Awareness event, TTG library 1st Dec 2012

CITY OF TEA TREE GULLY LIBRARY _- SPEECH DELIVERED BY DEE about book `Fibromyalgia Well-Being`.

TEA TREE GULLY LIBRARY – 1^ST DECEMBER 2012.

Thank you to all of you for coming along today. I acknowledge that many of you here with may have travelled and/or overcome many challenges to come and be with us today!

A few of you have already read the book, and some of you are personally known to me, but I`m sure most of you are still a little perplexed about what is called `Fibromyalgia Syndrome`.

I`d just like to take a quick detour to introduce FMS, as it is the basis and purpose of my book.

FMS may be described as a multi dimensional pain disorder or chronic multi system Illness – with many others symptoms including (but not limited to) – sleep disturbance, non-restorative sleep, fatigue, musculoskeletal stiffness and cognitive dysfunction. It`s estimated to affect approx. 2% of the population – in SA its estimated to affect 65,000 people – of all ages, both men and women. Symptoms often fluctuate but generally people experience widespread pain, sleep problems and extreme exhaustion.

`FMS therefore involves the whole body and potentially throws all kinds of things out of balance. It can take someone who is tireless, hardworking, educated and ambitious and rob them of their ability to work, clean the house, exercise, think clearly and ever feel awake or healthy. The symptoms that result from widespread dysfunction in the body and brain are hard to understand, difficult to treat, and thus far – impossible to cure.`

By the time diagnosis is received – a multi layered, multi dimensional approach is needed, to address the many complexities involved.

When I was at my most challenging time, almost 6 years ago – I really wanted to connect with a book like `Fibromyalgia Well-Being`. I wrote the book in part to fill a void. Once I talk a little about my background – then you may better understand my other reasons for wanting to write this book.

I have a background spanning over 20 years in voluntary work, mostly in community services. This has been in a range or settings and roles and also Professionally for the last 17 years. I have a passion and interest in `community` and participation in community.

I believe we all have strengths and we all have the capacity to contribute to community – no matter what our skills, financial status, abilities or backgrounds. We all have something to give, no matter how small we may think it is. Together, we can make a difference.

Through my work over the years, with people with disabilities and Carers I have also had another passion strengthened. This is SELF advocacy – and empowerment. Whilst I don’t attest that I can change the world – we each have the capacity to add to the ripple effect. I can contribute to the world, help people become motivated, encourage them to find their own strengths, support them to remain optimistic, and therefore – change their own world. So, this project has a few aims but one of them is to encourage people to become empowered – thus, make changes within their world – and impact on their reality with chronic illness.

The other main motivator was about raising awareness in regards to this condition – to work for better outcomes for people with FMS. To help improve awareness and understanding, to help inform interested others about the condition – with the hope that they may better understand how life is for us. To create discussion and some improved validation for all of us. I hope that the book will do its bit to raise the profile within our community (and society) of invisible illness and conditions.

Personally, I have tried to focus on what is out there and available and improving solutions. Striving for progress, rather than focussing on shortcomings.

Through my own life, whenever faced with hard times or challenges – the people I most look up to and admire are those who have endured and faced challenge, overcome adversity, battled illness or hardship, crisis etc BUT these role models have the most amazing life stories. In the process of becoming a person that has come out the other side – they have shown strength, grace and amazing character. They haven’t found any miracle cures BUT just shared how they had done their best to get through, whilst somehow learning so much about themselves and becoming a light that shines on others; providing encouragement and hope. Their positive attitude has added to their ability to cope and their resilience. What I discovered through my experiences with FMS, is that no one had really shared their story. Lacking in my searches – were other real life experiences being shared of this incredible challenge called FMS.

In April 2011, I gave up a job I loved and whilst I knew it was necessary – I felt `lost` for a while – but also did much evaluating regarding my own health and management. It was a time of acceptance.

A very wise person, whom is here today, met with me approx. 5 months later and said something quite important to me. This person suggested that when the time was right, the next part of my journey would begin. The next thing would present to me. And, it did.  However, at that time I had no idea what this next `thing` would be. I had never really seriously thought about writing my own book, but around 4 weeks after this discussion, almost overnight I decided to start writing. I started writing something that I felt would have been of benefit to me in the years prior. Something that was lacking and I hoped that what I was embarking on – would have the capacity to make a difference. That by sharing my personal experiences and honest reality, with this condition and the myriad of symptoms that go with it - may help others within their own reality.

I have now managed to get the book out there, after a very reaffirming and successful launch in July 2012 – and I now intend to use it as a tool. To use it as fuel to support the vehicles that are currently becoming strengthened and moving forward, and continue to work for our collective benefit.

I consider myself to be like a `bridge`. That I can use this book as a tool and do my bit and build on and support the other things that are happening. To ensure I work positively towards supporting others whilst also raising community awareness and understanding of FMS. The book is my way to get people talking about the condition and their symptoms, to better participate in their own health care. To also provide the individuals with validation, some comfort, some reassurance. To facilitate connectedness amongst people who may be struggling within their own situation.

The feedback I have received thus far, about the book- certainly supports these aims. It indicates strongly that people `connect` to my experiences and frustrations. They feel validated and encouraged and they resonate and relate to `my story`, which is actually the story of many.

I am NOT advocating that people follow my treatment(s) or journey. But rather to make some changes that enable them to feel more encouraged. To reaffirm that things can be done to manage and stabilise their condition and symptoms. Although, `managing` does still mean having bad days – but it`s about accepting these bad days without becoming defeated. Bad days with FMS will occur, because by nature of the condition – there are influences and impacts that we cannot always control (like weather, environment, chemical exposure etc) – but perhaps we can `learn` how to minimise the effects.

We can start to empower ourselves and get this information out into the community. I intend to become a stronger `change champion` in various ways and better support the vehicles working hard for improved outcomes. My condition, my own management, wellbeing and my current life may create restrictions and limits, BUT there are things I can do and intend to do. To help better support the newly diagnosed and the people who continue to struggle, or feel disempowered. To try to make this path a little easier for them, with less bumps and twists and turns.

QUOTE – `Edward Everett Hale`.

I am only one, but I am one

I cannot do everything, but I can do something

And I will not let what I cannot do

Interfere with what I can do.

Empowerment is more likely to produce more positive outcomes and thus more positive emotions and this increases confidence within our situations – this is so much better for our health than disempowerment!

I have been pleasantly surprised by the people in my own networks that have started talking about fibromyalgia – me included.

