What is your diagnosis?
I have Fibromyalgia and Complex-PTSD. Both of these illnesses have a myriad of symptoms. It makes treatment and diagnosis difficult. My symptoms can change daily.
How long have you been blogging?
I was keeping a journal online in 1996 in both long and short forms. I started with just a website on Geocities and Xanga, then hosted my blog using GreyMatter and WordPress.
What advice do you have for me?
You know your body, and you have to know what is best for you. Never take anything for granted, and treat yourself with the love and compassion you give others.
When were you diagnosed?
After decades of suffering, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in 2004. Over my lifetime, I had seen so many doctors that I lost count. Diagnoses from “probably Cancer” to “stop being lazy and get off the couch.” Finally, I had a GP that told me she knew SOMETHING was going on but had no idea what it was and sent me to a specialist. There is no test for fibromyalgia, but simple guidelines help doctors figure out what is going on and how to help treat it. I was also diagnosed with Complex-PTSD in 2017.
What prompted you to open yourself up to the world by writing your story?
I got tired of holding it in. Pushing down all of the pain and suffering and pretending nothing was wrong wasn’t working for me. I finally decided that holding it all back was just too much. I have been journaling all of my life, both on and offline. But, while publishing, I was never 100% honest about what was going on with me. It has been helping me by just letting it out into the ether.
How often do you post?
I try to post at least 2x a week, but it is random.
Are you going to have a podcast or videos?
I am not sure yet. I don’t like the sound of my voice or the way I look on camera, so it may never happen. But I find that when I write things out, I tend to edit as I go, which makes getting the ideas out.
How long have you traveled in an RV?
Michael and I have been living in an RV since September 2007. It has been a balance between stationary tiny home living and life on the road. We have places we like and return to often. However, we always look forward to checking out new sites.
Why “Chronic-Illogical”?
There is nothing logical about chronic illness.