I Have an Autoimmune Disease. Here’s How I Fight the “Inflamm-aging” It Causes.
My Body’s “Civil War” Was Accelerating My Aging
I have an autoimmune disease, which means my immune system is mistakenly attacking my own body. A functional medicine doctor explained that this creates a state of chronic, body-wide inflammation, which is a major accelerator of the aging process—what some call “inflamm-aging.” My strategy to slow this down is a relentless focus on an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. This includes a whole-foods diet, aggressive stress management, prioritizing sleep, and gentle exercise. My goal is not just to manage my disease, but to actively calm the inflammatory fire that is trying to age me prematurely.
How I Used a “Continuous Glucose Monitor” to Manage My Type 2 Diabetes and Lose Weight.
The Data That Put Me Back in the Driver’s Seat
I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, and I felt powerless. My doctor suggested I try a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). It’s a small sensor I wear on my arm that gives me real-time feedback on my blood sugar levels. The data was a game-changer. I could see exactly how a bowl of oatmeal would cause a huge spike, while a plate of eggs and avocado kept me stable. The CGM put me back in the driver’s seat of my own health. By making data-driven food choices, I was able to get my blood sugar under control and lose 30 pounds.
The “Anti-Arthritis” Diet That Soothed My Aching Joints
I Fought My Joint Pain With My Fork
I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in my thirties, and the joint pain was debilitating. My rheumatologist recommended a powerful medication, but he also stressed the importance of an anti-inflammatory diet. I started following a Mediterranean-style eating plan, rich in fatty fish (for omega-3s), olive oil, colorful vegetables, and spices like turmeric and ginger. I also completely eliminated inflammatory processed foods and sugar. The diet didn’t cure my arthritis, but it has dramatically reduced my daily pain levels and has allowed me to lower the dosage of my medication.
Living with Hashimoto’s: How I Optimized My Thyroid and Got My Energy Back
My Own Immune System Was Attacking My “Engine”
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune disease where my immune system attacks my thyroid gland. I was constantly exhausted, my hair was falling out, and I had terrible brain fog. In addition to taking my thyroid medication, I worked with a doctor to optimize my health. We discovered I had a gluten sensitivity, which was fueling the autoimmune attack. I also started taking supplements like selenium and vitamin D, which are crucial for thyroid function. By addressing the root causes of the inflammation, I was finally able to get my energy and my life back.
The Surprising Link Between My “Heart Condition” and My Cognitive Health
A Healthy Heart Leads to a Healthy Brain
I have a common heart condition called atrial fibrillation. My cardiologist told me something that surprised me: managing my heart health is one of the most important things I can do for my long-term brain health. The brain is an incredibly blood-hungry organ. Any condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently can, over time, deprive the brain of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to thrive. This can increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. My heart medication isn’t just protecting my heart; it’s protecting my mind.
How I Built an “Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle” to Manage My Psoriasis
My Skin Was a Reflection of My Internal Fire
I’ve had psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition, since I was a teenager. For years, I only treated it topically with creams. In my thirties, I learned that my red, flaky skin was just an external manifestation of my internal inflammation. I decided to build a full, “anti-inflammatory lifestyle.” I changed my diet, I started a daily meditation practice to manage my stress, and I prioritized my sleep. The result? My skin has never been clearer. I learned that you can’t just treat the smoke; you have to put out the underlying fire.
The “Mind-Body” Techniques I Use to Cope with Chronic Pain
I Learned to Turn Down the “Volume” on My Pain
Living with chronic pain is not just a physical battle; it’s a mental one. I’ve learned to use “mind-body” techniques to manage my perception of pain. My favorite is a guided meditation practice called “body scan.” I lie down and bring my awareness to the painful area, but instead of tensing up against it, I try to breathe into it and soften around it. This practice doesn’t make the physical sensation disappear, but it helps to turn down the brain’s “volume knob” on the pain, making it much more manageable.
I Have PCOS. This Is the Diet and Exercise Plan That Finally Worked.
I Had to Treat My “Insulin Resistance,” Not Just My Weight
I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in my twenties and struggled for years with weight gain and irregular cycles. The diet and exercise plan that finally worked was one that focused on my underlying “insulin resistance.” For my diet, this meant a low-glycemic, whole-foods approach with a focus on protein and healthy fats to keep my blood sugar stable. For exercise, strength training was key, as building muscle helps to improve insulin sensitivity. It wasn’t about “eating less and moving more”; it was about eating and moving smarter.
