Multiple health conditions and the changes they bring
I was diagnosed with diabetes at 9 years old. I barely remember not having it. About 20 years ago, I developed endometriosis, leading to multiple surgeries over the years. After my hysterectomy, I began showing symptoms of hereditary angioedema. This has been the source of my severe pain. When experiencing swelling from HAE, anything that touches my skin, clothing included, makes me feel on fire. The swelling is rough, since insurance will not cover the medication. This swelling recently affected my optic nerves, leaving me permanently blind about a year ago.
The blindness has been a catastrophic change, which has been very difficult. My hobbies are mostly lost. I have relearned how to crochet by feeling, and now I listen to tons of audiobooks and music. I’m feeling isolated and unseen, now. I always feel like a burden and the recipient of pity. I’m trying to be independent, but often feel like my skills are no better than a toddler.
How does one accept their change of abilities and find grace? How do I prevent others from man handling me in their attempts to help? How do I express what help I actually want?
