‘The Reality Of…’ is a series with the aim to raise awareness of disabilities, illnesses, impairments, etc. Also, educating others about the barriers that disabled people and carers face. I hope this series helps to break down misconceptions and stigma.
Meet Tanya
Hi, my name is Tanya and I am currently studying in London!
I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, however, I am still seeing specialists to rule out any other conditions whilst I am waiting to have a management plan put into place.
Common Symptoms
The main two symptoms that impact my daily life are fatigue and pain. Over the years I am extremely lucky that they have become easier to manage as I have become more accustomed to my flares and triggers. The pain and fatigue are usually present every day however each day and even hour is different, and it is truly unpredictable.
How They Affect Me
Because they are so unpredictable, sometimes making plans in advance can be a struggle as I never truly know how I will be feeling that day or at that exact time. It can definitely be difficult balancing taking care of myself and doing the things I want to do. It also does take a toll mentally when and if I feel that I am having to compromise socialising to preserve my energy for another event or activity.
Learning To Adapt
To be honest, my conditions have helped me grow into the best version of myself! What has been so helpful to me is to really keep in touch with my feelings and emotions and knowing when and where my limits are; this has not just helped my physical health but also my mental health.
Being more vocal about my experiences to others has really helped me build a support system around me and help others develop empathy in a way they may have never thought of before.
Having a platform, my blog, to be able to share my journey, the highs and the lows has been so helpful as it has helped me develop my own unique voice. Some of the most inspiring and lovely people are those who I have met through my advocacy which would not have been possible without my health being the way it is.
If I was to pinpoint the thing that has helped me the most, I would say it has been self-acceptance and love. Without a doubt, it is difficult to do that even with perfect health, but being able to persevere through everything that I do and use it to make some kind of social impact makes me so proud of being who I am and that includes my health conditions.
Have I Changed As A Person?
I have become much more aware, in tune with myself and with others. I always have had a one-dimensional view of life growing up but it was when I developed my health conditions that my mind truly blossomed. I think that if I hadn’t gone through what I have with my health then I would not be the person I am today, I would not be doing what I am doing right now (even writing this), and would not be as happy and content as I am today.
My Favourite Superhero
I am not really one who is aware of superheroes or villains but can I say my favourite superhero is me? That’s because I am so proud and in awe of coming so far and I think that deserves a pat on the back!
If you would like to stay up to date with Tanya, you can find her on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Youtube!
