What Important Life Lesson Thyroid Disease Taught You
I was very athletic, and very healthy, and, to be honest, I always thought people who complained about aches and pains, or being tired, or overweight, were just whiners or lazy. In particular, I was definitely not sympathetic to my Gran, who has severe arthritis, but still gets around pretty well. But after developing Hashimoto's disease, even after treatment, I've been dealing with a stubborn extra 20 pounds, and very sore joints, and I get so cold all the time that I live in a sweater year-round. What I've learned is to have consideration and understanding for the people around me, and to learn from them.
How Has This Lesson Changed Your Life?
I am definitely much more empathetic and understanding about the people in my life who have physical struggles, and even about people on the street. I think before, I'd have looked at an overweight person and looked down at them, and now, I am much more likely to think, 'Hmmm, I wonder if she's got a thyroid condition." And I now realize how strong my Gran is, as she is always in pain with her arthritis and yet she gets out there and lives her life, and has a good time. She's become my role model for how to really tackle living with a chronic condition with a good attitude, and that's made me closer to her as well. I've sat down with her to find out more about how she is dealing with things, and this has been helpful. I've also talked to some friends at work who have struggled with weight loss about what sorts of things they do to stay motivated with diet and exercise. They had some great ideas.
Advice
- My advice is to talk to the people around you who are dealing with health challenges, and it doesn't have to be thyroid issues, but ask them how they cope, and how they are dealing. I know that by watching and listening to the friends and family around me, I've definitely improved my own attitude, and been inspired to have a more positive approach to my own health, and much more sympathy for others who don't feel well, no matter what health issue they have.
