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Living With A Chronic & Invisible Illness
Sometimes we feel totally alone in a world of healthy people. If we are isolated because we are so ill as
to be house bound it is especially difficult. But even for those who are still working or active in other ways there is a
sense of being set apart. Friends and coworkers may not understand what we are going through and we may be hesitant to tell
them.
For many of us our condition is hidden so we are forced to explain when we aren't able to do something whether
it can be an assignment at work or an outing with friends. We get varying reactions. In the cases of invisible chronic medical
conditions people may think we are being hypochondriac. If your condition is life threatening some people are too uncomfortable
to even talk with you while others are full of advice and quick fixes. We don't need to share our chronic condition with everyone.
It's just not worth the awkward conversation that is usually too brief to help. But we do very much
need supportive understanding from family and dear friends. These people who love us the most may seem like they don't fully
comprehend our situation. Especially at first they are reluctant to believe we won't be well soon. Each time we have a remission
they are sure that we are completely healthy again. It's up to us to explain again and again how we are feeling and what we
are able to do.
Some of us worry that we are complaining too much so we minimize our symptoms. It's best to stay calm and
tell it all as accurately as we can. In other cases those close to us become overly solicitous and we have to help them see
that though we appreciate their caring, too much concern can hurt.
It is a blessing when those who are close to us
understand our disability but that doesn't mean we dwell on our symptoms. Whenever possible we need to just enjoy other
people and take pleasure in doing the things that we are able to do with them. Most of us will find our circle of acquaintances
gradually becomes smaller because we haven't the energy to get out a lot. Even some good friends drift apart. It's hard for
a high-energy person to stay connected with a friend who tires easily. Other friends become dearer than ever.
Our time
and limited energy is precious to us and it helps to plan carefully how we want to use it. This may
mean skipping that social get together Friday night or it may mean going but limiting our time there. Perhaps the occasion
is so special that it's worth risking a set back in order to enjoy the full evening. Supportive family and friends are important
to our well being when we are chronically ill. Finding those nurturing souls that we need is hard work when we are sick
and feeling down.
Everyone is worthy of love...

*Spreading GP Awareness
One Person At A Time*
You My Friend
Will Never Again Walk Alone
©2006 D.S
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