Self care is so important for everyone, whether you’re a Spoonie or not. But if you are chronically ill, it’s even more important to put yourself and your needs first. It’s not selfish, it’s being kind to yourself. Taking care of yourself is not a new thing but it is something we need to be…
Category: pain
Brain Fog #2
I wrote a post on brain fog back in January and received an overwhelming response from people who also tackle their foggy brains; they could empathise but also chuckled at the hilarity that comes out of my mouth, (my fellow Spoonies know all too well as they experience it too). In my opinion laughter is…
The Positives of Having a Chronic Illness
Last week I wrote about Why Having a Chronic Illness Sucks, so this week I thought I’d put a more positive spin on things and list (yes, I love a list) a few things that aren’t so bad about living with a chronic condition. Made me strongerI’m in pain every single day, sometimes to the…
Why Having a Chronic Illness Sucks
Today is Rare Disease Day and I thought I’d share some things I hate about having a chronic illness. I’ve suffered with chronic pain for sixteen years, and here’s a few things that are shitty about it. The actual illness and comorbidities are crap, painful, stressful etc. Constantly cancelling/rearranging plans Inability to be spontaneous Never…
Chronic Illness and Brain Fog
For as long as I’ve been living the Spoonie life (16 years), I’ve had these weird little bouts of fogginess. The combination of chronic pain, fatigue and lack of sleep take a huge toll on the brain and sometimes it’s really difficult to say words, let alone form sentences.When it comes to brain fog, I’m…
When The One Thing You Want = The One Thing You Can’t Have
I’ve read many a blog post on resolutions and things people want to change/do better since January rolled in, and as positive and/or inspiring they have been, it’s made me focus on the one thing that I want but can’t have. Yes, I’m here to be a little moody cow and put a dampener on 2016…
Chronic Illness and Feeling Like a Burden
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, about my life, my contribution, the burden my chronic illness has on my loved ones. I know I’m not the only person suffering from a chronic condition that feels this way but since it’s been on my mind, I thought I’d discuss it. Of course my partner…
20 Things Not to Say/Do to Someone in a Wheelchair
As a wheelchair user I’ve experienced quite a varied reaction from the able-bodied public, so I thought I’d share a few things that you shouldn’t say or do to those of us that use wheels.1. ‘I’m only parking here for five minutes.’– No, you’re really not, it’s a disabled bay, you don’t have a permit,…
Three Month Follow-Up: Stanmore Pain Management and Rehabilitation Programme
If you pop by here often, you’ll know that in August I spent three weeks in Stanmore hospital undertaking their incredible pain management programme. Last week I went back for my three month follow-up; my actual follow-up was supposed to be in November but I couldn’t make it as I went home for my nephews…
Assertiveness: Passive, Aggressive and Assertive Communication
Are you confident enough to express your feelings and opinions whilst respecting those of others? Are you able to say ‘no’? Do you think your opinion matters? Can you recognise unhealthy communication styles?There are three main types of communication, Passive, Aggressive and Assertive. My communication style changes depending on the situation but I know I’m…