Invisible Diseases!

I am taking a break from packing.  I am thinking on how to become organized at packing & moving.  I am not winning so I thought I would do another kind of post today.  Something dear to me.

The below is posted a lot on Facebook.  I know I have seen it a lot.  A lot of people add a few more diseases.  I know I did.  I added Chronic Back Pain, Endometriosis, & IC.   

"It's hard to explain to those who have no clue, it's a daily struggle feeling sick on the inside while u look fine on the outside. Please put this as your status for at least 1 hour if you or someone you know has an invisible illness: Anxiety, PTSD, Bi-polar, BPD, Lupus, Crohns, UC, MS, Diabetes, Arthritis, Epilepsy, Chronic Back Pain, Endometriosis, IC, Depression, Auto-Immune, Aspergers, ADHD & Autism. Many illnesses are not visible." 

The Spoon Theory is an excellent way to explain what it is like to live in pain.  It is written by Christine Miserandino.  It is beautifully written.  If you are in chronic pain, the Spoon Theory is an excellent way to explain how it is to live every day in pain.  We have to pick & choose what we do in order to get through our days.  

Just because you can not see something does not mean it is not there.  We may look fine on the outside, but inside is a totally different picture.  Before you speak, think of what you want to say.  Try to be understanding.  Put your feet into their shoes.  What would it be like to have a chronic illness?  Most people have no idea what it would be like because they are lucky enough to be completely healthy.

I think we need to be our own advocates.  Plus as a mother to a child with a chronic disease, I need to be her advocate.  I think it is very important to educate people on our illnesses so their ignorance might not happen to the next person.  

Don't tease anyone with a chronic disease especially a child.  Ashleigh has been getting teased here on our own street by 2 girls.  I hope I stopped it, but I know I won't be able to protect her.  Ashleigh can not help the way she walks.  She is a happy little girl, who always has a smile.  She will always make a friend with someone.  She does not care if they are in a wheel chair or has issues with walking or walks normal.  Ashleigh is just beginning to know what it is like to be different.  We don't need anyone teasing her.  Teasing causing other issues with Ashleigh.

Anyone can have a disability.  It does not matter what age you are.  I am disabled.  I get looks when I use my handicap parking sign.  I have problems walking far distances.  My legs don't like it.  Invisible diseases are everywhere!

Thanks for reading!  Now off to clean the boys room & pack some up.  46 days until we move!!!! =)

Mel