Healing Is Not a Straight Line: Vlasta Racki's Journey Through Reconstruction and Recovery
Since her story was first published (Blooming Through Resilience: A Story of Life with Vasculitis – Vasculitis Foundation), Vlasta says the biggest change hasn’t only been physical—it’s been how she understands healing. Early in her diagnosis, she often felt like she was fighting her own body, pushing through fatigue, symptoms, and uncertainty. Over time, that perspective began to shift. “Healing with vasculitis isn’t always about pushing harder,” she said. “Sometimes it’s about slowing down and learning to work with your body rather than against it.”
Reflecting on her journey brought unexpected emotions. It made her realize how much she had been processing—from the physical effects of vasculitis to the emotional challenges that can come with visible changes caused by the disease.
For many patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), vasculitis can affect the sinuses and nasal structures. As inflammation came under control with treatment, Vlasta noticed structural changes in her nose becoming more visible. “It’s a very unique experience when a disease affects the structure of your face,” she explained. “You start to see yourself differently, and it brings both physical and emotional considerations.”
At the same time, something meaningful was happening through the community she had built online. Messages from people navigating similar symptoms and encouragement from followers reminded her she wasn’t alone. “What began as my personal healing journey has also become a way to support and connect with others facing vasculitis,” she said.
A Decision to Rebuild
By late 2024, the damage vasculitis had caused to Vlasta’s nasal passages and septum had progressed enough so that reconstructive surgery became part of the conversation with her medical team. While medication was helping control inflammation, the remaining structural damage affected both the appearance and function of her nose.
After discussing options with her doctors, Vlasta decided to move forward with reconstructive septoplasty surgery last December. The goal was not only cosmetic—it was also about restoring structural support, improving breathing, and protecting the long-term health of her nasal passages. Going into surgery, she felt both nervous and determined. “Living with vasculitis teaches you resilience, but moments like this can still feel intimidating,” she said. “Surgery always comes with uncertainty.”
A Complex Reconstruction
The surgery proved far more complex than standard septoplasty. Surgeons performed a forehead flap procedure along with bone and ear cartilage grafts to rebuild support in the nose while carefully protecting blood flow to the reconstructed tissue. Vlasta said the compassion of the surgical team made a lasting impression. Despite considering herself a strong person, the morning of surgery felt overwhelming. “When I walked into pre-op, my anxiety got the better of me,” she recalled. “I was shaking and crying.” The medical team slowed the process down, giving her time to gather herself before the procedure began. “That kindness made all the difference.”
Learning to Slow Down
Recovery required patience. Because of the complexity of the procedure, Vlasta stayed overnight in the hospital and faced a recovery period that required strict rest. During the first eight weeks, movement had to be limited to allow the reconstruction and grafts to heal properly. “I couldn’t bend from the waist down and needed to keep my feet elevated,” she explained. Adjusting to a skin graft on her face also required both physical and emotional adaptation. One of the biggest challenges, she said, was learning to slow down. “I’ve always been someone who likes to stay active. Recovery forced me to rest and allow my body the time it needed to heal.”
The Power of a Single Breath
One moment during recovery stands out clearly: the first time she could truly breathe through her nose again. “That first breath made me realize how much my body had been struggling,” she said. She had grown so accustomed to breathing limitations that she hadn’t fully recognized how much her body had been compensating. As recovery progressed, her energy levels improved and her body felt less strained.
Moving Forward with Purpose
The experience has made Vlasta more mindful of how she cares for her health each day. “Living with vasculitis means learning to listen to your body and respect its limits,” she said. Her family and close friends also played an important role during recovery. “Even simple things—checking in, helping with daily tasks, or offering encouragement—made a big difference.”
The experience has also deepened her advocacy work through Vlasta in Bloom. By sharing both the clinical and personal realities of living with vasculitis, she hopes to help others feel less alone and continue raising awareness.
A Message to the Vasculitis Community
Looking back, Vlasta hopes her experience offers encouragement to others navigating vasculitis. “Healing rarely happens in a straight line,” she said. There will be difficult days and setbacks, but there will also be progress and strength that appear in unexpected ways. “Be patient with yourself. Trust your medical team. And remember that you are more than your diagnosis.”