It's been one of those weeks. One of those weeks when all I have wanted to do is shut myself up in my room and lose myself in books, movies, and God willing, some good sleep. It is my (and I am sure most of our) default position to "retreat" and isolate when I am feeling bad. And it is a desire I have given in to many times throughout my illness. But I have noticed something. I have noticed that by staying present and showing up for my life and my responsibilities, I am frequently rewarded with beautiful distractions from the symptoms that would otherwise consume me. This has been an … [Read more...]
Want to See My Vulnerable Side?
Last February I had the opportunity to hear a keynote address from motivational speaker and life coach Mike Robbins. Mike is a regular contributor to Oprah Magazine and Huffington Post, and has written two bestselling books, Focus on the Good Stuff, and Be Yourself, Everyone Else is Already Taken. His presentation was authentic and motivating, and pretty much everyone in the room left with copies of his books and a warm feeling in their heart. You know how it is in those moments when you get completely inspired - everything is brighter in that instant and you know your life is forever going … [Read more...]
Get Fibromyalgia AWARE.
Are you AWARE of one of the best resources for Fibromyalgia information on the web? The National Fibromyalgia Association is the leading non-profit organization dedicated to improving quality of life for people with Fibromyalgia. Their website has been a great resource for me as an FM patient, advocate, and support group leader. The NFA is focused on creating programs dedicated to spreading Fibromyalgia Awareness, like the Fibro Focus events that took place last year, which my support group was fortunate to participate in. The NFA truly is the leading authority on Fibromyalgia, so when … [Read more...]
Your Illness May Be Invisible, But You Are Not
In support of National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week I am approaching the one year anniversary of my blog. I have grown a lot over the past 11 months. I have made many wonderful new contacts. I have learned to be more open and honest about my health - with myself, and with my family and friends. I understand more about the causes and contributing factors of Fibromyalgia. I could go on and on about my growth, but this post is not about me. This post is a celebration of you. If you were to ask me the most important thing I am taking away from this past year, I would say YOU. From the … [Read more...]
Lynne Matallana and The National Fibromyalgia Association
If you are not already familiar with Lynne Matallana and The National Fibromyalgia Association, you should become so. Lynne founded the NFA in 1997, and has turned her hard work and advocacy for Fibromyalgia patients into the largest nonprofit organization working to support people with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain illnesses. Lynne and the NFA are at the forefront of our Fibromyalgia crusade. Spend some time on the NFA's website and you will see that they are the leaders in Fibromyalgia awareness and advocacy. Today I want to share with you this very important video of a presentation … [Read more...]