Life with Fibromyalgia

Time has gone so quickly since last year. I returned to work last October 2023 even though I still didn’t have my fibromyalgia under control, but needed the money. Can’t live on fresh air. As soon as I went back, three long days of standing all day. Only meant to be one. I honestly don’t know how I did it. I’d get home and collapse onto the sofa. My whole body feeling like it was on fire, especially my feet. My back would be in spasm and I would just feel like crying. After taking my painkillers, a large mug of tea and a hot water bottle on my back I would start to feel slightly human again. Luckily my husband has learnt how to cook over the years so he often helps out with meals.

I continued to work, lots of hours, especially with Christmas on its way. I worked in a Card Shop so we sold loads of Christmas cards, wrapping paper, tags, bows, gifts and more. My fibromyalgia was getting worse, having to take more painkillers, my days off spent in bed. Eventually with Christmas getting nearer and so much to do I think adrenaline and energy drinks kept me going. I love Christmas, it’s my favourite time of year but I was struggling physically and mentally. Got through it but didn’t enjoy it as much. Didn’t get all my decorations out, didn’t do as much as I would have liked. Still nice to spend time with family.

In January I had a week booked off and spent most of it in bed. Went back to work and full on with Valentine’s Day on the horizon. Busy again, kept going, then quick turn around for Mother’s Day. The day after I got vertigo, never had it before, awful, room spinning, not nice. Off work the rest of the week and then returned. I think I managed a couple of days and my body just said no more. I was signed off sick by my doctor. Eventually I had no choice but to hand in my notice and left August the 9th. I now regret pushing myself too far. I should have listened to my body. My health should have come first.

I don’t know what I’m going to do for employment now. I still have a lot of bad days, I have to learn not to overdo it. Rest when I need to. Sometimes this isn’t always possible. Also I’m not the type of person who likes doing nothing, so when I have to take to my bed then I’m not feeling good. I hate asking for help even when the housework is mounting up and the ironing pile is growing at an alarming rate. I’m hoping this Autumn I can catch up a bit. Just take one day at a time.