In March of 2007, a chance test to determine the cause of my high cholesterol revealed that I had developed hypothyroidism. It took nearly two and a half years and two doctors to finally stabilize my thyroid levels, only for my autoimmune system to begin attacking the soft tissues around my joints. Now under treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis and chronic pain in addition to my hypothyroidism, as well as a number of “satellite” issues, I find myself having to redefine both my own expectations and the expectations of those around me. As a younger woman with “invisible” illnesses, I am learning to live “as well as possible”.
Other Facts About Me:
- 30 Things About My Invisible Illness You May Not Know
- “I’ve Been Better”
- Blog Award! (10 things about me)
- Introductions
- I found it! (Quality of Life pain rating)
- 25 Adjectives (How I View Me)
- I’m Sorry, But I Can’t
- Five Questions
- ABC’s of Me
Please, please, please. Any treatments I comment on here are only what works (or doesn’t work) for me. If you are seeking medical advice, I can’t stress enough how important it is to consult a medical professional.
I have the invisible illness shirt also. It takes courage to accept that fact that I have had to make modifications. But looking back on things, I robbed myself and my friends.
Asking friends if they would not mind sitting when everyone seems to be standing seems small, but it kindly says I am hurting and need to do this.
The silence just preserves the secrets about these horrible diseases. And it does not serve us and makes us less available as a friend/partner.
I have learned to accept and even to try and educate folks about what works. That is what they will remember in years to come if they too have to cope with a disease. And it is our courage in coping that makes us strong, not our silence.
Peace,
Mary
bluestarmoon.wordpress.com
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