Fibromyalgia Warrior

Welcome to this section dedicated to understanding fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and often accompanied by sleep and memory issues. Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects the central nervous system, amplifying painful sensations. While its exact cause remains unknown, factors such as genetics, infections, and physical or emotional trauma may contribute to its development. As someone living with fibromyalgia, I can say that this pesky condition is like a stubborn guest overstaying its welcome in your body. Let me explain. Picture this: You wake up feeling like you've been hit by a truck, and that's on a good day! Fibromyalgia brings its A-game with widespread pain, chronic fatigue, and brain fog that rivals London on a foggy day. Add sleep disturbances into the mix, and you've got yourself a party that never seems to end. 

Ever feel like your brain took a vacation without telling you? Welcome to the world of fibro fog, where remembering your own name can be a victory. Well, interestingly, if you try hard, you remeber everything, correctly and on time...and then you feel drained. You feel drained after a lecture, after a presentation, after a dinner, after grocery shopping, even after sleep! People around you are worried, trying to motivate you going to the doctor's...the same doctor who always tells you "I am sorry that you are feeling this way but there is nothing I can do". Then it is physio and pain management in between writing papers or coding a few lines in your programs. A loud noise triggering your sensitivity...screen light...wait; why am I here?

Let me not chagrin you further...just keep in mind that every time I am writing a paragraph, a paper, giving a lecture, presenting my work, filling an extra line on my CV, answering your email, returning your call, buying you a beer, meeting you for dinner, buying you a gift, cooking a meal, or even smiling to you, I might be putting some great effort if it is one of these difficult days. So smile back, and if I need time, just give it to me wholeheartedly. I will manage every single occassion, big or small, because I am a strong fibro warrior!

Can you tell the difference below? The truth is that not all disabilities are visible...