Living with chronic illness affects so many of us. We all have stories to tell. How it first sunk in that something wasn’t right. That the discomfort we were experiencing wasn’t going away. Maybe the fatigue or pain would lift for a few days, bringing hope that maybe it was all in our mind, only to return as bad or even worse. When we consulted with medical professionals, it was hard to describe the subjective feelings that weren’t showing up in the usual blood tests, imaging or other bio-markers physicians lean on to aid in diagnosis. The looks of incredulity from the doctor only augmented the already nagging self-doubt.
And that’s just the beginning of life with chronic illness.
My own story, I’ve learned, isn’t unique. It just feels that way because it’s my story. Kind of like childbirth, anyone who’s lived through the ordeal remembers every detail. While there are many fundamental commonalities, there are the individual twists and turns in the story. We share our stories because of those commonalities that express our shared humanity. We find inspiration and support from each other because we are present to tell the tale. We are survivors.
The “Seven Rules for Living Well With Chronic Illness” came from what I see as the commonalities that challenge us to live as warriors and not as martyrs. How we process, break down, fight for, and live the seven rules is as unique to us as our illness journeys.
The 7 Rules:
Rule 1 You’re Not. Crazy. Trust Yourself
Rule 2 Define Your Circle Of Support Carefully
Rule 3 Have The Right Doctors
Rule 4 Protect Your Health As You Would A Small Child
Rule 5 Confront Mental Obstacles
Rule 6 Create A New Measuring Stick
Rule 7 Have Dreams And Strive For Them
It’s my hope that when we gather to talk on Thursday, October 9 at 7:00PM, we will have the opportunity to share our experiences using these Rules as our guide. I can’t wait to hear your story.
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A Little About Our Founder Dr Aletta
