Hi everyone, my name is Faith. I’m a mom, wife, and grandma, and I’m glad to have found this community.

I’ve been living with fibromyalgia symptoms since I was a teenager, but lately the pain has become especially difficult to manage. I’m having intense pain in the middle of my chest that goes across my breastbone. My legs are in constant pain, my feet are killing me, and even holding a pen to write can hurt. I keep pushing through as best I can, but it is becoming very difficult. Gabapentin hasn’t been helping, so my doctor and I are trying different approaches in hopes of finding something that provides relief.

Life feels especially overwhelming right now. I recently lost one of my parents to cancer, and I’m also caring for a parent who is losing their eyesight. At the same time, I’m helping other family members affected by cancer and trying to keep a business running. It’s a lot of responsibility and emotional pressure while I’m already coping with so much physical pain and grief.

I’m hoping to connect with people who understand what living with fibromyalgia is like, learn what has helped others cope, and feel a little less alone. Thank you for letting me share.