- Fibromyalgia
- Interviews
Stacy's interview
How did all start?
I'm not sure exactly when I developed fibromyalgia, but have had a lot of childhood trauma and also accidents, a bad fall, and a lot of surgeries.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I didn't get a true diagnosis until around 2015. I have been in pain for many years before the diagnosis.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I have been treated through physical therapy, pain management. Pain management included sacroiliac joint injections, which brought some relief of my pain in that area. I found that aqua therapy is helpful as well.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Pain medicine has been the most useful form of treatment for me. Also, stretching, and walking as much as you can tolerate.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
My difficulties are physical and emotional. it's tough to come to terms that the strength I once had isn't there anymore. I cannot be active like I once was. Some days are harder than others.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
My social life isn't very active in person but I socialize through groups on social media outlets. That helps me connect with people with similar disorders and it's an outlet.
What things have you stopped doing?
Stopped taking very long walks like hiking etc..Stopped driving a car. Stopped being active like I was once easily able to do.
What do you think about the future?
I'm doing my best to think positive about the future and my illness. Everyday has it's own challenges.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
1988 was one, as it was the birth of my beautiful daughter. There have been many great years but many sad ones too.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I would like to work out more, walk my dog, run with my dog! I would love to be able to work, even if just part time. Would love to travel.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
I've had a very interesting life, not a bouquet of roses by any means, but also very joyous moments too.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Stay positive, deep breathe and don't sweat the small stuff. Enjoy nature, animals and your loved ones.