In the past, when struggling myself – I couldn’t talk about something that wasn`t understood or validated – and it also didn’t help that I didn’t understand or validate it myself. I felt disempowered and often helpless. I often thought I was going crazy and I often gave up in despair. I don’t even suggest that what I tried, what I had success with, what worked for me – will work for you.

But, I DO suggest, that if you learn about your symptoms and your condition – you will become more informed to make choices for your own long term management.

And also by addressing the physical – psychological – spiritual parts of YOU, you will become more stabilised and you will begin to feel more in control.

I hope that you will come to understand that although there is no cure – there are many ways to address the symptoms and cope in the best way you can. There is no quick fix and there is no magic pill BUT hopefully you may feel connected to others and thus more positive and continue to take the baby steps forward in your own acceptance.

Consider the diabetic – who may need medication and intervention. BUT for effective long term management they may also need to make lifestyle changes to best support their long term management and to avoid further deterioration. To stabilise their condition – they may also need to make other changes – diet, exercise and other adaptations.

A person with a chronic back injury (maybe as result of an accident or illness) and living in chronic pain may need pain intervention BUT to also live and function at optimal level, they may also need other interventions. They may need adaptation of their environment, changes to the way activities are carried out and adjustment of what activities can be managed without further detriment. They need to maintain a positive focus on ABILITY.

FMS is no different – however, we currently face many complexities! We need to also consider lifestyle adaptations, exercise techniques and other influences. We need to learn about ourselves and how the condition impacts on us. BUT we don’t need to struggle on alone!

We are all different – in the way we experience the condition and symptoms, the care we receive, the support we have, how we cope and the choices we make to manage our health care and needs. We are different in the backgrounds we have, the life history we have travelled, the pre cursors to the illness, the triggers, the onset, the diagnosis process etc etc. BUT, the common thread we have to each other is our capacity to understand and show empathy and compassion. Universally, we feel the same things, although it may be in different sequence or order – but, generally the same feelings – and we connect to each other’s` stories.

So, I hope that the actions behind this book will continue to make an impact within society, within my own local community and within your networks. I hope it will continue to support the other vehicles and work towards progress and change – for better outcomes for all of us. I hope that discussion about FMS will continue and the people living with the symptoms continue to be heard. I hope that people who are the family, friends, carers and support networks may be guided by reading and sharing my experiences. So, they may better understand our reality and therefore better understand their role in relation to supporting us.

BUT, I hope this book also assists the people that travel this lonely, confusing and often challenging road. The road that often includes many ups and downs, unexpected twists and turns, many mixed feelings including grief, sadness, despair, disappointment, helplessness, confusion and frustration – just to name a few.

This is a road that is shared by those of us living with not just fibromyalgia syndrome but also other chronic conditions – often invisible, isolated, tired and overwhelmed.

I hope you gain something from connecting with my story and shared experiences, and feel a little more empowered by travelling with me!! I hope you understand that self management does NOT mean struggling on alone, lonely, and isolated. Self management does mean finding the right networks and interventions that can support you to gain control in your own situation.

I hope that you are able to start putting the pieces of your own situation together, through being in control of your healthcare `team`.

Along the way and as part of this project – I created a facebook community which now has nearly 2,500 people connected. Then recently came the newer sister page called `Supporting Fibromyalgia Champions`. The latter community was created approx. 4 weeks ago and the catalyst for this was a drastic and sad personal story of another person living with complex health issues. In a nutshell, the new page enables people living with FMS and closely related and often overlapping conditions – ME and CFS to promote their ventures and business pursuits or creative outlets to others. Often people have needed to re create some financial opportunities, or become financially desperate as result of chronic illness and need to find new ways to be able to afford the bare necessities. Supporting Fibromyalgia Champions provides a link to their own facebook page and whilst it doesn’t recommend products, it supports them in their pursuits. On the other side of the spectrum, it provides others who may be housebound; bed bound and/or isolated by their own condition some easy shopping options on line – whereby they also support others living with similar health and financial issues and limitations. Inclusion on this platform is by recommendation, invitation or application ONLY. I also have a `expression of interest` page here today and if you have a facebook page (not webpage) that meets this criteria, you can list your name, relevant info and page details and I will follow up in coming weeks.

What may come next is a local support group – here in Wynn Vale – as it seems there is definitely enough interest….registration of interest is here today, as is some other information that may be useful for some of you.. I am also learning each day – I don’t profess to know everything and continue to be challenged in this regard. BUT I have another passion which is sharing what I do know.

I hope that there is some value in providing you with some information that I feel could have been useful to me, but at my darkest days – did not have access to. Hopefully some of this will assist your situation in some way.

I Thank YOU for coming along today and hope that you feel a spark of hope from this project I have undertaken – for this cause!!

I also have some other Thank YOUs –

TTG library – esp Caroline Bates who has been the person holding main responsibility for todays event and I thank her for her support to me, over the last few months.

Suzanne, Brooke, Cassie and my own daughter Chenoa – for helping me out and doing some of the little jobs that add up to big bits…and for helping me with the money soon.

I also Thank those of you who have helped promote today and done any distribution of flyers etc in weeks past. I thank those who have been involved with this project from the start and have continued to support me in many ways..to have people believe in me and what I am striving to achieve is something I appreciate and treasure.

Most importantly, I thank you all for coming along today and I feel quite sure our paths will cross again and this connection will be long term.

Please stay and chat with others, have some morning tea or feel free to purchase a book, which I will be more than happy to sign for you. THANK YOU, and take care…

BOOK LAUNCH `FIbromyalgia Well-Being`

Well, the book has hit publication and is now available!!!....I have not been entering on this blog as things have been hectic, and I also have the job of maintaining my own health and wellbeing...so, today for those who are interested, I am transcribing my speech from the book launch.

The book launch for FIBROMYALGIA WELL-BEING was on Saturday 14th July, at Walkerville Library. There were just over 80 people in attendance - including 3 elected members from City of Tea Tree Gully and Mr Tony Zappia (Federal Member for Makin electorate).

Here is my speech, an intro to the book and enough about me to describe my underpinning motivation for writing and self-publishing the book............................................

Today we are here to allow me to introduce my book entitled `Fibromyalgia Wellbeing`, which adopts a physical – psychological – spiritual view, based on my own experiences with FMS. After struggling for a few years with poor health, and then an `official diagnosis`, I realised I had nothing to lose and possibly much to gain by adopting a wider view. One that embraced pharmalogical and Non pharmalogical interventions and I share these experiences in this book.

