challenge

Remembering the Challenge

I apologize for the gap in blogs. My last one was in August. The past 4 months have been very difficult as I enter into a menopausal time in my life. Not there yet because you are considered menopausal if you haven’t had a period in a year. Well back in July, I thought being in “menopause” according to my doctor meant not more periods. That has not been the case and my brain condition is better now but has been a challenge.

It was two years ago that I was recovering from a fractured ankle.  I remember how challenging that period of time was in my life.  I had never had a physical challenge previously so it was a new experience for me.  The restrictions I had and the inability to drive (it was my right ankle) gave me a perspective that I had not had before.  I learned much from my experience with a physical challenge despite having an invisible challenge for years.

In January 2016, I was honored to write a post for The Mighty.  I recently reviewed the post and it reminded me of how differently an individual with a visible challenge is treated compared to an individual with an invisible challenge.  The insights I learned helps motivate me to continue to strive to decrease the stigma and discrimination that so often is directed towards those with an invisible challenge.  I share the link to the blog post below.  May it bring insight and awareness to others.  Many blessings to you in 2017.

What Hurting My Ankle Made Me Realize About Having an Invisible Illness

The Cast is Off!

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The cast on my ankle came off this week.  After 10 weeks of physical limitations and no driving, I am grateful to have it off.  Being in the situation that I was, I have a better understanding of how hard it is when you are physically limited.  I can now empathize better and recognize the importance of getting practical support.  I am very appreciative of my family and friends that were able to assist me.  Now with the cast off, the work on rehabilitating my ankle has just begun. 

One thing my recent experience has revealed to me is that having a visible challenge seems more accepted than having an invisible challenge.  The level of outreach and support I received was much greater for my visible disability than for my invisible disability.  Regardless of this, I have learned to always have an attitude of hope and gratitude.  The more that individuals speak out about life challenges, the better understanding there will be.  So I continue to speak out and share my experiences.  I hope you will too.