Well, I’m 30 now guys, I officially left my twenties behind yesterday and wheeled right into my dirty thirties. I don’t feel any different and I’m constantly told I don’t look my age, so I have nothing to complain about. I’ll be celebrating my birthday this weekend when my parents come to visit with my 4 year old nephew, and I can’t wait.
Anyway, sticking with the ’30 Things’ theme I’ve gone with this week (30 Things in 30 Years happened on Monday) I thought I’d share what I’ve learnt about my chronic illnesses/conditions/whatever you want to call the collection of shitty things I have wrong with my body. And I like lists so have another one.
- Pacing is REALLY important.
- Listen to your body – if it’s had enough, don’t push that shit.
- Heat will be your best friend in the colder months.
- Wear splints/supports/braces more often.
- KT tape rips off your crappy EDS paper-thin skin, it’s not worth it.
- Physio is super duper important.
- As is posture.
- You aren’t a burden.
- If you’re massively exhausted go for nap, don’t feel guilty for it.
- If you sleep late don’t give yourself a hard time.
- Voice memos come in handy when your hands aren’t so handy.
- Asking for help isn’t a weakness.
- Crying isn’t a weakness.
- You don’t have to apologise for your health.
- You can’t control your temperature, make sure you always have a fan, hot water bottles and blankets.
- A wheelchair is freedom.
- Blocked dropped-curbs are the devil.
- Raising awareness, educating and talking about disability is vital.
- Don’t beat yourself up for cancelling plans/or anything.
- Your memory is shit; write it down.
- Ableism is everywhere, don’t waste your time arguing with those who don’t want to listen.
- You know more about your condition/s than most doctors.
- Have days off, even if you’ve done nothing for a while, pain is exhausting.
- It’s okay to say ‘no’.
- Cherish the good days.
- Always find out if somewhere is accessible.
- Brain fog can be really frustrating but you’ll find the funny side of the random things you say.
- People that make pain into a competition are not your kind of people.
- Celebrate all the victories, even the small ones.
- You’re stronger than you know.
I know for a fact I’ll think of at least another five of these but I’m 30, and I needed 30, so yeah. My chronic conditions have taught me a lot and I’m sure they’ll continue to do so.
What’s the main thing you’ve learnt about yourself/your health?
What a lovely post Sarah. I love how open and honest you are about your illness, it's so inspiring.
Hayley X
Lovely list. I especially liked number 8 and 30 xx
Renee | Life After Lux
Great post Sarah, I love the way that you write about your disability. So often I take their health for granted, so reading things like this teach me to look after my body and be thankful that I don't suffer with constant pain or fatigue x
Pacing is so important! Its taken me a long time to come to terms with that…
Great list!
this THIS THIS!!!!!! I have suffered with chronic illness since I was 12 (I'm now 27) and I am still learning to live with everything I have. But I have to remember to not be so tough on myself – rest, pace and respect are the biggest things for me. I also need to stop comparing myself to others who are more able etc. thank you for this post.
http://www.hayleyloves.uk
That means a lot, thank you x
Thank you x
Thanks, honey x
Same here, constantly learning x
Not a problem x