How to Advocate for Yourself with Doctors When You Have a Chronic Illness
I Became the CEO of My Own Health
When you have a chronic illness, you often see multiple specialists who don’t talk to each other. I learned that I had to become the CEO of my own “health corporation.” I keep a binder with all my lab results and consultation notes. Before every appointment, I write down a clear, bulleted list of my questions and concerns. I am not a passive patient; I am an active, informed partner in my own care. I’ve learned that you have to be your own best advocate in a complicated medical system.
The Best Supplements That Support My “Autoimmune Protocol” Lifestyle
The “Extra Credit” for My Gut and Immune System
While following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet was the biggest factor in managing my condition, I added a few key supplements for extra support. I take a high-quality fish oil for its powerful anti-inflammatory omega-3s. I take Vitamin D, as it’s crucial for immune regulation. And I take a soil-based probiotic to help support a healthy gut microbiome, which is often compromised in autoimmune conditions. These aren’t magic pills, but they are the “extra credit” that supports the foundational work of my diet and lifestyle.
The “Gentle” Fitness Routine I Use to Stay Active Without Causing a Flare-Up
I Traded “High-Intensity” for “High-Consistency”
I have an autoimmune condition that is often triggered by intense physical stress. I had to let go of my old “go hard or go home” fitness mentality. I’ve created a “gentle” fitness routine that keeps me active without causing a flare-up. It includes daily walks, gentle yoga and mobility work, and two to three sessions a week of moderate strength training. I’ve learned that for my body, consistency with gentle movement is far more beneficial than sporadic, high-intensity workouts that leave me drained and inflamed.
I Focused on My “Gut Health” to Improve My Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms.
The Root of My Joint Pain Was in My Digestive Tract
I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). A functional medicine doctor explained the strong link between gut health and autoimmunity. She suggested I focus on healing my “leaky gut” to calm down my overactive immune system. I went on a strict anti-inflammatory diet, removing gluten and dairy. I started drinking bone broth and taking L-glutamine to help repair my gut lining. The results were astounding. As my gut health improved, my joint pain, stiffness, and swelling significantly decreased.
How to Navigate the “Mental and Emotional” Toll of a Chronic Diagnosis
I Was Grieving the “Healthy” Person I Used to Be
Getting a chronic illness diagnosis in my thirties was a huge emotional blow. I wasn’t just dealing with the physical symptoms; I was grieving the loss of the healthy, carefree person I used to be. I had to let myself be sad and angry. I found a therapist who specializes in chronic illness, and I joined a support group. Learning to accept my “new normal” and to find joy and purpose within my new limitations has been the hardest, and most important, part of my journey.
The Best “Sleep Hygiene” Practices for People with Chronic Pain
Good Sleep Is My Best Pain Reliever
When you’re in chronic pain, sleep can feel impossible. But sleep is also when your body repairs itself, so it’s crucial. I’ve become militant about my “sleep hygiene.” I have a consistent bedtime and wake-time. My bedroom is a cool, dark, quiet sanctuary. I have a relaxing “wind-down” routine that includes a warm Epsom salt bath to soothe my muscles. I’ve found that on the nights when I can get a good, restorative night’s sleep, my pain levels the next day are always, without fail, much lower.
I Tracked My “Symptoms” and “Lifestyle Factors” to Find My Triggers.
I Became a “Data Detective” of My Own Body
I was struggling to figure out what was causing my autoimmune flares. I started a detailed journal. Every day, I tracked my symptoms on a scale of 1 to 10. I also tracked my sleep, my stress levels, what I ate, and my activity. After a month, I had a rich set of data. The patterns were clear. My symptoms always flared up after a night of poor sleep, a particularly stressful day at work, or after I ate gluten. This “data detective” work empowered me to identify and manage my personal triggers.
The “Community” Factor: Why Finding Others with Your Condition is a Lifeline
The People Who Just “Get It”
Living with a chronic illness can be incredibly isolating. My friends and family were supportive, but they didn’t truly “get it.” I found an online support group for people with my specific condition. It was a lifeline. For the first time, I could talk to people who understood the specific pains, frustrations, and fears I was experiencing. The shared understanding and the practical, “been-there-done-that” advice from this community has been one of the most valuable resources in managing my health.