The book was undertaken as it will hopefully fill a void. When I was at my most challenging times 5 years ago, I really would have loved to have been able to connect with something like this, as well as many of the resources that are now becoming more widely available to us.

This time last year I had no idea I was going to embark on this project as I have never undertaken anything like this before. The most challenging part has certainly been the last 5 months, in getting through and completing the production stages. The writing was the easy part!

I have a broad background and passion in community services which began around 18 years ago. This has been demonstrated through both my Professional work life and also through the wide range of volunteering and participation and interest in `community`. I believe that WE ALL have strengths, and therefore the capacity to contribute to community and assist each other, and participate in `community` - no matter what our skills, background, abilities or financial status – we all have something to give, no matter how small – it is never wasted and ALWAYS well received. Together, we can make a difference.

I have had the absolute privilege of working alongside carers in our community – and have been inspired by these wonderful people, and learned so much from this amazing people, who truly are pillars of society in the very important role they undertake. Through working with Carers I have also developed and built on another passion – often resulting from necessity – which is advocacy.

I`ve never thought that I could change the world, but have always believed I can add to the ripple effect. I can`t change the world BUT I can contribute to the world, and I may be able to assist others to change their world.  To try to motivate and encourage others to find their own strength. To support them in remaining optimistic and to therefore to change their own world or indeed to make positive changes with their reality with chronic illness. This is my view of the word `empowerment` and this is one of my motivating forces.  So, as part of that I now stand here today with much pride!

So, first off, a little detour from the book…. – what is fibromyalgia syndrome?

In brief, it may be described as a chronic multi system disorder, which actually affects approx. 2% of the population – in SA its estimated to be 65,000 people. It occurs in all age groups (even children), and effects both men and women. The symptoms are chronic but fluctuate. It is NOT a psychologically based condition, although our state if mind can be challenged and negative reactions in this regard – may result.

I have extracted these words from my book `FMS therefore involves the whole body and potentially throws all kinds of things out of balance. FMS can take someone who is hardworking, educated, ambitious and tireless AND rob them of their ability to work, clean the house, exercise, think clearly and ever feel awake OR healthy ! Its not burn out, depression, laziness, whingeing, or psychologically driven. It IS the result of widespread dysfunction in the body and the brain that is hard to understand, difficult to treat and thus far impossible to `cure`…`

People with FMS generally experience widespread pain, disturbed sleep, and extreme and exhaustion.

The long list of symptoms may include –

Pain (muscular aching, throbbing, shooting, stabbing, intense burning), stiffness, fatigue (which can be incapacitating), memory and concentration issues, sleep disorders, IBS, exercise difficulties, chronic headaches, jaw pain, chest pain, PMS, shortness of breath, burning mouth or tongue, skin sensitivities and/or rashes, dry eyes and mouth, dizziness, muscle weakness and balance issues, sensitivities to smell, loud noises, bright lights, certain foods, inability to tolerate some medications. The symptoms may be aggravated by changes in weather, cold or drafty environments, stress, depression, anxiety and over exertion.

Often, by the time diagnosis is received – there is no magic pill or solution – as the physical system is in need of a multi layered, multi dimensional approach in order to address the many complexities involved.

The primary goals are usually pain management and relief and sleep improvement and mostly a combination of approaches, interventions and lifestyle changes are needed.

A big part of why I decided to write and publish this book, was also about awareness raising in regards to this condition. To inform interested others (family, friends, carers etc) about the condition with the hope that they may then better understand how it is for us. I also hope that this project and the process will raise the profile within society of invisible illnesses and conditions.

Invisible conditions may include –

Lyme disease, Gulf war illness, Multiple chemical sensitivity, POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia), alzheimers, addisons disease, autism, Asperger syndrome,  lupus, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, renal failure, chronic pain, mental illnesses, psychiatric disabilities, coeliac disease, crohns disease, food allergies, metabolic syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis.

And we can also add to this list FMS and also Chronic fatigue Syndrome and these conditions are my primary reference and topic today. They are termed invisible conditions, as one would guess – they cannot be seen. But, also the latter two can fluctuate and can be hard to recognise and understand. Invisible illnesses and conditions may often include some degree of disability and limitation, and thus may disrupt normal daily activities, and may also result in reduced functional capacity and impaired quality of life.

Thus, at times the person enduring the chronic illness or condition, may also be invisible.

That is -  not present.

Often they are only seen when they are well enough to be seen and actively engage and participate in `normal` and everyday activities.

Often, the people dealing with the symptoms and challenges spend a lot of time housebound, or even bed bound – and feeling as if they have been forgotten, and invisible. They may be well enough to be present and seen for days, even weeks and sometimes a couple of months.

However, often to enable this functional status, they need to work very hard at their health management and indeed this level of functional status may vary between each person and is dependent upon many variables.

For some – being functional may mean being able to get up in the morning, have a shower and have breakfast. Then, after resting they may be able to do a couple of chores and then rest, and if they are lucky – even some shopping. For a few, life is severely limited.

For all, the work put into their health may look to an outsider like they are taking care of them selves. But, all this effort and care – may be needed just to remain minimally functional and able to do the bare minimum in regards to self care and daily living.

Being functional does NOT mean they are `well` or better. And, most importantly for most it doesn’t mean engaging in a reasonable quality of life. Some people are able to work in a part time capacity, and may have some quality of life. A few may work full time and have therefore, very little quality of life.

Some are not able to work, and their quality of life impact is that they become affected from NOT being able to work AND also due to the severe limitations and restrictions caused by their symptoms. They may do all the `right things` and still their bodies may not be able to cope.

We may struggle to continue to remain functional, let alone `participate` in life.

Sometimes, we focus on and work hard to achieve good self care and do many things to remain functional, but unfortunately life circumstance means that we cannot control every situation and environment. We may become invisible and non functional as a result of different factors , that are beyond our control – such as environmental sensitivities (lights, noises), chemicals, perfumes, odours, weather, rain, cold, food, and of course any other life stresses that nobody has control over.

To give you some idea of how these ongoing and unrelenting symptoms impact on our lives - In my case, my functional capacity or ability has been greatly reduced – and I adopt many interventions and strategies, but at best I only achieve around one sixth of what I was capable of around 12 years ago. What I could do in one day, now takes me three days, and it involves many elements of self care and health management as well – to get through that.

