“A woman is like a tea bag: You never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.”
-Eleanor Roosevelt
Something new I've planned to do is spotlight guest writers with chronic illnesses . I feel like this gives ya'll a other views on chronic illnesses, as well as a glimpse into more illnesses . This week I'm super excited to share a story with you from a good friend of mine, Susan. She has been a strong hold in my life since being diagnosed. We bonded over the same passion of our careers in emergency medicine. To say she has helped me through the hard times is an understatement. She has helped me come to grips with this thing called chronic illness. Susan is a Paramedic who ended up on the wrong end of patient care. She has spent the past four years trying to find a name for the monster that has taken over her life.
“Welcome to life with a chronic illness! There are a few things you should know. Doctors do not know everything, trust your gut if something doesn't sound right ask. You will need to see more than 1 doctor to get answers. Remember it is your life not theirs, so if you can’t live with it keep looking for answers. There will be tears. Yes, you will end up bawling your eyes out in front of a doctor because you just can't even begin to hold it together anymore. This is ok, you are human too. You will also cry when you get answers or find a treatment plan that works. Your doctor might cry too, hint keep that doctor, they are the ones who help fight your battle. You will meet many people on this journey and sadly you will lose many too. You need an army! Find those that will hold you up when you no longer can stand on your own, but also find those who will sit on the floor and hold you when you cry. Find those that keep in contact even when you cancel for the 100th time. Pajamas! They are your best friend. Leggings are best friends too, a.k.a socially acceptable pajamas. You can have more than one type of headache at a time or any type of pain for that matter. Heating pads might just save your sleep. This goes for ice packs too. Brain fog is real, invest in post it notes.You may never get your old life back but that in no means states your new life can't be just as good if not better. Keep your head up you are not sick because you are a bad person, anyone can get sick. Keep in mind everyone is fighting a battle not all can be seen. If you can make someone's day better do it."
"I am a Paramedic who ended up on the wrong end of patient care. I have spent the past four years trying to find a name for the monster that has taken over my life."
Follow her journey at @monkeystrongems on Instagram 🖤
