Humans of ME/CFS
I was leading a very active life – working in the gym 3-4 days/week – and enjoying life with my new hubby. Then, in 2008 I had a minor ankle sprain which turned into CRPS. I wore myself out for 2 years trying to find someone to fix my ankle. I’m not sure, but I seem to remember having a really bad flu in November 2010.
I kept pushing myself to get back to work. Then, in January 2011 I developed blinding pain along the side of my face and that was it – I never worked again. Unfortunately, the CRPS pain also began to spread and what started out as crazy pain in my right ankle has now spread throughout my body.
My husband has been my caregiver through all this. It took its toll and he fell into caregiver burnout. Rather than ask for help he chose to leave. Caregiver burnout is a serious issue that must be addressed openly – by both parties.
So now, at 55, I am going to have to figure out life on my own with severe disabilities. Am I scared? Out of my wits!
But I’ve also been on the receiving end of an outpouring of love and support that has come from the most unexpected people and has humbled me beyond measure. My faith in God is stronger than ever. My goal now? To help others going through the same thing. Unfortunately there’s lots of us. But, as others have said, NO ONE should EVER have to go through this alone.