pzldone

Fibromyalgia and A Truckload of Other Illnesses

2008-05-07T00:18:00Z

Quite a few years ago, before Fibro was even remotely accepted or understood as a disease, I was beginning to have symptoms that were interrupting life in a major way. It was a long, hard road to find out why there were pains that traveled from one spot to another. It didn't help to have various other illnesses poke their little heads into the picture just for good measure. It has been my experience that having one illness is just not something that is common among people. What amazes me is how many illnesses or diseases one person can have and still function in a normal society. I have a list of things that have caused some major problems over the years and, yes, I do have my moments when I simply cannot stand one more minute. But in talking to others, I am constantly reminded that things could be worse.

This site has already helped me in so many ways. As I read through the various posts and blogs, I find my heart overwhelmed by love and compassion for all of you who are experiencing so much pain and discomfort in your lives. It is an inspiration to me to keep going and be thankful that I have been so blessed. Thank you for the courage and inspiration you have shown to me. You never know whose life you will touch or in what way you will affect that life for good. So many of you have touched my life positively, even in the short time since I found Disaboom. And I am very thankful for having found Disaboom. I can already see that it is going to be a great help. Thank you, again. pzldone

The Unexpected Joys Of Disabled Retirement

2008-05-06T00:31:00Z

I'm not really new to the retirement world, per say. I've been at home with medical challenges of one kind or another for more years than I care to mention. I am, however, enjoying the comparatively new experience of being at home and having my retired husband home as much as I am. Its an invigorating experience to be able to spend virtually all of my time with my best friend. As long as we've been married, we've talked longingly of the day when we would retire and have the time and the capability of being together more. Now, that day is here and it is more than I could have ever hoped for!

Okay, so it isn't exactly as I anticipated. There are some things we never expected to happen. But is it necessarily 'BAD' to have breakfast at noon? Is it all that wrong to enjoy staying up half the night instead of half the day? My husband and I love to write and, at least for us, some of the best story ideas strike us after the sun goes down. It just wouldn't do for us to wait until the first hint of sunlightbefore we write those good ideas down.

Disability, like retirement, is what you make it ~ ~ ~ and I think the fun has just begun.

How I Grin and Bear It

2008-05-06T00:26:00Z

Having a sticker to hang in my car so I can park in the "Handicapped" spot definitely has its advantages. Naturally, the parking is generally closer. We don't have to carry packages as far from the store. And, when people realize that I actually have a right to be using a Handicapped sticker, the help and generosity are abundant. In fact, I am constantly amazed at the kindness of friends and strangers, alike

The interesting thing is that when people feel you are justified, they can't seem to help enough. Counter that with the angered looks and sense of animosity if you are viewed as someone who is "Only taking advantage of someone else's sticker." In short, few of us are willing to allow 'pirating,' especially when it comes to those who are less-capable or with fewer advantages.

Mine is not an obvious challenge, so I've had my share of some of those angered looks. I try, most of the time, to allow for other peoples' lack of knowledge [though, I am, admittedly not yet an angel]. So, most of the time, I grin and bear it. Deep down, though, I can wallow in my own secret knowledge that disabilities suck.