You Are NOT Alone
Hi there! My name is Carmen, and I’d like to share with you my journey with chronic illness, offering hope and support.
You Are NOT Alone
Do you know what a Chronic Illness is? Let’s get educated! What Is A Chronic Illness? A chronic illness is defined as a long-lasting health condition that persists for a year or longer and requires ongoing medical attention…
You Are NOT Alone: Navigating Chronic Illnesses Together Understanding Chronic Illnesses. Chronic illnesses are defined as long-lasting health conditions that persist for a year or more and require ongoing medical attention…
My Story
Being recently diagnosed with multiple chronic illnesses has been a deeply challenging journey, one filled with both hardships and personal growth. I want to share my story primarily because, despite having supportive family members who have been incredibly helpful, I often feel alone in experiencing what it’s like to live with constant pain and uncertainty. No one in my immediate family has firsthand experience of living with chronic illness, and that sense of isolation can be difficult to navigate. Through my own journey, I have learned that managing a chronic condition involves more than addressing physical symptoms—it requires tending to mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. I hope that by sharing my experiences, including the strategies, coping mechanisms, and perspectives that have helped me navigate the daily realities of chronic illness, I can provide support, connection, and encouragement to others who may be facing similar struggles.
Timeline
Diagnosis Begins
A brief overview of my situation: it began in 2023, when I underwent surgery for a herniated disc. Unfortunately, my health began to decline shortly afterward. By 2024, my mobility had worsened to the point that I needed to use a walker. In March of 2025, my condition forced me to leave my job, and in July I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). By November, I received additional diagnoses of Celiac disease and POS.
I share my journey to offer hope and understanding. At this time, I am still awaiting further evaluation and potential diagnoses, and I remain hopeful that I will find a physician who can provide effective treatment and help manage the ongoing pain.
New Challenges
Currently, I am struggling to find a community of people who actually know what it is like to live with multiple chronic illnesses that seem to suck the life out of you. Not just that, but also finding a specific doctors who can hopefully help me.
You are NOT Alone
Living with chronic illnesses can feel isolating, but here you’ll find understanding and shared strength.