Happy birthday to us! Last week was the 5 year anniversary of Chronic Rants. And when I look back, it’s hard to believe how much has changed and how much has stayed the same over the last 5 years.
I still have the same symptoms as I did then, it’s just the severity and frequency of various symptoms that has changed. I no longer work full time at an office, but I am trying hard to start a small online business that I can do part time from home. I still encounter all sorts of ableist bullshit, though it’s usually in different ways than before.
I suppose the biggest change is my perspective. 5 years ago I was struggling, but I assumed that I would continue working. I assumed my health would continue to slowly get worse. Little did I know that just a few short months later I would be leaving my job for a “temporary” break that would become permanent. I had no idea my health would get so much worse so fast.
But this blog has also helped to change my perspective. Writing about my illnesses has taught me a lot. Talking to you through emails and comments has taught me more.
I stand up for myself even more than I did before.
I am more aware of other illnesses, other medical systems, other cultures surrounding illness and disability.
There are many chronic illness blogs out there. I read a few before I started writing my own, and I have found many more over these last 5 years. The online communities are so important for all of us.
Now I wonder where I’ll be in another 5 years. Will I have finally found my fur baby? (I’m really hoping that will happen in the next year!) Where will I be living? How will my health be? Will I be able to travel again? Will I be working? Will I be on benefits? Which symptoms will be bothering me the most? Which will be worse? Which will be better? I have so many questions, and all I can do is work to push my life in the direction I want it to go and hope it goes at least a tiny bit according to plan.
Thanks for joining me on this awesome journey!
Chronic Rants 
Happy Five Year Anniversary!
When I look back at the last five years my story is very similar to yours.
Hugs
Thanks Lorna! It’s good to hear from you! How have you been lately? Interesting that it’s such a similar story. I wonder how our next 5 years will go.
I have been much better physically, have been attending the pain clinic physio. However, sadly Sable my beautiful lab had an epileptic fit and died in my arms. I was distraught and very anxious.But feel a bit better now. Sable was cremated and her ashes returned to us for keeping. The vets were wonderful and caring and rang several times to see if I was ok.
Oh Lorna, I’m so sorry about Sable! You were fortunate to have such a sweet, loving companion, and I hope that you can enjoy the many wonderful memories you created together. Even just seeing the photos you emailed me gave me a boost when I needed it. She was a very special pup.
Congratulations on 5 years, CR!
It’s hard to believe it’s been so long, Lady.
Much writing, many changes, much learning, and “We’ve all survived!” as a friend said at Christmas!
Thanks Karen! And thanks for joining me on this unpredictable writing journey. Your friend is very wise 🙂