#chronicwarriors

[apologyacceptedcaptainneeda]

DONT take a persons medical device

I shouldn’t have to say that but here we are

One of the managers at work likes to take and hide peoples stuff as a joke. My manager took my pulse ox when I wasn’t looking. When I noticed it was gone I started to panic. A pulse ox is minimum $30 and I’ve had mine for over 7 years and have named it. So yeah I was panicking. I immediately paged my manager to my register and when he arrived I demanded it back. He did give it back.

I informed him that it was stupid and dangerous of him to take a medical device from someone especially like that.

So again

DONT TAKE A PERSONS MEDICAL DEVICE

[elementalevolutions]

When Your Thyroid Levels Are More Dramatic Than a Soap Opera

The image has been crafted to evoke the delicate balance of living with a chronic condition, symbolizing a nurturing and compassionate relationship with oneself. It captures the essence of hope and growth, highlighting the journey of self-care.

#HashimotoProblems

[dashinghealth]

Living with Chronic Disease: A Journey Through Hope and Perseverance by Idongesit Okpombor MD

Living with chronic disease can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. It can change every aspect of your life and create deep feelings of fear, discomfort, and uncertainty.

However, it's important to understand that living with chronic disease does not have to be a death sentence. For those who choose to navigate through the difficulties, it can be a journey of hope and perseverance.

This blog post will explore what it means to live with a chronic disease and the steps you can take to maintain a positive outlook on life. We'll cover everything from the physiological effects of chronic disease to the emotional toll it can take on your mental health.

Additionally, we'll look at different coping mechanisms that patients living with chronic diseases use to maintain hope and focus on the present.

We'll touch on the importance of taking care of your physical well-being, seeking support from loved ones, finding purpose in life, and setting realistic goals.

Accepting a New Reality

One of the key steps to living with chronic disease is accepting a new reality. This can be a difficult task, as it may involve giving up activities and routines that were once enjoyed, as well as adjusting to new limitations and uncertainties.

However, acceptance is an essential part of the journey through hope and perseverance. It allows you to redirect your energy towards finding new ways to adapt and manage your condition, rather than clinging to unrealistic expectations or continuously mourning what was lost.

While coming to terms with a chronic illness may be a challenging process, it is important to remember that it is a journey, not a destination. By accepting a new reality and approaching each day with a positive mindset, you can take steps towards finding joy and fulfilment in your life, regardless of your health challenges.

Openly Communicating With Your Care Team

Living with a chronic illness can be challenging, but openly communicating with your care team is one of the most important things you can do to manage your condition.

Your care team may include doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who work together to support your treatment and care.

By communicating openly, you can help your care team understand your needs and goals, and work together to develop a personalised care plan that suits your unique situation. This may include discussing your symptoms, medications, lifestyle choices, and any concerns you may have about your condition.

By working together and staying informed, you can optimise your care and better manage your chronic disease over time.

Adapting to New Demands on Your Time

Living with a chronic disease can significantly alter your life and priorities, leading to new demands on your time. Adapting to these changes can be a challenging process, but it is essential for managing the disease effectively.

One approach that can help is to create a daily routine that incorporates the necessary treatments and self-management practises.

This might involve scheduling medication times, keeping track of daily symptoms, and arranging for transportation to medical appointments.

Additionally, it is crucial to communicate openly with family, friends, and colleagues about the changes in your life and your need for support. With dedication and flexibility, it is possible to find a new balance and adapt to the demands of living with a chronic disease.

Making Healthy Lifestyle Changes

Making healthy lifestyle changes can be intimidating for those suffering from chronic diseases, but it is a necessary step on the path to better health.

Making small changes to your everyday routine can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing.

It's important to start with manageable changes, such as increasing physical activity by taking a 10-minute walk each day or swapping out processed snacks for fresh fruits and vegetables.

Gradually increasing the duration and intensity of physical activity and incorporating healthy food habits can lead to long-term success.

It's also important to prioritise adequate sleep and stress management techniques, as both can have a significant impact on overall health.

Remember, making healthy lifestyle changes is a process that requires patience, perseverance, and a supportive network that includes healthcare providers, friends, and family.

Developing Coping Strategies

Developing coping strategies is an essential aspect of living with chronic disease.

Coping strategies refer to the techniques and approaches that people use to manage the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges that arise from living with chronic disease.

