Living with a chronic illness

When you have a chronic illness, especially an 'invisible' illness,  it can be difficult for the people in your life to understand your limitations.

Things you once did without a thought become difficult decisions: Do I make the bed? Can I run that errand? If I make dinner, can I clean it up?

You know that your energy is finite, there is only so much you have to work with each day. And everyday there are tough choices to be made.

Pushing past your limits? Well, it's an option...but by doing so, you risk making your illness worse.

If you are having trouble communicating with your friends and family what it is like living with illness, living with limitations, I highly recommend that you read and share Spoon Theory by Christine Miserandino.

In this story, Christine finds a poignant way to explain to her friend what it is like living with Lupus. Reading it brought me to tears. I think it should be required reading for the friends and family of anyone with chronic pain/chronic illness.

Spring...a time of renewal

Spring has arrived in London, Ontario; the longer days of sunshine, the blossoms on the trees, the spring flowers peeking out from the ground – all reminders of renewal and regeneration. 

How can we renew and regenerate our own personal lives and relationships?

Tips

1. Spend more time outdoors: for most people, the brighter days lead to increased energy. Spending time outdoors can improve your mood and fight fatigue.

2. Try something new with family and friends: plant a tree, take a visit to the dog-park, fly a kite. Breaking out of your usual routine can bring new life to your relationships.

3. Go for a walk with your partner: a walk is an opportunity to reconnect, free of the distractions of home & work.

Spring reminds us of nature’s cycle of renewal – out with the old, in with the new. Take this time to reflect on how you can benefit from a fresh perspective.