Preparing for the Day of Dread..or..what most people call Thanksgiving Day

It is time to tackle the one holiday that is most dreaded for those who have chronic illnesses Thanksgiving Day.  The day when you get together we all those people in your life that really don't understand what your going through.  There are those that just wished you would try a little harder. Then those that think you are faking it.  Then there are those others that think you have brought it on yourself so you need to learn to live with it.  The last group is the most important those that understand and support you.

Thanksgiving is about sharing love and being thankful for what you have no matter what cards life has dealt you.  There are some simple steps to take before the big day to ensure you can make it through it.

1. Pack what you can eat or drink to take with you.
2. Take someone that supports you to the event.
3. Let the Host or Hostess know that you will be bringing your own nutrients and it has nothing to do with what they are cooking.
4. Suggest that everyone say thanks for something that they are thankful for.  When it comes your turn say thanks for just being with your friends and family.
5. Don't get mad at yourself if you cant have something that others are having.  
6. Set a time that you will plan on leaving so that you don't get too tired.
7. Most importantly if you wake up on the big day and feel like you just cant do it call and admit you are having a bad day.  Yet, you will get with them another day when you are feeling better.

See what it takes is getting your mind wrapped around the fact that it isn't your fault that you are sick.  Your body did this on its own and you cant miraculous feel better on a magical day.  Enjoy everyday of life that you feel good.  On the ones that you feel bad let your body rest.  

Those that don't understand well don't worry about them.  These are the people that don't matter in the big scheme of things.  The people that understand you are the ones that you should spend your energy on.  If people cannot understand what is going on you have to understand that a lot of that has to do with their own fear.  If they have seen you slowly go downhill then they may see themselves in your reflection.  Their aches and pains may make them wonder if they will end up like you.

For my fellow fighters keep on fighting and remember one day they will figure this out and we will have won.  Until then don't give up hope.  It is okay to rest on bad days,  but on the good days enjoy life to your fullest because you deserve it.    

There is so much more and remember this is something that I live with and am writing from my perspective.  Talk to a doctor if you feel you may have this or any other disease because without proper diagnosis you will never get the treatment you deserve.