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dont want to define myself as having fibromyalgia

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Posted 11/3/2010 9:15 PM (GMT 0)
Hi everyone. Just given the diagnosis of fibromyalgia two days ago. After years of pain that could not be explained, it is a relief to have a label for it. When first registering for these forums, I gave myself the nickname of 'fibro2010'... that does not fit me at all. The new challenge of living with the knowledge that I will not get better must be faced head-on. It feels a little overwhelming, and there are a few major life changes my husband and I need to decide on. It will take time to sort everything out. When my mind clears up enough to put my story together, I'll be sure to post it!

There is so much support in here. It has given me strength to move forward, even this morning when it hurt so much to get out of bed.

Also, learning that it is important for me to get a lot of rest is a big help. I simply can not go to bed an hour later than usual in order to finish a job around the house, or study some more. My body usually gives up long before I'm ready to stop working anyway.

Thank you to everyone, for putting this site together, and to all who participate.
Posted 11/3/2010 9:24 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Free Spirit,

I can understand why you wanted to change your name. We don't need to be reminded of this more that we have to. It is kind of hard to live with. But not impossible. You will find ways to distract yourself and pace yourself here so that you can live a productive and fullfilling life. Keep posting when you are ready. Would love to hear your story. Take care our new friend, well old friend with a new name. lol...

Hugs, Karen
Posted 11/3/2010 10:03 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, Free Spirit, and welcome!  I'm so glad you found us and joined the family.  Nope, you are not fibromyalgia.  You are Free Spirit who happens to have fibromyalgia.  And you know what?  You can live a full and enjoyable life with this illness AND it isn't a terminal illness, either.  Your attitude will help you a lot so keep focusing on the good things in your life and how to work around this illness.  It can be done.  I've traveled several times overseas and have done so much while having fibro...and several other illnesses, too.  Just don't let it stop you!

 

Be sure to keep moving because if you sit or lay too much, you will be stiff as a board.  Doing gentle stretching and gentle exercise really does help.  I walk and swim as my exercise. 

 

Be sure to check out Fibro 101...the first thread on the forum.  There are links to good information about fibro and you will learn a lot there.  Don't hesitate to ask questions, either.  We are here to help you.

 

I'm looking forward to getting to know you better.  Hope to hear more from you soon.

 

Sherrine

Posted 11/3/2010 11:48 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Free Spirit! I love the name change. I understand where you are coming from too. I just got my diagnosis in October after dealing with the pain for about 10 years. It does feel great to have a name for the problem. Even if no one else believes it, you know that you are not crazy and something really is wrong. Fibro doesn't have to define who you are. It is just a minor blemish of your physical being.(Minor might be pushing it, but you get the point.lol) The first few weeks seem to be the worst emotionally. At first, it seems to be all you can think about because you are thirsty for knowledge and having to contemplate those major changes to accomodate for the new future you are envisioning. It takes a little creativity and a lot of patience, but you will figure it out. There still hasn't been a day that I haven't thought about it, but atleast my thoughts are more organized, understanding, and positive. I hope the doc gave you some meds. From an earlier post, I remember you saying the doc wanted you to try Savella. I hope you give it a chance. It has really been a blessing in my life. After just a month of treatment I am feeling great and starting to enjoy life again. Try to keep your attitude positive. I know this is a hard skill to master, but it really does help. I am truly happy you found us and I can't wait to hear your story and get to know you better!

Gentle hugs & Lots of Laughter,
Ivey
Posted 11/4/2010 12:17 AM (GMT 0)
Love the name! Sherrine is right, you are not fibro you are free spirit and you happen to have fibro. We have to think about this dd a lot as we go through our day and sometimes it is hard not to think of ourselves as this illness!

Welcome!
Posted 11/4/2010 3:54 PM (GMT 0)
Hi free spirit sorry so late with the greeting but I havent been up to responding to alot of posts this last week. Im feeling better now and just wanted you to know that I am glad you joined us. I do like your nick name and welcome to our family.

Gentle Hugs
Shirley
Posted 11/5/2010 3:04 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Free Spirit,
Welcome to our fibro family feel better soon.

Stacy
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