Fibro Warrior Wednesday – Beverly D

Beverly D, is another member of my local support group. We have such a wonderful group of people in our group, with wide varieties of experience. She was diagnosed in 1998

What lead up to your diagnosis (symptoms, dr visits, etc)?
I had severe headaches, joint pain, confusion, muscle pain, insomnia, extreme fatigue, stomach pains and upset. I went to 18 different doctors over a 5 year period and they “found” nothing.

How long had you been dealing with various symptoms before you were finally diagnosed?
Now that I look back, I believe I have been symptomatic since I was 9 years old. There was a definite trauma: I was raped as a child at 6 and started my periods at the age of 9. From that point, all I can ever recall is being in pain when none of my other friends were experiencing the same. I thought it was my punishment for the rape because I never told anyone and the rapist was a family friend. It was my shame; I am so not bearing that shame anymore for being sexually violated by a criminal. But, as a child, what else was left for me to do.
What was your life like at the time?
I was married with 2 kids in high school and one living on his own. I was working at the time as a Program Analyst, in Government Contracts Management.

How did your family initially handle your illness?
They were clueless, thought I was crazy, and suggested I see a counselor. I did so, just to hold on to my sanity.

How has your family/ work situation changed since Fibromyalgia entered your life?
I have since retired from federal service because I could not function at what I felt was a competent level. I was a program analyst whose job involved high dollar government contracts management. I also suffered several Trans Ischemic Attacks (TIA) which left me with a few deficits. The Fibro fog was horrendous. I now run a small business from my home, paint and craft for enjoyment and do Yoga for relaxation.

What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of Fibro?
People not understanding…that I hurt all the time but at different levels throughout the day. I admit, I LOOK GREAT, but we know everybody says “you don’t look sick”.

Do you have any other co-existing conditions? If so, what are they and how do they impact your Fibromyalgia?
I mentioned the TIAs…I also have asthma, Hypertension, Diabetes, minor heart valve issues and Depression with occasional anxiety. The Fibro seems to feed off of the Depression. I have great days and then I have Depression which I feel physically, as well as mentally. If I am flaring, my blood pressure is spiked.

What (if anything) have you found/ done that has improved your symptoms?
I meditate. I relax, take a soothing bath in Epson salts, slow down, do less, massage therapy and as a last resort, I take prescription pain medicines.

What is the best advice you’ve received regarding Fibromyalgia?
It’s not your fault! If you can move, move, and if you can’t move, rest. Don’t feel guilty.

What was the worst advice that you followed?
Believing that there wasn’t really something wrong with me. One doctor suggested I get a hobby! That I just needed more to do. You can’t print the words I used on my follow-up visit to his office. 🙂

Are you a Fibro Warrior? I’d love to share your story here. If you are willing to share your story, please email me.