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.

1. Pacing is REALLY important.
2. Listen to your body – if it’s had enough, don’t push that shit.
3. Heat will be your best friend in the colder months.
4. Wear splints/supports/braces more often.
5. KT tape rips off your crappy EDS paper-thin skin, it’s not worth it.
6. Physio is super duper important.
7. As is posture.
8. You aren’t a burden.
9. If you’re massively exhausted go for nap, don’t feel guilty for it.
10. If you sleep late don’t give yourself a hard time.
11. Voice memos come in handy when your hands aren’t so handy.
12. Asking for help isn’t a weakness.
13. Crying isn’t a weakness.
14. You don’t have to apologise for your health.
15. You can’t control your temperature, make sure you always have a fan, hot water bottles and blankets.
16. A wheelchair is freedom.
17. Blocked dropped-curbs are the devil.
18. Raising awareness, educating and talking about disability is vital.
19. Don’t beat yourself up for cancelling plans/or anything.
20. Your memory is shit; write it down.
21. Ableism is everywhere, don’t waste your time arguing with those who don’t want to listen.
22. You know more about your condition/s than most doctors.
23. Have days off, even if you’ve done nothing for a while, pain is exhausting.
24. It’s okay to say ‘no’.
25. Cherish the good days.
26. Always find out if somewhere is accessible.
27. Brain fog can be really frustrating but you’ll find the funny side of the random things you say.
28. People that make pain into a competition are not your kind of people.
29. Celebrate all the victories, even the small ones. 
30. You’re stronger than you know.