband has been my full time carer for the last 12 months but the over the last few months my health has deteriated significantly and I have had to face the possibility of dying because Dr‘s have done all they can to help me and nothing is working. I have developed a resistance to the steroids which as an asthmatic saves your life when you are having an attack. Unfortunately I am suffering full blown Cushing’s Syndrome now from the steroids which is slowly destroying my body. I have gained 65 kilos from the drugs and osteoporosis so I have broken bones all the time now and am in a wheelchair when I need to go any great distances. A pick line has been put in now for easy access to my veins in case I have an asthma attack now they can get the drugs into me quicker. These are just a few of my health problems as there are to many to go through on here. The doctor’s have started me on a 4 month free trial of a new drug that is a last resort to help me. The 3 injections I have a month are worth $3000 per month and if successful we will have to find that money every month to pay for the injections as they are not subsidised. We are currently only in the first month of the trial though so it has yet to be seen.
After discussions with doctors about 3 months ago regarding my failing health I made the difficult decision to do the practical arrangements for my funeral to spare my husband dealing with it if I die. After doing this however I realised that if I did pass away Monique would grow up not knowing who I was as a person or what my life story was. Suddenly this journal materialised through God’s inspiration and the people’s love and support I have had surrounding me. This book is a dream fulfilled for me and will not only connect me and my daughter on an emotional and spiritual level but she will know my life’s journey through my words and voice. From the simple things like “What is my favourite colour?” through to serious things like “My hopes and dreams for you!” this book will grow up with your child. This is a precious, irreplaceable gift that should be shared with your children whether you as a parent are sick or not.
The 4 month trial is over but they have found the funnding for an extra month of injections for me. We are taking things day by day My health has deteriated severely over the last month but through the help of the local health service and community Tony. Monique and I are holding tight as a family and trying to stay positive which has been made easier with all the people who have sent lovely emails and offers of help and support and that have purchased my book. Their kindness and support has been truly overwhelming
My story is continuing and I look forward to sharing my journey and book with you and invite any of you to come and share your story with me.
I hope “Over the rainbow” brings you as much peace and joy as I had not only writing it but filling it in for my daughter.
Heavenly Memories Books
Now available at the following places
Inner Harmony Shop 48 - Upper Level Macarthur Square - Gordana
Angus and Robertson Argyle Street Camden - Michelle
Browns Bookstore - Bong Bong Street Bowral - Lorraine
Quest For Life Centre - Ellsmore Road Bundanoon - Wendy
ABC Childcare Centre Ambarvale - Lisa
"Over The Rainbow" **Available now**
"Calling All Angels" Beautiful journal from child to parent Out before Christmas
"Journey Of Two Hearts" A beautiful journal for Husband and Wife Available soon
" The Golden Thread" Beautiful memories from Grandparent to Grandchild
