Hitting the Illness Wall

The mental and emotional impacts chronic illness management requires is difficult to quantify or explain. It’s a full time job, with countless hours of self-advocacy, especially when medical staff find, “nothing wrong”. There are endless appointments, tests, and stacks of insurance papers to review or appeal.

Yet you may feel so poorly you struggle to get out of bed, hold down a job, enjoy hobbies, or connect with family and friends.

The last several weeks have been difficult for me. Medicines aimed at calming my instance of sarcoidosis have yet to provide relief. That paired with not having a job and the need to travel for care has added stress and fear regarding our families financial wellbeing. At times I’ve felt like giving up; no-one is forcing me to go to the doctor and if they can’t help, what’s the point?

Why not avoid the expenses related to medical appointments and medicine. This sentiment lasts a day or two before it subsides.

I remember it’s not just about me; my wife kids, and close friends all support me in countless ways. I owe it to them to get out of bed. I take comfort in staying home with our kids and working on EverGreen projects. I have lofty goals for the organization, and I have work to contribute.

I’m thankful to have an incredibly supportive partner and find purpose every day.

I know it’s tough to either manage or care for someone that may never recover. Feel free to send us an email or follow along on social media. And if you’re ever in SW Montana, give us a shout; we’d be happy to get outside for a hike or meet for coffee.

Connection to others is medicinal and I’d love to hear your story.