Today was a really chill day, but not by choice I’ve been knocked down by another flare. Last night was rough, with sleep broken every hour. I had to cancel my morning appointment just to get a bit more rest, but I did manage to keep my afternoon one.
This is life with a chronic illness I’ve learned to recognize the warning signs. Stress often triggers what I call “silent flares,” which leave me exhausted without much pain, while food flares are brutal, hitting with extreme pain that can last up to seven days. I’ve even been hospitalized three times for those, though thankfully, not since 2020.
Since mid-last year, I was also diagnosed with pelvic congestive syndrome another chronic condition that seems to work alongside my pancreatitis to make things even harder. It affects so much of my life, from movement and workouts to even just daily tasks. Yet, the doctor I’ve been seeing doesn’t seem willing to help, so I’m getting referred to a new one my third in just over a year. It’s a constant cycle of seeking answers and finding the right support, and honestly, it’s exhausting.
Sometimes I can’t help but feel like I’m not the same person I used to be. I went from being so active working out, running to feeling like I’m just not me anymore. And as much as I try to stay positive, it’s a struggle when the life I want feels out of reach. I know many have it worse, but I’m only human. I’m trying my best.
But I won’t give up. I will keep searching for the right care, hoping for better days, and finding joy where I can. Thank you for being here, for reading, and for understanding.
Trish