IIAW - Walking in my shoes - a short account
Written by: @Rozie
The muscle aches and pain, the fatigue,and the depression are constant and unrelenting day after day. At first my family and friends are concerned and supportive.. they want me to get well. But it doesn't happen and as time goes on I sense their weariness and frustration and even resentment as they pick up roles that were mine. And I look all right they say. This illness is is not only getting me.. its getting them too. I can't stand to see them suffering as well, so I share less and less, and retreat into my own world of darkness and despair. Then a door opens and someone comes into my life, someone who has been where I am, who has known the depths, and has also learned to live with this. Now I am free to share... ever wondered why support groups can work so well.. now I know.
This was a short account of what it feels like to have an invisible illness. I hope you guys understood a lot more about IIs through this :)
@Rozie, thank you for writing this. I reckon it took a lot to be so brave, so honest and open about your situation. I appreciate it. It is not your fault to have this illness, but still I know these words makes a little of help to ease the sufferings.
It is great of you that you don't want to hurt your loved ones that you decided to keep your feelings for yourself. It shows how much you care about them. Still, they also care about you and maybe they want to help you. The invisible illness can affect the whole family, but it doesn't mean that you should fight alone. Just remember that there are people who are willing to support you, and even if it has to deal with pain, it doesn't have to equal despair.
Remember that this community also cares about you, lovely. We are here for you.
Sending lots and lots of hugs from a fellow member and admirer!
Thank you @Celaeno for your support and kind words. I agree that your family want to support you, but maybe they just get tired when the illness goes on and on and is invisible.And they need to be supported too.
Over time I have learned to live with this illness, and appreciate all the support I have had along the way. Now instead of the illness dominating my life,it has its place among all the other parts that make up the whole of life.
@Rozie
Thank you for sharing :)