Coping strategies can vary from person to person and even from day to day. It is important to identify strategies that work best for each individual, and this may involve experimentation and trial and error.

Some common coping strategies include stress reduction techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, creating a strong support system with family and friends, seeking professional counselling, and engaging in regular physical activity.

Developing coping strategies can help individuals maintain a positive outlook, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being while living with chronic disease.

Connecting with Others Living with Chronic Disease

Connecting with others who are also living with chronic disease can provide powerful emotional and practical support. Sharing similar experiences and feelings with others can make you feel less alone and help normalise the challenges of living with chronic illness.

There are many ways to get connected, including joining in-person support groups, participating in online forums and chat rooms, and attending educational events or workshops.

These connections can also provide a wealth of valuable information, resources, and strategies for managing symptoms and coping with the emotional impact of chronic disease.

Remember, you don't need to go through this journey alone. Building a support network with other individuals who understand what you are going through can be a vital aspect of living with chronic disease.

Staying Informed About Your Condition

Staying informed about your condition is an integral part of managing chronic disease.

Healthcare providers are the primary source of information, but there are also several other reliable sources of information available.

Make sure to regularly consult with your healthcare team and ask questions. They can provide you with the latest updates and developments in treatment options and advise you of lifestyle changes that can have an impact on your condition.

Additionally, there are many reputable resources, such as online articles, support groups, and community forums, that can provide valuable information and support.

Remember, it is crucial to prioritise staying informed about your condition and to constantly evaluate and adjust your strategies for managing it. This will empower you to take an active role in your healthcare and make informed decisions to improve your quality of life.

Seeking Support from Family and Friends

Living with a chronic disease can be challenging and emotionally draining, but seeking support from loved ones can be invaluable.

Family and friends can provide a source of emotional support, motivation, and encouragement. It is important to have a supportive network of people who understand the struggles they face.

This can come in the form of physical support, such as assistance with daily tasks or transportation to medical appointments, as well as emotional support, such as being a listening ear or providing words of encouragement.

It is crucial to communicate openly and honestly with loved ones about the challenges of living with a chronic disease and to reach out to them for help when needed. Seeking support from family and friends can not only ease the burden of living with a chronic disease, but can also lead to a greater sense of connection, hope, and perseverance.

Finding Ways to Celebrate Your Wins

Living with a chronic disease can feel like an uphill battle, but it is important to remember that even small victories deserve to be celebrated.

Whether you have achieved a goal related to managing your symptoms, completed a task that may have felt overwhelming before, or simply had a good day despite the challenges that you face, finding ways to celebrate your wins can help you stay motivated and keep your spirits up.

It is important to acknowledge the hard work and effort that you put in every day to manage your chronic condition, as this can help build resilience and promote a positive outlook.

Some ways to celebrate your wins could be by treating yourself to a favourite activity, spending time with loved ones, or acknowledging your successes in a journal or gratitude list.

Don't forget to also surround yourself with supportive individuals that will acknowledge your wins and cheer you on as you go through this journey of hope and perseverance.

Finding Your Own Path to Hope and Perseverance

Finding your own path to hope and perseverance is an essential part of living with a chronic disease. No matter what condition you have, it's important to remember that you are not alone in your journey.

Many people with chronic illnesses have found that connecting with others who share their struggles has been incredibly helpful in maintaining hope and perseverance. You may find online support groups, local support groups, or friends and loved ones to talk to about your experiences.

Additionally, mindfulness practises, such as meditation and yoga, have been shown to decrease stress levels and improve overall wellbeing. It's important to experiment with different coping strategies until you find what works best for you.

Remember to take things one day at a time, and celebrate each small victory along the way. With perseverance and a positive attitude, you can continue to thrive in spite of your chronic illness.

In conclusion, living with a chronic disease is a difficult journey that challenges a person's physical and emotional well-being. However, the journey can also be an opportunity for growth, hope, and perseverance.

Through self-care, seeking support from loved ones and healthcare professionals, and living a purposeful life, you can break free from a victim mentality and find strength and resilience to thrive.

As difficult as it may be, every day of living with a chronic disease is an opportunity to appreciate life and all it has to offer.

NEXT READ: Understanding the Complexities of Chronic Diseases

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[iamokaynowdeb]

Pandemonium

A Red-lorded Amazon

A pandemonium of parrots…. all seeing us with their

Intent gaze…

What do they see & perceive of us?

