by Kate | Dec 14, 2016 | Chronic healing, chronic illness, Disability, joy
Joy isn’t difficult, but it takes some effort to keep it present in our lives. Like tending a fire, we need to tend joy. To burn, fires need heat, fuel and oxygen. They call it “the fire triangle.” The joy triangle? Intention, sensory input and biochemistry. For...
by Kate | Oct 5, 2016 | Chronic healing, chronic illness, Gratitude
This month, I am focusing on appreciating blessings. Sometimes, in the midst of illness, it’s hard to find a way toward gratitude. In a video produced by the International Progressive MS Alliance, Caroline Sincock, a woman diagnosed, as I am, with secondary...
by Kate | Sep 26, 2016 | Chronic healing, chronic illness, Disability, Transformation
(Photo credit: wikiHow) Once again, I am in a season of change with my body. Over the last month, my left hand has become significantly more disabled. I can’t always click the mouse or swipe the iPad. Meanwhile, I feel more breathless and tired on the days when I need...
by Kate | Jul 19, 2016 | Chronic healing, chronic illness, Disability, kind promises, Transformation
“I can’t even watch the news,” she said. “It’s too upsetting. I have to protect myself.” The voice was one of a woman with chronic illness. She was concerned that the upset she felt at the state of the world might affect her health. I understand her concern. Those of...
by Kate | Jun 21, 2016 | Chronic healing, chronic illness, Delight of the day, joy
People exercise in order to make their muscles stronger. I still remember the day the physical therapist shook her head and looked at me sadly, saying “the nerve connections are gone, honey. No amount of exercise will make that leg stronger.” That was 2001. My legs...
by Kate | May 25, 2016 | Chronic healing, chronic illness, Disability, kind promises, monsters, Vulnerability, Weakness
My friend Al, who has multiple sclerosis, went to his physician with some troublesome new symptoms. “Am I feeling this way because I’m aging or is it the MS?” he asked. “Yes,” replied the doctor. Lately, my disability due to MS has increased significantly. I need help...