It is widely documented regarding the importance of quality of life on our overall wellbeing. Thus, if we cannot maintain a satisfactory (let alone minimal) quality of life THEN our psychological and spiritual wellbeing may be affected. This is universally true of all people. If we are unable to participate in community life, engage in recreational and leisure activities which support our quality of life – then our wellbeing requires more attention or we are at risk of further psychological stress and detriment.

Today is not the environment or place to talk about the issues and challenges we face with this condition from a clinical or medical perspective. I will leave these matters to those more qualified.

However, I personally believe that we have some key people in the right places here in SA. These people are striving to improve the medical care and intervention for people with FMS. We must all continue to support and respect them, and trust that they are doing their job in the best way they can – with the resources they currently have.

There may be shortcomings in some areas and whilst we continue to hope that this will improve – we also need to strive collectively to raise awareness and acceptance of FMS within our local communities as well as society. This book will hopefully become a tool that will assist this process.

Instead of becoming frustrated with the short comings and focussing on what we `don’t have` - we need to continue to remain empowered, in our own individual situation and in regards to our responsibility towards our own health and care. Focus on what we DO have and what we CAN do.

Whilst a cure or a solution would be great, I think this gives up our own power and places this power `out there` for others and can, therefore make us feel disempowered.

Disempowerment and negative emotion walk together – hand in hand.

However, on the other hand, empowerment is more likely to produce a positive outcome, and thus more positive emotions.

Recently I saw a quote that implied that our psychological and spiritual states are tightly interwoven and connected and thus can`t be easily separated. This may be true. Maybe our physical health is IMPROVED by gaining knowledge, leading to empowerment and strength and of course adequate and satisfactory medical care and intervention is a major part of that.

But, if we aim to improve and work also with our tightly connected psychological and spiritual health we most certainly will attain better long term management or indeed a more positive state of wellbeing.

Physical restoration will greatly assist us IF and WHEN appropriately and adequately addressed. However, along with this restoration if we also embrace learning about ourselves and personal growth, then it may be possible to incorporate a more positive state of wellbeing.

The book `Fibromyalgia Well-Being` is based on my experiences and learning – it is non-clinical and hopefully easy to connect with. It is also easily read and respects the issues that people with FMS may have in regards to reading, concentrating, absorbing information and only being able to do these things for relatively short periods of time.

I make no suggestion that I have all the answers to FMS. I am still learning.

I still have `better days`, and still have bad days and sometimes these bad days lead into very bad weeks. Often this is complicated more by episodes of acute illness. Earlier this year I encountered 3 sinus infections in 3 months. For the first 11 weeks of the year, I was quite unwell for approx. 6 weeks of that. I have suffered for many years with recurrent sinus infections – as some of us do with FMS. I am also currently experiencing more recent issues and challenges related to my thyroid. These added extras (on top of FMS) become exhausting, unbearable and quite depressing…not to mention unproductive, frustrating and therefore stressful.

I work hard (like we all do) to continue to connect the dots and restore my physical health and this is further complicated when plagued by unpredictable bouts of acute illness. Is it part of my healing process – an outcome from addressing a particular area or symptom ??

Or is it backwards steps ?? Or, is it just something I have to live with ??

Most certainly we are often tricked as well – when we experience good days.

Onwards we push. For me this `onwards` now includes – fresh veggie juicing, nutritional focus, and doing the best I can BECAUSE I KNOW I am coping better and I`m in a `better place` than I was 3 – 4 years ago. All the work, effort, researching, knowledge etc etc etc amounts to nothing on these bad days!!! When they strike, all I can do is try to `become invisible` - rest up, replenish, restore and hope that tomorrow is a better day. But, these are the days I try to focus on my psychological awareness and spiritual health. When I`m struck down with acute sickness and on bad flare up days or weeks, I have noticed I feel better when my psychological and spiritual health and healing become a focus.

I hope this book can be used as a positive resource. Something that can be useful, and that others (with FMS) can refer back to on those bad days. The days where we may be in `hiding`, in isolation and – indeed - invisible. These are the days that maybe this book can be picked up and reviewed again, and provide some validation and reassurance. To help gain perspective that may be temporarily misplaced or lost. To re gain clarity. To help through difficult times.

When faced with management of a chronic condition, its natural that we usually start with our physical care and hopefully intervention but it doesn’t stop there. FMS is a chronic and underestimated condition. It is difficult and overwhelming to manage. To cope with the impacts is one of the biggest challenges I have ever faced. IT IS VERY VERY REAL.

However, as with any chronic health condition, we can`t rely solely on medical and pharmalogical intervention and treatments. Not all the answers will be provided!

We may be greatly assisted, and especially in the short term and indeed I WAS. BUT then, I found that not all the answers were there. I found that I had to look beyond that. I realised I had much to gain by embracing both pharmalogical and non pharmalogical approaches.

I also found that many lifestyle changes were needed, as with most chronic health conditions.

For example – a diabetic may require medication and pharmalogical intervention. BUT for effective long term management, there also needs to be lifestyle changes – DIET, exercise and other adaptations.

A person with a back injury and living with chronic pain may need pain management intervention. But in order to live and function at an optimal level ALSO adaptation of environment may be needed, and changes to the way activities are carried out and what activities can be managed. To maintain an important focus on ABILITY.

FMS is no different – but we face many complexities!

Whilst I needed to target many areas of physical functioning that needed support, I also needed to examine other parts of myself, including self-acceptance. I had to learn to BE and not just always DO, and I faced some barriers along the way. These were my biggest areas of growth (patience and BEING).

This was a positive `thing`, although sometimes confronting BUT I actually now enjoy the new parts of ME. The parts that have started to shine through on good days – the ME that (most of the time) feels more calm and peaceful than I have for a long time. Sometimes I feel disappointed that I had to come to appreciate and enjoy the simple things by being challenged by health problems. But, such is life and I now need to keep this balance and keep the faith that I will be able to continue to enjoy and appreciate all the beautiful and good things and that the more difficult and bad days will continue to pale into significance. Life is always about highs and lows and positive and negative and includes challenges. Most of us know that the important thing is to continually capitalise on and notice the highs - the good.

This condition affects each of us differently – not just because of the complexity of the illness but also because of our previous life experiences and other factors that will influence how we manage this condition. We each have a great inner strength. We just need to tap into it. Until we do, we can`t really be sure of our own true character. Our values and behaviours will influence how we respect, nurture and care for ourselves and how we feel about this.

