When I’m not feeling well, it can be hard to take care of me AND all of the responsibilities that I take on, including parenting two young boys. Because chronic illness requires a life-long dedication, I don’t always have the option to ask for help when things get a little tough. If I did, I wouldn’t always have someone available when things are REALLY bad. It’s a judgement call. So, I have to get creative in my planning and parenting, to make sure that I can still keep th

My experience managing chronic illness changed forever when I met my first “chronic-friend.” She was beautiful and confident and looked to be about my age. We connected immediately when our paths crossed at my first job out of college. Within hours of meeting, she pulled out an insulin pump (a device worn by some diabetics to administer their insulin) and I quietly gasped. LOOK! Someone who has medical needs! So what if it’s rude to stare; I was excited. She told me ab

Symptoms can manifest slowly. Or, they can rear their ugly head with a shocking strength that would throw even the most steady-footed individuals into a spiral that feels unending. I remember quite vividly what I’ve dubbed as “the last morning of normalcy” (Or rather, the first day of “Chronically Jess”), when I suddenly ran to the bathroom and wouldn’t emerge unafraid for a few years. On that morning, bags were packed and the car was almost loaded. I was so happy and care