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Struggling with Chronic Illness and Financial Instability

PEMprincess

478d

My illness took my independence, ability to work, and university experience away. I want to go to school and earn in a way that won’t leave me drained so badly. Debilitated. Back to school season has been so difficult for me every time it rolls around. I would’ve been a senior in college this year. Had $20k I saved/earned myself before college to start my life. Instead I’ve had to use those funds to cover medical expenses the past 3 years. Only have a little funds left not sure how I’ll support myself when this runs out. Been trying different things over time but nothing has held up. Hurts.

7

7

7

Malaise & Fatigue

Fibromyalgia (FM)

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis

Syncope

Lethargy

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Top reply
    • PEMprincess

      477d

      @CinderLorel I totally understand. Relating to these feelings 100%. I think what helps me most is understanding that each human endures great pain or are in longstanding situations with problems that suck all across the board, one way or another. So those of us with chronic illness must not compare ourselves to others without health issues, but instead reclaim our independence by choosing which type of problems/pain we’re willing to deal with (now and later), upgrading our problems so to speak. So hell yeah if we will hurt or be bedridden regardless might as well be for a reason that fulfills us and speaks to our soul!! Definitely a hard feat to endure but always better to focus on what we can control than what we can’t. No matter how bad things get or how low I feel I know that at any given time, I haven’t experienced some of the best days of my life yet! That’s the glue that holds me together. Sending you all the love & healing energy ❤️❤️❤️

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    • CinderLorel

      478d

      Chronic illness took my dream job, endometriosis caused me to miss half my junior year of high school and would have senior year as well if not for Covid. Now my doctor is concerned that it will affect my ability to conceive a child. I understand. Everyone says not to let your illness define you but it is so difficult when the illness confines you to your bed. I want hobbies, I want to roller skate and do hair for a living, I want to sew by hand and swim, I want to eat food I love,but I have limits physically that if I ignore it can put me in the hospital. I’m at a point I’ve said screw it, I’ll be in pain ethier way I may as well enjoy something. It’s hard not to get depressed when you live in a way that isn’t really living…

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      • PEMprincess

        477d

        @CinderLorel I totally understand. Relating to these feelings 100%. I think what helps me most is understanding that each human endures great pain or are in longstanding situations with problems that suck all across the board, one way or another. So those of us with chronic illness must not compare ourselves to others without health issues, but instead reclaim our independence by choosing which type of problems/pain we’re willing to deal with (now and later), upgrading our problems so to speak. So hell yeah if we will hurt or be bedridden regardless might as well be for a reason that fulfills us and speaks to our soul!! Definitely a hard feat to endure but always better to focus on what we can control than what we can’t. No matter how bad things get or how low I feel I know that at any given time, I haven’t experienced some of the best days of my life yet! That’s the glue that holds me together. Sending you all the love & healing energy ❤️❤️❤️

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    • PhotonMike

      478d

      That's rough. I don't have much in the way of advice since I'm still working through things myself, but I relate to those struggles.

      1

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      • PEMprincess

        477d

        @PhotonMike Also, I meet very few men with CFS and am always curious! Especially in pre-diagnosis stages. The medical field and societal standards can be so bias and unfair. How has your personal experience/process been with this condition? from one human who truly cares to another, x

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        • PhotonMike

          476d

          @PEMprincess They first thought my fatigue was caused by anxiety/depression, then discovered I have diabetes, and most recently identified extremely low testosterone. The process has been slow with a lot of time waiting.

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      • PEMprincess

        477d

        @PhotonMike I feel for you so much. Hopefully we find our footing ❤️

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    • PEMprincess

      478d

      Trying not to fall into a depressive state. I’m sure I’ll be okay but would definitely like to hear from those who can relate or maybe offer some helpful solutions/ inspiring personal stories.

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☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision

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