Respecting, nurturing and honouring yourself is NOT being selfish! No one with FMS is selfish – quite the opposite I would actually say – SELFLESS. From being confronted with FMS, I slowly had to take steps to accept myself and not feel guilty, to set boundaries and say NO – it was crucial for my healing process. If we don`t accept this, then others will not either.

We are all different – in the way we experience the condition and symptoms, the care we receive, the support we have, how we cope and the choices we make to manage our health care and needs. We are different in the backgrounds we have, the life history we have travelled, the pre cursors to the illness, the triggers, the onset, the diagnosis process etc etc. BUT, the common thread we have to each other is our capacity to understand and show empathy and compassion. Universally we feel the same things, although it may be different sequence or order but generally the same feelings - and in this way we connect to each others stories.

It is through our own learning, researching, information, sharing, intervention, planning, strategies, health care planning, enhanced nutrition etc etc that we progress forward and the important part is to also take with you your psychological and spiritual self.

I know that whenever I have faced sadness and hard times, the people I most admire and look up to – are those who have endured, faced challenge, overcome adversity, battled illness, had amazing life stories. BUT, in the process they have BECOME a person that has come out the other side and still has so much beauty, strength and grace to show the world. These are my role models and these are the greatest teachers. They don’t have any miracle cures but just simply do their best to get through whilst somehow learning so much about themselves and becoming a light that shines on others and gently encourages others.

I choose to do my very best to follow on their behaviours, as their positive attitude seems to add to their ability to cope and their individual resilience. I needed to remain empowered and responsible for my own health care and I was lucky to link in with a GP, and later a Naturopath - both of whom respected and supported that approach.

There is work to be done within Australia in regards to FMS, in order to improve medical care and intervention (including diagnosis), to develop inclusive and supportive policies and holistic supports for those of us with not just FMS but also other `invisible` chronic illnesses.

But, we are gaining momentum.

I approach the future positively and as with our condition – I have to believe that baby steps will continue to move us forwards. If we give in to our disappointment then we will not progress. Negative thoughts and behaviour greatly influence how we cope day to day with the impacts of illness.

So, also negative thoughts about our future and believing that we will not progress forward, will also make us feel more disempowered and hopeless within our own situation. This kind of thinking will also further hinder our complex condition, add to stress and therefore possibly further exacerbate our myriad of symptoms!

The biggest gains will be made when there is better awareness and understanding for people with these conditions. Having a society that is more aware of the impacts of these conditions and understanding these illnesses. A society that better accepts that these conditions are indeed real and life changing! This will then flow on to improved acknowledgement, more research, improved diagnosis, intervention and treatment AND hopefully better access to a wider range of services that can better meet individual needs. These elements will assist long term management and thus improve the `reality landscape` and enable better quality of life and participation for all of us affected by these conditions, BUT we each must also empower ourselves and believe there are many strategies and approaches that we can also implement ourselves to help our own management and care!!

I`m hoping that within our community, by getting this book `out there`, it may provide some `fuel` and will better support some of the existing vehicles and work towards improved outcomes for fibromyalgia as a whole. BUT I hope it will also assist the people that travel this very lonely, confusing and often challenging road. The road that includes many ups and downs, many unexpected twists and turns, many mixed feelings including disappointment, grief, sadness, helplessness, anger, despair, confusion and frustration just to name a few. The road that is shared by those of us living with not just fibromyalgia but also other chronic conditions, often `invisible`, isolated, tired, overwhelmed. These people are all doing the best they possibly can - mostly with unrelenting tenacity. They are truly CHAMPIONS…

Thank you for being a part of my efforts, I hope you enjoy the book; and THANK YOU for coming along today!!!!!

I would now like to hand over to Cathie, who represents Bridges and Pathways and Fibromyalgia Australia, to give us a quick run down on whats happening…Cathie will also be here through morning tea, and you will get the opportunity to talk further with her – if you wish….

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BEFORE WE BREAK FOR MORNING TEA, I have some very big thank you`s to mention today –

Firstly to Sarah and the Walkerville library for supporting today, and eagerly being involved from the outset with the book and the book launch today. Thanks so much for your efforts and support.

The people who have lent a helping hand over the last few weeks, with promotion and distribution of postcards and other materials  - for today. To the people that have shared the links, and messages about today – within their own networks, out of respect for me and the cause. THANK YOU.

To Stuart, our photographer who has kindly volunteered his time and skills to help me out today. THANK YOU (choc bar as promised!!)

 I would also like to acknowledge a very special person, my daughter Chenoa (call her up)– for her beautiful artwork that is the cover of the book. Whilst the broader idea was mine, she was able to do a wonderful job of creating a beautiful colourful piece of art.

The main focus of the cover represents a few very important things and delivers the message I hope is contained and included in the book. EXPLAIN the rainbow = hope and the sun = optimism.

I also like to call up Margaret and Claire. I have only met these two ladies over the last 5 to 6 months and believe they have been  `silent observers` for a lot of that time. I only met Claire in person a few weeks ago, and Margaret today. Once the book was near completion and publication phase came to an end, I put out an SOS for some help with promotion and media support, to get photos, to get articles in newspapers etc etc. These ladies have kindly assisted me and also provided much encouragement and support over the last few weeks. So, Thank YOU to each and both for the part you have played in this project! I know we will continue to build on our friendships and we have only just begun.

Finally, I thank a very passionate person, whom I consider lucky to be associated with, at this time and through into the future. Cathie Powell, thanks from me – not only for your support today BUT for all that you do and all that you give of yourself – to advocate for all of us with these conditions. Your tireless efforts and your unrelenting passion is very much noted and appreciated. I speak on behalf of all of us here today when I say you are truly an amazing and remarkable role model !!

Thank You to all of you here today too – from my family and myself – your support is appreciated…….now,

DRAW LUCKY SEAT – BOOK GIVE AWAY.

LOCAL PRESENTATION FOR 15th February 2012

FIBROMYALGIA WELLBEING

FIBROMYALGIA is estimated to affect around 2% to 8% of the population…

No accurate figures are possible, which clearly supports the need for more work to be done – on many levels, with this chronic illness. It is then estimated to affect around 65,000 people in this state alone!!

Dr Richard Kwiatek (an Adelaide rheumatologist specialising in this area) suggests that FMS is one of the most prevalent musculo skeletal disorders and accounts for approx. 25% of new referrals to rheumatologist specialists. Diagnosis can be drawn out and very complex, and its sometimes referred to as a CMI = Chronic multi system illness. Its far reaching syndrome of symptoms are greatly misunderstood, and bring impacts to the sufferer which are greatly underestimated by others.

