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I am 30 years old and have fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. I cannot remember a time when I didn't experience daily pain, though I didn't get any sort of medical recognition or a diagnosis until I was 26. I also had awful difficulties with my peers, teachers, colleagues and bosses. They didn't believe that there was anything wrong and didn't want to hear about it if I asked for help. Instead of understanding and assistance, all I found were insults, laughter and dismissal. Unfortunately the negative attitudes I encountered are typical of the experiences of someone with a 'hidden' disability and/or chronic pain.
I have always loved being active, particularly working with horses, clay shooting and exploring new areas of the countryside. Unfortunately my condition got a little worse (partly due to the onset of arthritis) when I was 18 or 19 and I had to 'wind it back' a bit.
Now I have to take it quite easy, working only about 3 1/2 days a week and pacing myself through life. I can no longer horse ride but I haven't stopped trying! I hate the idea of living life in 'shades of grey' and often go out and do things which exhaust me, like partying, dancing, walking too far, working too many hours, etc... because I only have one life and I need to make the most of it. I have to balance my need to live my life with a responsibility to look after my health.
Most people with a hidden, early-onset disability find it hard to find practical support as well, for example benefits, parking badges, etc. It is time that this inequality is addressed. I have, however received help from 'Access to Work' via Jobcentre Plus and this has been excellent in helping me to work.
Keeping busy and engaged is really important in pain management - you need to focus on something other than the illness! One thing I love to do, is to help others and to give a positive message about living with pain. When I heard about Pete's forthcoming show, I made sure that I got in there, to say my piece!
MP3 Listen to me on the Pete Price Show
