This is an email I received. The author wishes to remain anonymous. My response will be posted in a few days. Any other responses in the meantime are welcome.
I have two daughters, ages 4 and 6, and I have
fibromyalgia. I was diagnosed in 2012 after years of suffering with pain and fatigue and
not knowing why. My biggest challenge is missing the important events
in my childrens' lives because I'm in too much pain to get out of
bed. I've already missed my oldest daughter's preschool graduation.
Not a big deal, right? I mean, it's not her high school graduation
after all.
Dear Megan,
I have two daughters, ages 4 and 6, and I have
fibromyalgia. I was diagnosed in 2012 after years of suffering with pain and fatigue and
not knowing why. My biggest challenge is missing the important events
in my childrens' lives because I'm in too much pain to get out of
bed. I've already missed my oldest daughter's preschool graduation.
Not a big deal, right? I mean, it's not her high school graduation
after all.
But what if it will be? First I miss their
recitals, then I can't teach them how to drive, then their proms pass
me by... Their wedding days? The births of their own children? I am
scared that I won't be there for my kids because I'll be forced to
take care of myself. I don't want to put myself first because that's
not what a mom does.
It hurts. I've tried to talk to friends and
family about it, but they tell me to “buck up” and be thankful
for what I have and not to borrow trouble. I am thankful for what I
have. I know it could be worse. But I'm still sad about the way
things are and the lack of control chronic illness creates. Thanks
for giving me someplace to share without judgment.
– Alone in the Lone Star
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