Fibromyalgia is explained by Dr Jacob Teitelbaum, MD (an author, who is MY HERO) as  - a short circuit that occurs as a result of a malfunction in the H-P-A axis, (hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal axis). In simple terms, it occurs when energy demand exceeds available supply. The body then experiences a trickle like effect, and one poorly functioning system will affect the next….poor health, nutritional issues and deficiencies, infections, pregnancy/hormonal changes and other factors impact on the severity and symptoms. Therefore, lifestyle, genetic weaknesses (eg thyroid problems), ongoing significant stress and diet and nutrition are all factors to be considered. Symptoms may include  - stiffness, widespread pain, unrelenting fatigue/extreme exhaustion, sleep disorders, hormonal dysfunction, increased allergies, brain/cognitive dysfunction (confusion and memory problems), anxiety/depression, infection and immune dysfunction, and reduced ability to tolerate and manage stress. All these symptoms occur as result of hypothalamus, pituitary or adrenal problems (mainly underfunctioning).

I will now move forward to how my relationship with fibromyalgia began…..

As many of you know, I have dedicated a large portion of myself and my time over many years – both professionally and in voluntary capacity – to helping others and supporting and developing community. Most recently, this club has supported my Professional endeavours, and also my voluntary involvement with DELTA SOCIETY, as a pet therapy visiting team – with my little dog `ANGEL`.

Some of you may be aware, that in April 2011, I reluctantly gave up my professional role – one that I was passionate about and greatly enjoyed. My health was becoming more of a challenge and I needed to make a difficult decision. My decision was to better support my health and well being, and also to try to restore some quality of life to our home and family life. Therefore, my resignation was submitted.

Although I was officially `diagnosed` with FMS in late 2007, I continued to work but this ongoing challenge continued to result in further decline physically.

My health issues began subtley, from around 2003 – when my daughter was 2 years old….however, things were not appropriately addressed and therefore remained greatly unmanaged and therefore greater strain and drain continued on my physical body, until mid 2007 – when I experienced seizure type activity, resulting in hospitalisation, low blood pressure, low white cell count and an underfunctioning body – on many levels.

Luckily for me, pursuing a second opinion at that time, brought some answers. Thanks to my wonderful GP, slowly the areas of poor functioning were addressed. Around 18 months ago, my GP began working along side a Naturopath, and this has enabled at long last some stable results and better outcomes that will hopefully continue to bring further improvements.

From early 2008 I required monthly blood tests, and doctors visits and slight changes to medications and other interventions followed.

I initially saw a GP, a rheumatologist, an endocrinologist, and for a while a psychologist and then came the naturopath. I was given a variety of medications and realised that more than medicine alone was needed to stabilise and improve my situation – so, a wide range of both pharmalogical and non pharmalogical approaches were used. I needed to restore the underfunctioning systems but also needed to aim for long term management and wellbeing.

For a while the term hypopituitarism was used, and replacement of all pituitary hormones began. This included hypothyroidism, secondary premature ovarian failure and adrenal insufficiency. For a while I also required daily injections of growth hormone, as I was told my levels indicated the physical age of a 70 plus year old, in terms of energy – and I was 39 at that time! Unfortunately for me - this is a very slow process, as stabilisation requires slow introduction and minor changes along the way. I guess that luckily for me, I was in a phase of denial for most of this time and as such, continued working and pushing myself through – as it wasn’t going to beat me!!!! This may have assisted me psychologically (to not give up), but certainly did NOT physically.

Sleep disorders were also of prime importance (more medications), and then nutritional deficiencies and infections were targeted.

I certainly don’t proclaim to be an expert, but I am pretty proud of how I have managed to get to this point. I have learnt a lot ! I have had to make changes and had to make new choices that reflected my needs and focussed on balancing the physical – psychological – spiritual aspects – for ME.

I have always had an interest in helping others and encouraging their empowerment. Luckily one of my strengths has been sourcing information and I`ve been resourceful by nature. I have had many many bad days… days in which others do not see me, and therefore this becomes an invisible illness and as such I have had limited support through this journey. It can be very easy to slip into victim mode, and get stuck – due to social isolation. But, I have constantly tried my best to turn this challenge into a learning opportunity for myself. I certainly needed medical interventions and support, and I certainly needed to remain open minded to different ways and approaches..

But, the biggest and most important thing to learn was that I needed to remain empowered, and remain actively involved in my own wellbeing.  I had to support my own hopefulness and find my own inner strength.

So, when I felt that I had regained my control and enough physical strength – in September, I started to write.

I started to write something that I was looking for around 4 years ago but couldn’t find. Something that provided some encouragement and hope to others – not just with FMS, but with others facing challenging health issues or other problems.

Its easy for people to become victims and be defined by illness or life challenges. But, my motivation for writing has become about nurturing others and encouraging them to find their own strength, their own solutions and their own pathways. I hope that when they read this book, they feel hopeful and encouraged to become their own `specialist` - and most of all, I hope they may find their inner strength…the courage to continue to move forward, and take baby steps. To find their balance and move beyond victim mode and reach out to others that may offer useful support and strategies – to NOT GIVE UP.

I began writing this book on 24^th Sept 2011. I wrote only at night time, and continued until it was finished….This was approx. 4 weeks later. I then sought 2 people (not too close to me), and asked them to read it and provide feedback. Their feedback inspired me on to the next step. I then looked into self publishing and decided this would be best, if I was serious about my story getting out there…even if only 6 people are helped by this book, then its all been worth it…If I can raise awareness within the community at the same time = added bonus….If I can then link people into other networks and supports (and therefore they continue to move forwards) – then this will ensure self empowerment and continued coping in the long term.

In mid November I submitted an article to a new wellness magazine – and this was published and circulated just last week !

Late November (2011) I created a facebook page `Fibromyalgia Wellbeing` and now have over 400 followers of this page…I share a combination of information that supports others with fibromyalgia in emotional, spiritual as well as physical ways. I now have others `sharing` and interacting on this page, and have received some great, positive feedback and comments reassuring me that this is making a difference.

I have the wonderful Jacob Teitelbaum on board, as well as my GP and Naturopath, and through networks and community links I feel confident that I have the commitment and passion to see this project through.

I NEVER THOUGHT I COULD CHANGE THE WORLD, BUT HAVE ALWAYS THOUGHT I COULD DO MY BIT TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE WORLD, and my own community – and this is reflected in my life history and character and integrity.

