Up until a car accident several years ago, I had very little health issues, and even after that, the only issue was being hurt not sick. I have lived a life of blessed wellness—until I approached age 50. Now? I have so many health issues that mostly all I do in my "spare" time (whatever that is) is research all the horrible ways I might have to die or worse yet survive for years in severe suffering. It really is quite the cheerful hobby that is developing: worrying, realizing worrying is a waste of time and energy, reading studies and testimonials, feeling like I might get through things alright, find a horrific story that matches up with my experience that sends me into worrying, rinse and repeat.
Then, I found a support group for my condition that I am learning about, and the people who are willing to spell out their good, bad, and even ugly experiences with this condition are changing my life. I feel empowered with knowledge about something I never knew existed and, frankly, got me afraid of the future, so afraid I felt incredible grief and decision paralysis. Thanks to the support group (and the Mayo Clinic website with clinical studies, etc.), I am now able to understand things instead of want to just hide from the realities, and I feel like I can carry on. What a gift. I will always be thankful for the person who thought to create that group and manage such a vital educational and support community.
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