For the first time in as long as I can remember, I spent - TopicsExpress

For the first time in as long as I can remember, I spent Thanksgiving Day alone, I still have SO much to be thankful for !! Unfortunately, BOTH of my illnesses, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibro, have really been flaring lately. VERY few people close to me really understand either of these or how debilitating they can be and for the most part act as if they dont even exist. For this reason, i normally dont even mention it no matter how bad it may be at the time because I feel like others feel I am just trying to get sympathy, which is SO far from the truth. However, I am VERY thankful for the few who DO understand and see firsthand the affect these illnesses have on me. I understand that the illnesses are invisible so I DO look fine, but unfortunately, I am far from fine. I do my best to hide it the best I can from my grand kids when I am with them but, Wow, how I suffer later. The hardest part is seeing the empathy and kindness shown to others who also suffer from an illness, which is more visible and discussed more, yet I am treated like I am fine and asked many times whats wrong with you?. I normally do fine with all the comments but there are times when it is hurtful. I just wish the people closest to me understood or at least would TRY to understand how difficult these illnesses can be. I am NEVER not in pain and when the CFS is flaring I am SO tired beyond ANY tired I have EVER experienced that I am unable to even get to the restroom without assistance. This is just a SMALL glimpse of what MOST never see. Sorry for the pity party !! I DO try my best to not show my weaknesses but at times it DOES affect me. AGAIN, a HUGE thanks to the few who ARE supportive and especially for the one who is trying hard to understand and do everything possible to make life easier for me !! #invisibleillnessawareness