Through this book, and related efforts I hope that I can motivate others to find their own strength. To support them in remaining optimistic, and to therefore CHANGE THEIR OWN WORLD or indeed their `reality` with chronic illness.

I`m currently looking for sponsorship to enable me to have the total of approx. $1,600- needed for a self publishing package, that will launch this resource on world maps (hard copy and electronically). I currently have a short fall of approx. $900- and I hope you may be able to provide between $300- and $900- and then I am able to proceed with publishing! As we are now only on one income and self employed, I can and will continue to provide my time voluntarily to support this cause and others with this condition – but financially at this time, I am limited as you would understand. My family and some personal supporters are also happy to undertake or assist with any events, functions etc that you may use to raise any monies to support publishing!

I TRULY HOPE YOU WILL SUPPORT ME IN THIS PROJECT.

THANK YOU….

A Simple Birthday Wish....

This coming Saturday is my Birthday.

Around four weeks ago, I was feeling very positive about Christmas, as it was approaching. I left my paid employment in April, and around October I started to feel like I was gaining `control` over the long term management of my Fibro and all that goes along with it.

December was full of planning, pacing, preparation and looking forward to the school holidays :-)

The week of Christmas was busy, but again I was finding time to rest when needed and was getting better at listening to my body. My daughter and I happily undertook shopping and `making` things for Christmas day, finished shopping, wrapping of presents and we were looking forward to the festive season. I coped better this Christmas than the last 4 Christmases - which had (to be honest) had a fair amount of dread attached to them - due to the expectations of those around me and my anxiety that comes with that and stems from my concern that I would not cope very well.

Indeed, this year (pre christmas)- I had even be on the right track with following a healthy diet, supporting my body with good nutrition and undertaking gentle, daily exercise around 5 days a week.

I must have been feeling good - because in my optimism I invited another family to celebrate my Birthday at our home (14th January), and had an idea that we may have an informal lunch, and perhaps share this with some family and friends - maybe totalling 16 to 18 people. In my thinking was chicken platters, salads, finger foods - and a nice post christmas catch up before 2012 becomes hectic once again. I emailed some invites prior to Christmas, as I have learned over 43 years that this needs to be done earlier on, before the busy New Year period and holiday times for many.

WHAT WAS I THINKING ????

The reality slap came just this week - on Saturday 7th January to be precise!! When I began to feel the post Christmas stress/let down phase, together with the anxiety I feel when I am faced with overwhelming situations - (lucky for me!) this is one of my biggest challenges with my FMS.

You see, what had unfolded was a very good Christmas with minimal stress. The following day found us at our niece`s 21st Birthday (High Tea) and farewell as she leaves to work at Mt Isa :-(

The day after that we visited family up in Waikerie (Riverland) which was a day trip of approx 1.5 hours travelling each way. Although we had to travel, it was a low stress and very enjoyable event.

Next day we stayed at home - needed to do some sorting out after christmas...Rested!!

Then the next day, we packed up and travelled to our holiday van at Victor Harbor, approx 1.5 hours travelling. Arrived, unpacked and settled in for the next 3 days - intending to spend New Years Eve there....However, as we were then heading to Sydney for a 4 day family holiday on the 4th of January, it was decided we would head home early - to minimise stress and enable me some rest before our big Sydney trip! So, we returned home on New Years Eve, unpacked, setttled in, etc. New Years Day we stayed close to home - and kept things low key.

I was still managing all of this quite well, and making sure I was getting some rest time and pacing myself.

The next 2 days were spent repacking and focussing on the first family holiday we had been able to take for several years - mainly due to my illness. Also complicating our holiday and family time is the fact we have our own business and my partner ONLY gets this (short) period of time as his annual holiday!

I dropped the dog at her `boarding home` and we were finally prepared for our plane flight (early) the following morning!!

After a good flight, we found our apartment in The Rocks, Sydney, and settled in. This time it was my partner that was off colour and stayed at the apartment to sleep off his ill effects of the flight. Daughter and I ventured out to take a look around our near vicinity for a couple of hours....The following day we headed by ferry across the harbour to the fabulous Taronga Zoo, and had a HUGE but fabulous day!! Managed to get a 2 hour nap in that afternoon!!

The next 2 days were spent sight seeing - within my `window of opportunity time` (between 10:30am and 2:30pm) and saw what the time allowed. My partner (Brenton) went off to do some additional sights on his own, that were not of interest to me and our 10 year old daughter.

By Saturday 7th January, I was starting to feel the strain and the previous 2 weeks were beginning to take their toll - made worse in my mind, as I knew I still had more activities in sight! And also still another 2 weeks of school holidays to come :-)

We returned home late on Sunday 8th Jan, unpacked etc etc and settled in at home again. The following day was Brentons 50th Birthday and suffice to say I was not really up for having visitors coming through - though I felt guilty for this. However, we had gone to Sydney for this special Birthday - at Brentons request. The next few days at home meant more unpacking, child care, collecting the dog, bathing the dog, washing, and chores (food shopping etc) and these were now my responsibilities, as Brenton had to return to work on the Monday.

I then cancelled what plans I had made for my Birthday...I had a few days to spend at home, and catch my breath. Then, I had the choice that I could
1/ have a foot massage, and eye brows and waxing done on Friday OR
2/ I could run around getting things arranged for having people over for lunch on Saturday. Then I had cleaning up etc to also take care of afterwards.

Given what has unfolded over the last 3 weeks, I decided I couldnt cope with any more `work` and stress.

What I intend to do is head down to the beach (approx 25 mins drive), after a bit of a sleep in. Have late breakfast at the hotel on the beach...maybe take a walk, have a coffee and have some time to sit at the beach. I love the beach - it keeps me grounded and restores my soul....makes me feel peaceful - and thats what I need for my Birthday.

This concerns others - as until I had FMS, I was a very social and outgoing person, who would have taken the past 2 weeks into her stride and then some...then, would have arranged a celebration for my Birthday. They seem to feel bad for me - as they think I am depressed and think `I should` do something more exciting for my Birthday.

But, not this year...maybe not even next year.
I just want something very simple and to be able to enjoy my Birthday , the way that I choose to.

However, I have mixed emotions as a result of changing these plans.

I feel guilty - for cancelling the plans I had made, and keeping things low key. I feel the expectations of others around me.

I feel frustrated - that others dont really understand why I need to cancel and change plans.

I feel disappointed - that my life has changed so much and I am a little sad that I am not able to do what I would have chosen to do 10 years ago.