How I Manage “Brain Fog” Associated with My Chronic Condition
My Brain Felt Like It Was Wading Through Mud
One of the most frustrating symptoms of my autoimmune disease is “brain fog.” It feels like my brain is wrapped in a thick, cottony fog. I’ve found a few strategies that help. First, a diet low in sugar and processed foods is non-negotiable, as blood sugar swings make it much worse. Second, moderate exercise, like a brisk walk, can help to clear the fog. And third, I have to be ruthless about “monotasking.” When the fog is bad, I can only do one single thing at a time.
The “Low-Dose Naltrexone” (LDN) Story: My Experience
The “Off-Label” Drug That Calmed My Immune System
My functional medicine doctor suggested I try Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for my autoimmune condition. It’s an old, generic drug that, at a very low dose, has been shown to have a surprising immunomodulating effect. It’s an “off-label” use, so many conventional doctors aren’t familiar with it. I was skeptical, but I tried it. After a few months on a tiny, daily dose, I noticed a significant reduction in my overall inflammation and my flare-ups. For me, it has been a safe, inexpensive, and effective tool.
How to Talk to Your Family and Friends About Your “Invisible” Illness
“But You Don’t Look Sick!”
I have a chronic illness that is largely “invisible.” I often look fine on the outside, even when I am in significant pain or am exhausted. It can be hard for friends and family to understand. I’ve learned to be very direct and to use analogies. I’ll say, “Imagine your phone battery is only at 20%. That’s my energy level today. I can do one or two things, but then I’ll be completely drained.” This helps them to understand my limitations in a concrete way.
The Best “Stress Management” Tools That Don’t Require a Lot of Energy
Calming My Nerves When My Body Is Tired
When you have a chronic illness, you often don’t have the energy for a long yoga class or an intense workout to manage your stress. I’ve found a few “low-energy” stress management tools. A simple, 5-minute guided breathing exercise on my phone. Listening to a calming, instrumental playlist. The practice of “palming,” where I gently cup my warm hands over my eyes for a minute. These are all simple, accessible ways to calm my nervous system without requiring a lot of physical energy.
I Crafted a “Hope” Toolkit for the Hard Days.
My Emergency Kit for My Soul
Living with a chronic illness can have some very dark days. I’ve created a “hope” toolkit, an emergency kit for my soul that I turn to when I’m feeling hopeless. It’s a small box that contains a few key things: a letter I wrote to myself on a good day, reminding me that the bad days will pass. A list of my favorite funny movie clips on YouTube. The phone number of my most supportive friend. And a piece of very dark chocolate. It’s a small, tangible collection of things that are guaranteed to give me a small lift.
The Surprising Role of “Environmental Toxins” in Chronic Disease
My House Was Making Me Sick
I was doing everything right with my diet and lifestyle, but my autoimmune symptoms were still flaring. I started to look at my environment. I learned that common household items—from my cleaning products to my plastic food containers to my scented candles—can contain chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system and trigger inflammation. I did a “low-toxin” makeover of my home, and I was surprised by how much my symptoms improved. I realized that my environment was a significant, and overlooked, piece of my health puzzle.
How I Work with a “Functional Medicine” Doctor Alongside My Specialist
My “Why” Doctor and My “What” Doctor
I have a “team” approach to my healthcare. I see my rheumatologist, who is my “what” doctor. She is an expert in my specific disease and manages my prescription medications. I also see a functional medicine doctor, who is my “why” doctor. She helps me to investigate the underlying root causes of my inflammation, like my gut health and my diet. The combination of the best of conventional medicine and a functional, root-cause approach has given me the most comprehensive and effective care.
The “Food as Medicine” Approach I Took for My Crohn’s Disease
I Healed My Gut With My Grocery List
I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel disease. While I take medication, the most powerful tool in my healing has been a “food as medicine” approach. I worked with a dietitian to go on a specific diet that eliminates my personal trigger foods and focuses on easy-to-digest, gut-healing ingredients. My diet is not about restriction; it’s a targeted, therapeutic intervention. I have learned that the food I put in my body every day can either be a source of inflammation or a powerful tool for healing.
