When did you know…?

@pinguan1
My sister and I both have had to leave jobs/career aspirations behind due to our chronic illnesses. It was devastating at the time. Now, it still feels a bit sad at times, but we've both come across new callings and passions which we probably never would have explored if we didn't have to look for something new, so I've come to appreciate where I've ended up overall.

My pain story starts when I started a great new job as a software engineer. However, having to sit all day ended up causing me excruciating back pain. I even had back surgery while I was working for the company. Unfortunately, the surgery didn’t work and I was back to where I started. With horrible back pain all day long from sitting at a desk.

Eventually, I had to quit that job because I couldn’t deal with it anymore. I was 25 at the time and moved back in with my parents. Luckily I had a lot of support from my parents. I’m 42 now and still deal with some level of back pain everyday, but it’s gotten better with the use of collagen supplements.

Anyway, quitting that job and looking over my health was what had to be done at the time. I had no other choice unfortunately. I ended up having odd jobs for many years afterwards while I figured out what was going on with me. It was absolutely a journey. A very tough journey. I wouldn’t wish my pain on anyone.

That journey however taught me a lot about myself and the people who cared about me. I can say I’m a different, maybe even better, person for it.

My advice to you is to find people who can support you through this time. Make sure you live well within your means and create a budget if you need to. Finally do what you need to do take care of yourself. Your health is #1, there will always be jobs waiting for you once you figure this out. Good luck!

I quit school and wasn't working for a few years due to my illnesses.

I now how a job which is a great fit for my needs. It's not the job I would want if I were capable of more, but I do like my job.

I think that's a key for most people - finding a job that's a good fit for their lifestyle.

It’s definitely a struggle. I don’t have the answer but I can say that you are not alone. I get really bad sciatic pain which locks up my back and shoulders due to stress and activity, so a heavily physical job isn’t possible for me. I also can’t stand for hours on end so a lot of retail jobs are out. I am currently working online as an academic tutor. If you can find a way to work online and have a flexible schedule it helps so much. Hope this helps!