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Five Things I Wish I’d Known Before My Chronic Illness

Neuropathy | Last Active: Apr 27, 2021 | Replies (59)
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@elained

"Coming to terms with limitations" is a biggie! And if pain is part of the picture, I think it's worse.

I call this 'the new me'. Coming to terms with the 'new me' is vital. I have to come to terms with my grief and anger before I can accept 'the new me'.

Acceptance of the 'new me' doesn't mean giving up on the search for help and relief, however.

And I have had to 'come to terms with the new me' more than once, as my neuropathies have progressed and also include more parts of my body

So now I have' the new NEW ME'. A sense of humor is vital.

I recommend the book "How to Be Sick" by Toni Bernhard. Ms. Bernhard was a successful attorney teaching at a law school in CA, when she became mysteriously and permanently disabled. Her book has given me consolation and TOOLS for dealing with all aspects of life with 'the new me'.

Regards, ElaineD@

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Replies to ""Coming to terms with limitations" is a biggie! And if pain is part of the picture,..."
John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Mar 11, 2019

@elained - I can relate to that...I call it my new normal.

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gloriajean | @gloriajean | Mar 18, 2019

Good for you! Part of the grieving process is acceptance & I am really not there. I am still angry - about several issues which are all related to my brain surgery & the lack of info & support from my NS, hand-selected hospital & the health care team/system which is very fragmented!!!! BUT I am a very resilient person & my annger has, in fact, helped me. Sometimes this anger can give me good energ which I usually don't have a lot of. So I my learning to forward that anger energy to something goo & not make me.feel so guilty & messed up.

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jmjlove | @jmjlove | Mar 18, 2019

@gloriajean... I dislike the new lady who has slid into my skin when I wasn't looking.

She brought fibro, I'm like whoa, just go! Then RA, I'm like, well you @#$&#!!!! Then....sjogrens. I'm like oh, bring it on! No way will you destroy MY life. Lol. Then came trgeminal neuralgia, a major head bashing stroke, then tremors, then migraines.

Now, we've made peace. She is the new me,at least what is seen, but she is quite superficial. The old me still lives in my thoughts, my sense of humor, my determination, my faith. I'm still here. I am held captive physically by the usurper, by the body snatcher. But if I treat her well, she cannot invade my spirit.

I want her book. I get tired psyching me out. Someday, I may just get too tired to play this game. Ready how others cope is very useful. Thank you for sharing this!

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