How to Pace Yourself and Avoid the “Push and Crash” Cycle
I Learned to Be a “Tortoise,” Not a “Hare”
When I have a “good day” with my chronic illness, my instinct is to do everything I’ve been wanting to do. I’ll clean the whole house and run all my errands. The result? I completely “crash” and am useless for the next three days. I’ve had to learn the art of “pacing.” It means learning to be a tortoise, not a hare. On my good days, I have to intentionally hold back and conserve my energy, so I don’t have to pay for it later. It’s a frustrating but necessary discipline.
The Best “Assistive” Devices and Tools That Make My Life Easier
The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Living with chronic joint pain has taught me the value of good “assistive” devices. These aren’t just for the elderly. I have a long-handled shoehorn so I don’t have to bend over. I have a simple “jar opener” for my kitchen that gives me extra leverage. I have an ergonomic keyboard and mouse for my computer. These small, inexpensive tools reduce the daily strain on my joints and help me to conserve my energy for the things that matter most.
I Explored “Alternative Therapies” (Acupuncture, Massage) to Complement My Treatment.
My “And” Approach to Healthcare
I use an “and” approach to my health. I take my prescription medication and I see an acupuncturist for my pain. I follow my doctor’s advice and I get a weekly massage to help with my muscle stiffness. These “alternative” therapies are not a replacement for my conventional medical treatment, but they are a powerful complement to it. They help to manage my symptoms, reduce my stress, and improve my overall quality of life.
The Financial Burden of Chronic Illness and How I Manage It
My Health Is My Biggest, Unplanned Expense
A chronic illness is not just a physical burden; it’s a huge financial one. There are the co-pays, the medications, the specialist visits. There’s also the lost income from days I can’t work. I’ve had to become a master of my own medical finances. I use my Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for my expenses with pre-tax dollars. I keep meticulous records and have learned how to appeal a denied insurance claim. Managing the financial side of my illness is a necessary, if unwelcome, part of my treatment plan.
How to Celebrate the “Small Wins” When You’re Chronically Ill
My “Win” for the Day Was Taking a Shower
When you have a chronic illness, you have to redefine “success.” Some days, just getting out of bed and taking a shower is a huge “win.” I’ve learned to celebrate these small victories. I keep a journal where I write down one small thing I was able to accomplish or enjoy each day. This practice helps me to focus on what I can do, instead of what I can’t. It’s a way of cultivating gratitude and finding joy, even on the hard days.
The “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy” (ACT) Principles That Changed My Mindset
I Stopped Fighting With Reality
I was so angry and frustrated about my chronic diagnosis. A therapist introduced me to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The core idea is not to try to change or eliminate your painful feelings, but to learn to accept them and to live a rich, meaningful life alongside them. It’s about accepting what is out of your personal control, while committing to action that improves and enriches your life. This mindset shift—from fighting reality to accepting it—has brought me an immense amount of peace.
I Learned to “Reframe” My Identity Beyond My Diagnosis.
I Am a Person With a Disease, Not a “Sick Person”
After my diagnosis, I started to see myself as a “sick person.” My illness became my entire identity. It was all I talked about. My therapist helped me to reframe this. She said, “You are not your illness. You are a whole person who happens to have an illness.” This was a crucial distinction. I started to consciously focus on the other parts of my identity: I am a wife, a friend, an artist, a dog-lover. My diagnosis is a part of my story, but it is not the whole story.
The Best Resources (Podcasts, Books, Non-Profits) for My Condition
I Became an Expert on Myself
When I was diagnosed, I decided to become the world’s leading expert on my own condition. I found the major non-profit organization for my disease, which had a wealth of information and resources. I found podcasts where doctors and patients discussed the latest research. I read books written by people who were thriving with the same diagnosis. Arming myself with knowledge and connecting with these resources has made me feel empowered and has helped me to find the best possible strategies for managing my health.
How to Travel Safely and Comfortably with a Chronic Illness
My “Travel Toolkit” for a Flare-Free Trip
I love to travel, but my chronic illness makes it a challenge. I’ve developed a “travel toolkit” and a set of rules. I always book an aisle seat near the bathroom. I pack all my medications in my carry-on bag, along with a doctor’s note. I pack my own healthy snacks so I’m not reliant on airport food. I build in a full “rest day” after a long flight to allow my body to recover. And I am realistic about my itinerary, choosing quality over quantity. A little extra planning makes all the difference.