Do we attribute our thoughts unto them?

A hand fed baby will not know itself to be a bird,

It thinks differently about its self.

If you are intent in act and deed you will see.

It isn’t so much about a transference of our thoughts to them

In the pandemonium I believe we are the…

[getrealmommy]

Why I Prefer Texting

Why I Prefer Texting

I saw a blog recently that talked about why chronic warriors hate to talk on the telephone. I enjoyed the read and it got me thinking. Does anyone like talking on the phone anymore? I really am curious about this.

When my kids were small I hated talking on the phone because as soon as I did that was when the kids would act up, start screaming, crying, or fighting. When texting became the thing to…

[kidneystories2013]

Patient Services, Inc. @PSI4Patients Happy #ChronicDiseaseDay! We're so excited for this day of support for all the #ChronicWarriors Remember, 2 livestreams on @MyGoodDays Facebook (https://bit.ly/3efLgqZ): 1. Chronic Disease Day Main Event at 12pm ET 2. Advocacy Training Seminar at 2pm ET See you there! (at Hammond, Indiana) https://www.instagram.com/p/CCd0ROyDGlv/?igshid=uwpn0040d8a7

[jparkko6]

When in doubt, just ad a little pizzaz to your life 😂😭 #anxiety #anxietyproblems #chronicallyawesome #chronicinsomnia #chronicillness #chronicallyfabulous #chronicpain #chronicpainawareness #chronicnausea #chronicnervepain #chronicillnessawareness #chronicinflammation #mentalbreakdown #chronicpainsucks #chronicwarriors #fibrowarrior #fibrofog #fibroflare #fibrofighter #spoonie #spoonies #spooniestrong #spooniesupport #spooniesunite #ibd #diverticulitis #diverticulosis #abdominalpain #nauseasucks #youdontlooksick https://www.instagram.com/p/B5xWj_-pb3l/?igshid=17z24nlz03yji

[riseawarrior]

Extremely happy to introduce my upcoming motivational shop. 2020 hit hard for many people including myself. My biggest challenge was chronic illness. I was inspired by my spoonie struggles to work on my upcoming shop. God gave me another reason to fight my illness and I hope to encourage others in the process. I am working on bringing y'all cute motivational stickers and jewelry. But I also want to support my community via this blog and other means. I invite y'all to follow me on instagram to learn more of the Rise a Warrior mission and get a glance of upcoming products.

Here is my instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/riseawarrior

This blog's ask inbox is available for anyone who needs words of encouragement. Also, I will be sending free uplifting surprise gifts. Every month I will randomly select 2 people to send these gifts to. I will be posting soon how you can enter for a chance to get a free uplifting gift. You can either follow me on tumblr or in instagram to get notified.

[nspinelliwrites]

Chronic Illness: a Conversation with Loved Ones

*I wrote this almost a year ago. Since then I have had an additional diagnosis on top of this one of a similar vain. Actually most are of a similar vain. “It’s all in my head” hah. Edited for updated information*

I have Meniere’s Disease. I suffer, I live and sometimes I just rest with Meniere’s Disease. But it’s there always and forever. For those that don’t know, and I know it’s most. Meniere’s Disease is a chronic, invisible, disease that has no cure. It brings vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, ear pain, and pressure into my life. Amongst many other symptoms. Most are hard to explain when I sometimes have trouble understanding them myself. I generally try to yell “This is Sparta!” at my day at least once. It helps with the constant battle that goes on without my control or say.

What You Need to Know: The Specifics

The Mayo clinic describes my life so much more simply than it feels. “Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can lead to dizzy spells (vertigo) and hearing loss. In most cases, Meniere’s disease affects only one ear.” But here’s the truth, this disease like many chronic illnesses affects each and every recipient differently.

Most days I can’t walk. A lot of the days I can’t walk on my own. I consider those pretty good days. My most visible symptom is vertigo. Not, just got off the roller coaster going to throw up my lunch dizzy. More like my life is never getting off the Tea Cups and they are going backward. But the world is what is actually spinning and it’s around me–and I can’t get it to stop.

