How has Sjögren's affected your life (either physically, emotionally, financially)?:
Fatigue, brain fog, and frequent doctor visits drain my batteries much faster than those without chronic invisible illness. It takes me so much longer to recharge, I simply step left foot, right foot, breathe during my 3 hour walks. I struggle and I'm determined to keep my exercise routine.
How has connecting with the Sjögren's community or others living with Sjögren's Disease affected your journey with SjD?:
My Sjögren's Foundation membership keeps me in the loop on ways to thrive and live fulfilling life often by managing symptoms, and prioritizing self care.
Where/who do you go to for support with Sjögren's?:
I feel supported joining my once a month Sjögrens Boston and Beyond support group meetings. My Rheumatology visits are helpful and very important to discuss health issues and treatments.
Please finish the following sentence: "Sjögren's has taught me...":
To never leave my house without drinking water, lip balm, eye drops, lozenges, inhaler and lotion.
What do you wish people knew about your Sjögren’s?:
Most people don't understand that Sjögren's is a hidden disability. Many friends and family don't quite understand why Sjögren's patients avoid human interaction for the safety of our compromised weak autoimmune health condition.
What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed?:
Build a strong support system through patient groups, and continue to communicate with your doctors.
What does it mean to "thrive" while living with Sjögren's?:
Avoid stress, and embrace yourself in activities that bring joy.
How do you incorporate self-care with managing Sjögren's?:
Gradually build a routine that fits your needs and preferences. I enjoy lap swim three days a week, relax in sauna, walk 3 miles, chair yoga, take naps and I joined a stretch class.
What inspires you to keep going on hard days?:
During hard days, I love putting 1000 piece puzzles together, painting and embroidery to relax my mind.
What’s your best Sjögren’s tip?:
Resting is healing.
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Click Here to Learn More About Sjögren's Awareness Month
How has Sjögren's affected your life (either physically, emotionally, financially)?:
Fatigue, brain fog, and frequent doctor visits drain my batteries much faster than those without chronic invisible illness. It takes me so much longer to recharge, I simply step left foot, right foot, breathe during my 3 hour walks. I struggle and I'm determined to keep my exercise routine.
How has connecting with the Sjögren's community or others living with Sjögren's Disease affected your journey with SjD?:
My Sjögren's Foundation membership keeps me in the loop on ways to thrive and live fulfilling life often by managing symptoms, and prioritizing self care.
Where/who do you go to for support with Sjögren's?:
I feel supported joining my once a month Sjögrens Boston and Beyond support group meetings. My Rheumatology visits are helpful and very important to discuss health issues and treatments.
Please finish the following sentence: "Sjögren's has taught me...":
To never leave my house without drinking water, lip balm, eye drops, lozenges, inhaler and lotion.
What do you wish people knew about your Sjögren’s?:
Most people don't understand that Sjögren's is a hidden disability. Many friends and family don't quite understand why Sjögren's patients avoid human interaction for the safety of our compromised weak autoimmune health condition.
What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed?:
Build a strong support system through patient groups, and continue to communicate with your doctors.
What does it mean to "thrive" while living with Sjögren's?:
Avoid stress, and embrace yourself in activities that bring joy.
How do you incorporate self-care with managing Sjögren's?:
Gradually build a routine that fits your needs and preferences. I enjoy lap swim three days a week, relax in sauna, walk 3 miles, chair yoga, take naps and I joined a stretch class.
What inspires you to keep going on hard days?:
During hard days, I love putting 1000 piece puzzles together, painting and embroidery to relax my mind.
What’s your best Sjögren’s tip?:
Resting is healing.
Click Here to Return to Stories
Click Here to Learn More About Sjögren's Awareness Month