The “Modified” Exercise Plan That Keeps Me Strong
I Can’t Do What I Used To, But I Can Still Do a Lot
My arthritis means I can no longer do high-impact exercises like running. I was depressed about it at first. Then I worked with a physical therapist to create a “modified” exercise plan. I can’t run, but I can use the elliptical or the swimming pool for my cardio. I can’t do heavy back squats, but I can do goblet squats and lunges. There is always a modification. The key is to let go of your ego, to listen to your body, and to find a way to keep moving that is challenging but not damaging.
I Created a “Symptom-Soothing” Emergency Kit.
My “Go-Bag” for a Bad Day
I have a small “emergency kit” that I keep with me for when I have a sudden flare-up of my symptoms. It’s my “go-bag” for a bad day. It contains a small bottle of my pain medication. It has a topical CBD cream for my joints. It has a soothing herbal tea bag. And it has a pair of noise-canceling headphones and a link to a guided meditation on my phone. Just knowing that I have this little toolkit with me gives me a sense of security and control.
The Importance of “Grieving” Your Old Life to Embrace Your New One
I Had to Say Goodbye to My “Healthy” Self
When you get a chronic diagnosis, you experience a real loss. You lose the healthy, carefree person you once were. A counselor helped me to see that I needed to allow myself to grieve that loss. It was okay to be sad and angry about the life I thought I was going to have. Grieving is not about being stuck in the past; it’s the necessary emotional process that allows you to eventually accept your new reality and to start building a joyful and meaningful life within your new set of circumstances.
How I Explain My Dietary Needs at Social Gatherings Without Being Awkward
My Simple, Low-Drama Script
I have to follow a very specific diet for my autoimmune disease, which can be awkward at dinner parties. I’ve developed a simple, low-drama script. Before I go, I’ll text the host and say, “I’m so excited for dinner! Just a heads-up, I have a few medical dietary restrictions, so I’m going to bring a simple dish to share that I know I can eat. Please don’t go to any extra trouble for me!” This takes all the pressure off the host and allows me to handle my own needs without making a big deal out of it.
The Best “Journaling” Prompts for Processing a Chronic Condition
My Pen Is My Therapist
Journaling has been an incredible tool for processing the emotional side of my chronic illness. A few prompts have been particularly helpful. “What is one thing my illness has taught me?” “Write a letter to a specific body part that is in pain.” “What is one small moment of beauty or joy I experienced today, despite my symptoms?” And “What am I able to do today that I am grateful for?” These prompts help me to find meaning, to practice gratitude, and to process my complex feelings.
I Found a “Purpose” in My Pain by Helping Others.
My Mess Became My Message
For a long time, my chronic illness felt like a meaningless burden. I started a small blog to share my story and the things I was learning. I started getting messages from other people with the same condition, thanking me for making them feel less alone. My mess had become my message. I found a deep sense of purpose in using my own painful experience to help and support others on the same journey. The pain didn’t go away, but it was transformed when it became a source of connection and service.
The Link Between “Trauma” and the Onset of Autoimmune Disease
My Body Was Reacting to a Past Threat
New research is showing a strong link between childhood trauma and the later onset of autoimmune disease. The theory is that early-life trauma can dysregulate the developing immune system and create a state of chronic inflammation that can persist for decades. For me, understanding this link was a huge “aha” moment. My autoimmune disease wasn’t a random stroke of bad luck; it was, in part, a long-term, physiological echo of the trauma my body had endured as a child. Healing my trauma became a key part of healing my body.
How I Optimize My “Mitochondrial Health” to Fight Fatigue
I’m Trying to Build a Better “Engine” for My Cells
Chronic fatigue is a major symptom of my illness. A functional medicine doctor told me to focus on my “mitochondrial health.” Our mitochondria are the tiny “engines” inside our cells that produce energy. To support them, I focus on a diet rich in antioxidants. I take supplements like Coenzyme Q10 and PQQ, which are crucial for mitochondrial function. And I do a mix of gentle cardio and strength training, which can actually signal my body to create new, healthy mitochondria.
