I have been diagnosed with Crohn's Disease for 10+ years. I have accepted the diagnosis as a part of my identity while attempting to not let it become my identity. This has been my biggest and most ongoing struggle.
As I have been going through a flare up recently - since before last Thanksgiving - I have been attempting to find and develop new coping skills. I have never been a shrinking violet. I have been and continue to be a loud voice for this "silent disease". I tell, educate, and support. I talk about cramps and poop at lunch (with the right people). So this blog - this attempt at a louder voice, is my newest coping skill. An outlet for the struggles of my daily life of being a mom, having a career, attempting to finish a degree, all while coping, surviving and sometimes thriving with a chronic illness. Other than an outlet for communicating my frustrations and joys, I hope to provide support and hope for those who are not as comfortable voicing their struggles. I also hope to educate those interested in knowing and understanding what it may be like to live with and manage a chronic illness. I set high expectations for myself - always. Let's see what I can do.
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