Well, Thanks to Katrina (`Letting Go Of Clutter Finding Peace`), I have decided to take this plunge and start a `blogger` although not really sure about what I am doing...It cant be that hard ?? Can It ?
I figure the main difference is that this can be my main place of writing and thus keep my facebook Page posts, statuses and updates brief and to the point.
I started a facebook page just over a month ago `Fibromyalgia Wellbeing`, and am very amazed at the level and rate of growth and express my heartfelt gratitude for the support..To see people interacting and engaging on a page that I have started is very humbling - and demonstrates the need for support amongst like minded people who are faced with this challenging and frustrating condition that is known as FIBROMYALGIA.
I hope to (self) publish a book very soon - that is based on my experiences and the last `nearly` 5 years. The chapter of my life that is connected and entwined with managing a chronic condition. Its non clinical and hopefully will provide some insights and hope for others....Now to raise the funds for sef publishing package ! I need approx $1,600- for this, this is my next big challenge......
However, I dont see this as a negative issue. It will be a process of speaking to others and making connections within exisiting and new networks that I have and intend to find. Through this process, I will have the opportunity to advocate for all of us with this condition. Because of my need to seek sponsorship/support - I will hopefully get invited to different groups as a `guest speaker`.
We need to raise the profile of FMS, and in Adelaide we have much work to do.
Whilst public speaking is not something I love - I recognise I need to do this.
To raise awareness of FMS,
To increase understanding of FMS - the symptoms, difficulties and challenges,
To try to make people understand that THIS COULD BE THEM,
To promote the need for better practice amongst Health Professionals, and thus
To improve the way in which people like us receive medical care and intervention.
To try to remind people WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER...
I dont expect to make a lot of money (profit) from this but have genuine hope that this (to be) book may help a few people.
I struggled through with poor health which eventually manifested into a BIG multi systemic blow out , to be finally diagnosed in 2008.
I have a background of working with people with disabilities, and their carers. I understand that although its helpful to have an understanding and empathy of walking a mile in someone else`s shoes - what is more important is the understanding that we are all connected and we do have the power to help each other through difficulty. There is no need for people to feel alone and misunderstood.
So, why is it then that the opposite actually happens ?
Because we live in a society that is very individualistic and self absorbed and self focussed. Overall, people generally think that they are immune to suffering, that this is someone else`s problem(s).
So, in my own way - my intention is to `challenge` this way of thinking. Instead of advocating for People with disabilities and Carers, as I have done for 18 years, I will become an advocate for a cause that is closer to my heart ...I have decided that all of this (history) was part of the master plan.
That, through what has happened and the (health) challenges I now face on a personal level - I can draw from all previous knowledge, experience, networks and connections - to push forth and do what I can to assist myself and others.
We are also a minority, and we need to have others that understand our issues. That comes from making a community.
We also need to find a place within society. That comes from acceptance and understanding from this society.
Somewhere, and somehow - these two areas need to meet.
We need to have some people that are prepared to speak and advocate on our behalf - with no other agenda - other than a genuine compassion for the others within their community.
At no time, do I suggest or `push` my own agenda - as we are all experts in our own lives, needs and wants.
I do not intend that I will provide you with all the `answers` or solutions, based on my history, life or expereinces.
What I do hope to do - is help you to find that within yourself - that is what YOU need to find your answers and follow your own pathway that is RIGHT for you.
You have all the answers....you just need support sometimes to find them....to take a step back and focus.