Other parts of my symptoms include hearing loss and ear pain. Brain fog. You know this feeling when a word is just on the tip of your tongue, but you can’t quite grasp it. I can feel that way, all day, for anything and everything. If you ever had to explain the word “stairs”, while looking at them. You feel me. Or ear fullness/pressure. Going up in an airplane that wonderful pain in your ears that come with the pop. Just no pop, most of the time, and on the ground whenever it wants. Did I mention the tinnitus? The roaring in my ears? And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

One day I might need hearing aids. One day I might not have any hearing in that ear at all. One day I need a cane and one day I don’t. One day I could need a walker.

It’s a Vestibular Disorder of the inner ear. There is fluid in my affected ear. For me, it’s my left ear for now. At the moment, it is only lateral. Meaning it only affects one ear. However, it can become, bi-lateral and affect both ears.

It’s a long term disease. Long term. Rest of my life long term. Guys, I am never getting better. I am never going to “feel better.” Whatever that even means anymore. I am never going to get over it. This isn’t the flu. I won’t just wake up one day and be better. Better is just not something that is me. And that is, okay. I am forever sick.

You should hug your local chronic illness sufferer. Even though at the end of the day, we do not want your pity. Maybe you should ask about the hug thing too, you know? Germs and all. I may not have the flu, but I can still catch it. We just want acceptance and understanding. You don’t have to get a PhD. on the topic, just believe us.

Just believe that when we say it’s a bad day. That even though I am walking with my cane today. I am fine, it just helps sometimes. That I understand my limitations. That I am not giving up on the things I wanted in life. I am choosing to live a life where I spend most days okay. At a functioning normal. Not stuck in bed because you thought it would be a good idea for me to go to that concert or take on another activity. I learned the hard way when I didn’t want to change. When I liked the life I already had. When I thought I was giving it all up, which wasn’t the case.

Just Listen the first time

We shouldn’t have to have a discussion more than once. Please understand, that I understand that you don’t see when my S.O. has to carry me up the stairs just so I can pee. Or that he has to bathe me from time to time. I know you don’t see me after the weekend we spent at New York Comic-Con. When I am stuck in bed. In the dark, under the covers, probably annoyed at the dog who wants to torture the cat or vice versa and now won’t go upstairs without me. And I am unable to walk or even turn over.

I don’t mean to have to cancel plans. To be unavailable when you need me. I would love to go on vacation with everyone when they wanted. To spend the weekend in some place with flashing lights and music. Where we drink until we forget where our room is. But I have to think about the next day and the day after. About being able to walk. You don’t and I understand that. So why is it so hard for you to understand that for me?

Why can’t we all understand that my life has changed differently than it has changed for you? That I dreamed of traveling the world and being Lara Croft, but I get to cry about how that is never going to happen. Not you. Could you imagine me having an attack in a foreign country? I can hah.

That only I know how I feel right now, that my illness can’t handle the stress of school or work or a three-hour party at Dave n Busters for my niece’s eighth birthday. Sometimes I did them anyway. Knowing I wouldn’t feel well after or during because it was for someone and I paid the price.

Dave n Busters I’m looking at you.

At the end of the day, I didn’t make these decisions lightly. It kept me up for nights on end. It still does when you ask for help with your homework and still make comments about how I should be a teacher when I can barely work anymore.

Did I think this would be my life at 28? No. I thought I would have a family already, my dream job and life. But things change and that is okay. I accept them, you have to too.

I Don’t Need Your Pity

I know I am young. I know the average age for my illness is much older. And trust me I know I am too young to be this sick. Yet here we are. I don’t want you to look at me with that sad look as if my life is over. It’s not, it’s just different and it is allowed to be. It’s doesn’t have to be everything I planned. Or everything you think it should be. It can be new and exciting. I can enjoy the little things and big things, as I see fit and am able.

Here’s My Pitch.

Do you have questions? Well, good ask them. Don’t be afraid too. I would love to answer them. I will tell you whatever it is you want to know. That I know.

Do you know exactly what my disease is? Most doctors don’t either, isn’t that fun?

Have I told you I can’t do the thing you want me to do? Don’t ask me again. You will notice, by the third or fourth time I repeat myself it won’t be as kind. Which I don’t mean to do. It’s just–guys, I’m tired. Always. No matter how much sleep I get, or what I do. I could relax in bed all day. I will be exhausted.

And all I want is to make this easier for both of us. I struggle with canceling plans or leaving early. Being unable to help when I used to be able too. Not going to places I want to go. It’s always a fight and it’s not exactly one I am winning here. So let’s work together.

[apologyacceptedcaptainneeda]

I brushed my teeth! And flossed! And used mouthwash!