The “Genetic” Component of My Disease and What It Means for My Family
My Genes Loaded the Gun, My Lifestyle Pulled the Trigger
I learned that I have a genetic predisposition for my autoimmune disease. It runs in my family. But a geneticist explained it to me like this: “Your genes may have loaded the gun, but your lifestyle and your environment are what pull the trigger.” This was empowering. It meant that I was not a victim of my own DNA. It also meant that I could have open conversations with my children about their potential risk and the importance of an anti-inflammatory lifestyle to keep their own “guns” from firing.
I Tried a “Red Light Therapy” Device for My Inflammation.
The Healing Power of a Specific Wavelength of Light
I was intrigued by the science of red light therapy for reducing inflammation and pain. I invested in a small, at-home red light therapy panel. I use it for 10-15 minutes every day on my most painful joints. The specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light are thought to penetrate the skin and to improve the function of our mitochondria, which can help to lower inflammation at a cellular level. I have found it to be a safe, non-invasive, and surprisingly effective tool for managing my daily aches and pains.
How to Navigate the “Medical System” and Get the Best Care
Be Prepared, Be Persistent, Be Polite
The medical system can be a frustrating maze. I’ve learned three rules for getting the best possible care. 1) Be Prepared: Go into every appointment with a written list of your questions and a log of your symptoms. 2) Be Persistent: If you feel like your concerns are not being heard, don’t be afraid to get a second or even a third opinion. And 3) Be Polite: You will always get better care from nurses and staff if you treat them with kindness and respect, even when you are frustrated.
The “Radical Rest” Philosophy: Why It’s Productive, Not Lazy
My Body’s “To-Do” List Is Happening While I’m on the Couch
When I’m in a flare-up, I used to feel so guilty for spending a day on the couch. I felt lazy and unproductive. I’ve adopted a philosophy of “radical rest.” I now understand that when I am resting, my body is incredibly busy. It is working hard to repair tissue, to calm inflammation, and to heal. Rest is not the absence of activity; it is a different, and equally important, kind of activity. It is the most productive thing I can do for my health.
I Built a “Support Team” (Doctors, Therapists, Coaches, Friends).
It Takes a Village to Manage a Chronic Illness
I realized I couldn’t manage my chronic illness alone. I have consciously built a “support team.” My team includes my rheumatologist (my medical expert), my physical therapist (my movement coach), my therapist (for the mental and emotional toll), and a small circle of trusted friends (my emotional support system). Having this multi-disciplinary team of people in my corner, each with a different role, has been absolutely essential. It truly takes a village.
How to Find “Joy” and “Beauty” Even on High-Pain Days
The Practice of “Micro-Joys”
On days when my pain is very high, it can be hard to feel anything but misery. I’ve started a practice of hunting for “micro-joys.” It’s about finding one, small, beautiful thing, even on a hard day. It could be the taste of my morning tea. It could be the feeling of a soft blanket. It could be watching a bird outside my window. This practice of actively looking for tiny moments of beauty and pleasure doesn’t make the pain go away, but it does remind me that pain is not the only thing that is present.
The Future of Treatment for My Condition: What I’m Hopeful For
The Science Is Moving So Fast
Living with a chronic illness can feel hopeless sometimes. To combat this, I make a point to stay up-to-date on the latest research for my condition. I follow the major research foundations on social media. I read about the new biologic drugs that are in the pipeline and the exciting advances in gene therapy. The science is moving at an incredible pace. Focusing on the future and the amazing breakthroughs that are on the horizon gives me a powerful and much-needed sense of hope.
I Wrote a “Letter to My Body,” Forgiving It and Thanking It.
An Apology and a Thank You Note to My Oldest Friend
I felt so angry at my body for “betraying” me with a chronic illness. My therapist suggested I write it a letter. I wrote, “Dear Body, I am sorry for all the times I have been angry at you and have taken you for granted. Thank you for carrying me, for fighting for me, and for doing your best every single day in very difficult circumstances. We are a team.” This simple act of writing a letter of forgiveness and gratitude to my own body was a profoundly healing and compassionate exercise.
My “Thrive, Not Just Survive” Manifesto for Living with Chronic Illness
I Am the CEO of My Own Well-Being
I wrote a manifesto that I read on my hard days. It says: “My illness is a part of my story, but it will not be the whole story. I will not be a passive victim; I will be the active CEO of my own well-being. I will focus on what I can control: my diet, my stress, my mindset. I will grieve my losses, but I will also hunt for joy. My goal is not to just survive with this condition; my goal is to figure out how to thrive, in spite of it.”