Learning to cope w/all my medical issues
I'm new on here, hoping to have some people to chat with. I have 4pups that keep me company everyday. Hugs +snuggling are the best! I'm dealing w/6 autoimmune diseases +2rare diseases+ am 66yo+most days are very hard for me. I hope to get to find out how others here make it thru the hard days.
I agree wholeheartedly that a pet can make a big difference in our mental and emotional health. My black Bombay cat, Sooty, is my main source of comfort on bad days. I was diagnosed with MG 3 yrs ago next month, at age 79. What a surprise! Then 8 mos ago I was diagnosed with wet Macular Degeneration in both eyes. I am single and my children are grown. I made the decision to move several states away to be near family. A good decision I believe for any of us. These are not conditions that you can navigate alone, especially as you deal with normal aging. I have been forced to leave my very active days behind. I find I must have 8 to 9 hrs rest at night plus a 1+hr. Nap in the afternoon. Pretty hard for a "night owl like myself. I did my research and feel I have 2 outstanding doctors - a neurologist and a retina specialist. Still looking for a primary care doctor w/ past work w/ an MG patient. I try to stay positive, do what reading I can, stay in touch with friends and family and count my blessings, which are many. These illnesses are hard, but you are stronger than you think!
, I'm a cat lady, too 😀 Sooty sounds like a charmer! I have a couple of all black cats and the youngest fits the description and look of the Bombay - he is so sweet!
I'm glad you were able to move closer to your family and that it has been advantageous for all of you. I have DMG, and I know of all the other things age has gifted me, that is probably one of the scariest.
I'm glad that you are doing the things that help you thrive. - Sending (((Hugs))), Donna (Team Member)
I agree wholeheartedly that hugs and snuggles are some of the best ways to cope with bad symptom days!
I personally have narcolepsy, so on my worst days I need a LOT of sleep. Like, a lot. Having someone else to cuddle with makes staying in bed for extended amounts of time sooo much better.
Some other ways that I cope with my bad rare disease symptom days is by sketching in bed or doing other low-energy arts and crafts activities.
Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Tatiana (raredisease.net Team Member)Welcome! It's great to meet you and your 4 pups.
Hugs and snuggles sound wonderful. I admire your strength dealing with so much. How do you find joy on tough days?
Hi
😀
Thanks for adding your loving support for
Would you like to share a bit about how you make it through your tough days?
Smiles and hugs,
Gina (Team Member)
I'm 57 with 1 autoimmune disease, 2 autonomic conditions and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, bilateral peripheral neuropathy... and I'm dyslexic. When things get bad I work on being VERY mindful of my actions and activities. Mindfulness does work.
Brilliantly put Donna! , thank you ❤️- Warmly, Donna (Team Member)
