Stories from the Chronic Life

2005 was a year of challenges for me–both physically and mentally. I thought some of these cycles would never end! Now that I look back I realize that some good came from them.
One period stands out in my mind. In the first months of the year, I was faced with the fact that my dog [...]

Since arthritis has taken over my feet, I’ve become so clumsy. Walking across the room can be a challenge. Watch out for that dog toy! Quick turn left! I have found myself face first on the floor more times in the last couple of years than a drunk.
I can be incredibly [...]

For four glorious weeks, I don’t have to dust because all the surfaces are decorated. Once we get the tree, I only have to vacuum half the living room. You can’t even see into the cobwebbed corners, so no need to get out the dust mop. Yep! Holiday decorating does an arthritic body good.

But, once [...]

Where I live the winters are fairly mild. It never snows. We get alot of rain and fog though. The temperatures usually are in the high 40s/low 50s during the day and can drop to the low 30s at night. Yet, my arthritis still affected by these less dramatic weather changes.
As the weather gets rainier, [...]

How many times has your doctor told you not to push it? How about a helpful friend or relative who keeps an eagle eye on you? Though they mean well, these constant reminders of your infirmary can make you afraid to move. Underdoing it can be as damaging as overdoing it.
Everyone with chronic illness or [...]

I really enjoy the holidays. I like the decorations, the tree, the ornaments, and the presents. I especially like the fact that while all the decorations are out, I don’t have to clean as hard. That’s a bonus for my chronic pain racked body!
For four glorious weeks, I don’t have to dust because all the [...]

How many times has your doctor told you not to push it? How about a helpful friend or relative who keeps an eagle eye on you? Though they mean well, these constant reminders of your infirmary can make you afraid to move. Underdoing it can be as damaging as overdoing it.
Everyone with chronic illness or [...]

My seven-year-old nephew used to mock my walking style. He would either grab my crutch or improvise his “old lady” limping routine and say “Please, help the old broken foot lady”. I used to laugh so hard! He really did a good impersonation, though I was hardly an old lady!When I first started experiencing problems [...]

When my left food refused to fit into a regular shoe, my doctor gave me a surgical shoe. You’ve seen them. They are blue with a open toe. The hope was that it would relieve the pain and swelling in my foot.At first I was self conscious about that shoe. You couldn’t miss it. It [...]

I’ve just spent two full days with my 13 year old nephew. I am utterly and completely exhausted! Don’t get me wrong. I really enjoy spending time with him, but I sure end up a zombie after he’s gone.One of the most challenging aspects of chronic illness is dealing with fatigue. I know that my [...]