How I learned to embrace my Fibromyalgia!

Sounds weird, right? Yes, I have learned to embrace my fibromyalgia since my official diagnosis nine years ago, after having symptoms for at least five years prior.

When I was first diagnosed, after ruling out a plethora of other serious illnesses, with similar symptoms, I heard the words that changed my life “you have Fibromyalgia”. It was the first time I had heard that word. I just stared in shock, and my neurologist at the time did not explain what it was, what to expect, or what all the symptoms were. He only said “it’s a lifelong chronic pain illness”. I had so many questions, and he was in no mood to answer any of them. I was left dumbfounded, speechless, and frightened. My mom was waiting for me outside, and I sat next to her and said “He said I have Fibromyalgia, and I don't know what that is, and he didn't want to explain.” I reassured her and said “we will research it, and find answers, don't worry”. I think a lot of what I said was to calm me, also. But, I knew this was going to completely change my life, and hers.

The Truth about my Anxiety and Fibromyalgia

My anxiety, pain, and fear run high most of the time. I find that somewhere between caregiving for my almost 93-year-old mother with chronic vertigo, my 88-year-old aunt with dementia and my own fibromyalgia, degenerative disc disease, and Meniere’s disease lies the hope that I can feel better physically and emotionally, be more resilient, eat healthier, meditate more, be a better human.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.May 25, 2021Fibromyalgia, anxiety, FibroWarrior, VoicesOfFibroComment

Morning Self-Care Routines for People Dealing with Fibromyalgia

Ivy Kaye is a California-based wellness writer who was diagnosed with fibromyalgia back in high school. After years of battling the chronic illness, she was inspired to help strengthen others who are silently suffering by becoming a voice for them. When she's not researching or writing, you can find her relaxing on her porch swing with her West Highland Terrier, Oliver.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.September 15, 2019Comment

The Important of Pacing Yourself When You Have Fibromyalgia

I imagined myself on this healthy path with no limitations. My body and mind were not together. My mind was enjoying a life with no limits, while my body was experiencing a complete meltdown. I kept pushing the limits of my capabilities.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019 Comment

Learning How To Manage Fibromyalgia and Practice Self-Care

I had to learn how to pace myself, balance, move slower, eat better, think better, take care of myself better, adapt and adjust. The hardest part was, and still is, having my mind and my body on the same channel. I think many of us struggle to maintain our independence, our strength and our dignity.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019Self Care, ManageComment

Passing Storm

While there are moments I am able to pinpoint a certain stressful instance to reason the vicious fibre attack, some times it simply occurs without any provocation; at least, none that I am aware of

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019Comment

How My Life Has Changed

I will continue to fight, always looking for what works and what doesn’t, researching, testing, reaching out, etc. I have slowly learned to “adjust” to the new life while comparing it to and missing my old life. The old life haunts me sometimes, and I miss living pain-free with unlimited energy.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019 Comments

From Today's Vintage Point, Nearly 30 Years Later

From today’s vantage point, nearly 30 years later, I admit there have been unexpected losses, changes, and adjustments in my life. The financial impact was considerable. On the other hand, there have been many resulting events and experiences that have enriched my life as well. One painful change was the need to leave nursing. It took several years to feel capable of re-entering healthcare in a new role as a health educator.

What I've Learned About Having Expectations With Fibromyalgia

Having fibromyalgia can sometimes stop me from living my life to its fullest but I avoid this by letting go of expectations, keeping my spirits high by pacing myself, listening to my body, etc. We may place high expectations on ourselves of feeling better, doing more, of family and friends understanding, etc.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019ExpectationsComment

Why It's Okay to be "Selfish" Because of Fibromyalgia

When I was first diagnosed, I attended all the social events I was invited to, stayed long hours, and paid for it for days. I cleaned my house, ran all errands, etc. I thought I was still Wonder Woman. It took me longer and longer to recuperate from trying to do all things for everyone else and myself.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019Selfish, BlogComment

A Message of Suicide Awareness

Each year, more than 41,000 people die by suicide. Too often, their friends and family find themselves unable to speak openly and honestly about the loss due to the shame and stigma associated with mental health.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.July 7, 2019Suicide, Suicide AwarenessComment

How Fibromyalgia Taught Me the Importance of Self Care by Isabel Diaz

Isabel Diaz is the primary caregiver to her mother who suffers from a chronic illness. Isabel is compassionate about those in need-in need of care, support and love. She is a person living with fibromyalgia and copes through gratitude, writing, meditation, enjoying nature and quiet time.

Fibromyalgia Care Society of America, Inc.April 16, 2019Self Care, Blog, Isabel DiazComment

The Benefits of Hot Yoga by Milly Velez

Mildred Velez is a resident of Newark, NJ. Mildred was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2007. Mildred currently heads the Operations Department of a Nationally recognized Social Service Organization in New York City. In 2015, she founded the Fibromyalgia Care Society of America (FCSA). She is the proud mother of Ashley, Francisco and Justin. Francisco is an Active Duty Marine who also lives with fibromyalgia.