Go me!

It took so many spoons

[potsandbooks]

Looking for POTSIE/SPOONIE/CHRONIC WARRIOR friends!!

Send me a message! Let’s chat, tell each other stuff and be comrades in chronic illness!

[dashinghealth]

Understanding the Complexities of Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases are often referred to as silent killers, mainly because they develop slowly over time and can remain undetected until they reach advanced stages. These conditions are characterized by long-lasting effects on the body, and they can result in significant limitations in daily life activities.

The burden of chronic diseases is enormous, affecting millions of people worldwide, and the prevalence is continually increasing. While the causes of these diseases are multifactorial, they are often linked to lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking.

Understanding the complexities of chronic diseases is critical to managing and preventing their onset. Chronic diseases are long-term, persistent, and often incurable, requiring a comprehensive approach to treatment that focuses on minimizing the impact and improving quality of life.

This approach entails understanding the biological, genetic, environmental, and social factors that contribute to chronic diseases' development and progression.

In this blog post, we delve into the complexities of chronic diseases. READ MORE

[iamokaynowdeb]

It’s #TheEvent Eve y’all! I am excited in a peaceful, joyful, and anticipatory way. I am already feeling the success of tomorrow because of all of the shares, likes, #TheEvent #PaintTheTownGreen4GP thank you @digestivehealthmatters we are showing how speaking our #ChronicallyWell @aprilgqg truth can succeed when we #Advocate over #adversities our #ChronicCommunities #HelpingOthers @monitakespics #GastroparesisAwarenessMonth w/ #BeBold4GP @melissaadamsvanhouten @bundytr5 #Green4GP turning #SocialMedia #Green4GP saying to our #ChronicWarriors #WeSeeYou #WeHearYou #WeFeelYou #WeAreYou while each of us are unique and most definitely add an integral part to our #Advocacy journey in a way no one can but YOU! only you has your DNA, fingerprints, voice, the celebration of each of you creates an immense joy each time I open Instagram or Twitter !!!! This is how #TheEvent has already begun its magic! It’s #Greenness its online advocacy voice (for me) is like a hallelujah chorus of church bells, bubbles, wind chimes, cellos, violins, the most magnificent magical choir has begun to 🎶 our advocacy for better treatments research and quality of life and care towards #Cures ... I know I may have revealed a lil too much of my mind, but I will take the chance that there are a few more #Spoonie #Warriors #GPReporters of like mind it’s a celebration of y’all #TheEvent sounding off letting other chronic warriors they are not alone! While continuing our 365/24/7 advocacy! #BeaconOfHope@gimotility #DontQuitBeforeYourMiracle @mcbanecarolyn #ButYouDontLookSick @christinemiserandino @umdf @mitoaction @wegohealth @medivizorteam @hesaonlineorg @walton_raven @angel_dunlop @nkotbangelwingz @andersoncooper @ohbrita @kark4news @jessicafaye.watters @y._e._s._s._i._e @gastroparesisgoofball @theellenshow @us_pain_foundation @gpwarrior @legalizeitlala @therealcamille @bravoandy @mo_2013_ @gigihadid @steventrotter @crystalephillips @laureencunningham @daisymariebonilla @katebolduan

[comorbidchaos-blog]

I need a foldable cane that doesn’t dismantle itself when you swing it.

That way when an ablest jerk decides to follow me around and call me a faker (again) I can use it like a weapon

[kidneystories2013]

Chronic Disease Coalition @ChronicRights Taking care of yourself means also taking care of your #mentalhealth and many, many #chronicwarriors tend to understand the importance of self-care when treating their disease. http://ow.ly/fooN50zXEeG (at Hammond, Indiana) https://www.instagram.com/p/CA_GJkbDRbF/?igshid=jtdsvdmjjola

[jparkko6]

Me today little sleep, pain levels climbing and I'm nauseous as f*cm! Add bloating to the mix and ya I'm just your fun filled lollipop tripple dipped in psycho...tread carefully 😂😷 #chronicallyfabulous #chronicallyawesome #spooniesunite #spoonie #fibromyalgiasucks #fibrowarrior #pain #chronicpainawareness #chronicpain #chronicnausea #chronicfatigue #chronicinsomnia #fabulouslyfierce #witch #chronicwarriors https://www.instagram.com/p/B5XnccWleo7/?igshid=1im5dui6rjp6r