I even feel a little resentful - that Brentons Birthday comes before mine every year and we celebrate his and everyone is `over it all` by the time they get to mine. That we have to have such a busy time (through this period), and that my Birthday tends to pale into significance.

But, mostly - right now - I FEEL TIRED ....And I crave some `beach time` to replenish myself - and have a day off!

I recognise that awareness is the first step in healing or changing. I become more aware with each passing day.

I cant change the date of my Birthday, and I cant change the effects I feel from FMS.

I tried my best, to manage the best I could over the last 3 weeks.

Whilst I am not sure how well I will be able to manage these feelings, I do know that I can look back proudly over the last month and tell myself how well I have coped! I have done my best. We have had some great times, attended some great festivities and enjoyed family times. Its been worth it! :-) I need to keep focussed on the positives.

I cant worry about how others may react to the change of plans and cancelling what I had intended to do.
I can only look forward to a day (on Saturday) where I can minimise my stress levels and enjoy some fresh air, sunshine, and being at a place I love. I can make the most of the day and BE with my family and enjoy the simple pleasures that will bring me peace.

All I am doing is `going with the flow` and listening to my body. Doing what I need to do, for ME.

After all - its MY birthday.
I am yearning for simplicity (and the beach).

I am easy to please - so, I will keep it simple.

SIMPLE.......

Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom.

Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.

(Lao Tzu)

swim with the tide and let it take you where it wants you to go.

Very recently, this following quote was posted/shared on my facebook page `FIBROMYALGIA WELLBEING`. And it rings true for many people - but its relevance in this case - was for others with Fibromyalgia......

`A person has three choices in life. You can swim against the tide and get exhausted, or you can tread water and let the tide sweep you away, or you can swim with the tide, and let it take you where it wants you to go`.

It made me think again about denial versus acceptance of this myriad of symptoms and cluster of health issues and challenges that I live as a reality - Fibromyalgia.

I also read another post somewhere today about healing from the inside out, instead of the other way around.

I am one of the first people to push the barrow of increased acceptance, understanding and compassion from society - towards people with Fibromyalgia (and other chronic conditions and health issues and/or disabilities).

However, the reality may well be that instead of seeking validation from the outside, we need to focus on the inside. To begin our healing or restoring, we need to become our own best friend and work towards strategies that will enable this to happen.

Dont waste precious energy on being frustrated because others dont undersand. Lord knows, in my worst days - I really didnt understand what was happening myself. How did I (then) expect others will be able to understand.

Believe me, I know how important it is to feel supported and how depressing it can be to feel isolated and alone but these are the times we can learn about ourselves and make positive changes. Instead of being annoyed and disappointed because we may be missing out. Instead of grieving because we have lost some of our previous quality of life. Instead of continuing to spiral downwards into a negative thinking cycle, turn your thoughts around. Its hard and (of course), the right support to help us through these difficult times is crucial. Not the support that makes us feel incompetent, guilty, lazy or worse than before. But the support that uplifts us and understands us, validates our feelings and can guide us through these difficult times. The right support is out there - we just need to remain open to it and lose our expectations of what it `should` look like. It may be via a Professional - it doesnt matter where or how, but with appropriate support - we can regain our balance, strength and perspective.

The reality is - everyone has struggles. People face their own challenges on a regular basis. Some people live with disability, or other health issues and some are far worse than Fibromyalgia.

The reality is - we show compassion to others, we support others, we try to show empathy to others.

When another person is faced with a problem like cancer, or diabetes, or they have limitations or disabilities - we automatically validate that and accept their reality.

So, why is it so hard for us to do that with ourselves ?

Instead of expectations about how others should treat us, maybe we should consider that if we BEGIN this process and learn our limits and respect our needs - then it may follow that others will try to follow suit. If not, then that should not stop us from caring for ourselves !

It is widely documented that people with FMS are typically `Type A Over achievers`.....we are intelligent, motivated, hard working people - we know that.

So, we also know that this condition affects many different systems and is known as `chronic multi system illness`.....although symptoms vary between individuals, many issues and symptoms overlap.

We cannot deny the main common point is `ENERGY SYSTEMS` (Hypothalamus - Pituitary - Adrenal axis).

If we listen closely to our bodies, they are undoubtedly saying

STOP.....SLOW DOWN.......REST.........CHILL OUT.....

And that is what needs to be done - at least to begin the healing process...if we do this, then we will have our energy to think and thus perspective and clearer and more positive thinking may follow.

A person with diabetes knows that they need to consider food in order to better manage their condition - some foods will make them worse, other foods will help long term management and increase stability. Sometimes medications are also needed to help this process on physical level. If they dont follow these strategies - then their condition may worsen and/or other problems may be triggered.

Fibromyalgia is no different....It is REAL, and it means that at least initially WE NEED TO TAKE CARE OF OUR PHYSICAL HEALTH, and our emotional wellbeing....we need to consider our nutrition, we need to ensure we find time for gentle exercise, we need to get adequate sleep and rest, we need to address any deficiencies and infections, and most of the time we need to take medications for the parts that just `need a little help`..there is no shame in that. It is just a HUGE refocus for us, being such workaholics, over achievers etc,....we are not used to caring for ourselves on this level.

BUT IT IS WHAT IS NEEDED....

So, if we return to the original quote....

`A person has three choices in life. You can swim against the tide and get exhausted, or you can tread water and let the tide sweep you away, or you can swim with the tide, and let it take you where it wants you to go`.

We can get exhausted with our expectations and disappointments, remain in fight-flight mode, remain stressed and continue to push harder and not give in. We can resist the changes we know we need to make. We can allow ourselves to be defined by our limitations and NOT listen to our bodies nor respect our needs OR

We can tread water by doing nothing. We can deny that we need to address our poor health and deny that we have a very real issue that we need to address. We can allow ourselves to feel disempowered and relinquish our control to others (eg Doctors etc) and let the tide sweep us away OR

We can let go and surrender, to do what we know we need to do for ourselves. Go with the tide, one wave at a time.

We can accept this `reality` and listen to our body. We can address the physical deficiencies and problems. We can reach out to others and get the support we need. We can remain empowered and responsible for our own health and wellbeing. We can become active participants in our health care and make choices that we feel comfortable with. We can take the action and the steps that are right for our own self. Perhaps by doing this, we will promote our own recovery and healing - and move through this challenging experience. I know one thing for sure - this last choice will be the least stressful.

Resistance does need and take far more energy - energy that we just dont have !

So, swim with the tide and make your peace - and become your own best friend. Save your energy for positive healing.