Finding My Truth

By Jayme (she/her) Illinois, United States

I have known something was wrong with my body since I was about 16. It ramped up in college, and now that I’m 29, it’s time to seek answers with full force. It’s difficult to explain to people, even doctors, what is going on when I don’t even have a full grasp on it sometimes. I wrote up two full pages of symptoms, and I bet I left some out because I forget easily. I’ve had to beg doctors to run more tests, and I’ve had to get over my fear of needles to do those tests. I’ve dealt with judgment from loved ones, and I’ve even second-guessed my own sanity over all of this.

I found Warrior Connect when I made my own Instagram page for true crime lovers and Spoonies. I needed a place to share my voice without judgment. I don’t know anyone in my personal life that openly talks about their illnesses much. My mom has Crohn's Disease and Hypothyroidism, and my dad has Diabetes; they don’t talk about it often. I feel like I’m alone on an island sometimes, because I am in the middle of my diagnosis journey.

I found my way to a Rheumatologist, and she said the magic words to me: “I think it may be Fibromyalgia.” She isn’t ready to diagnose me yet, but all Spoonies know the feeling of finally having hope that you can put a name to what is going on. What makes it even better, is that my Rheumatologist is a Spoonie with Fibro! It’s been a long journey, but I think I finally found my way to the right person. I want to extend my love to all Spoonies and caretakers. If you’re waiting on a diagnosis, my heart is with you.