Juniper's interview
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How did all start?
Months ago I broke out with cystic acne. Began feeling neck and jaw pain out of nowhere.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes. 2 weeks.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Medication. I have takin it into my own hands to research. Have began looking into alternatives to treat and am currently getting body talk sessions. Have changed lifestyle as well.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Taking time for myself in nature and eliminating stresses.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Side effects from medication and migraine headaches that are debilitating.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Supportive friends. Minimal family support. At times I don’t feel supported. I have felt alone a lot. Work relationships have dwindled almost completely. Many people who say they are there are not.
What things have you stopped doing?
Working and not as busy which is not by choice. Unable to keep plans and unable to socialize or fulfil obligations especially in evenings.
What do you think about the future?
I plan to reinvent myself. My previous work created a lot of stress which is a trigger for my condition.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Prior to this condition I was busy as a single mom. My kids are active in sports. I was also more active. Used to enjoy running and exercise and don’t have the energy I once did.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I would be able to keep my promises to my kids and not be run by the constant pain I am in. I would like to be working in an environment that is not toxic and stressful. I would like to travel. I would like to be able to be more active.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
I never know when the pain will hit and I live in constant fear.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
It is important to take advantage of the times you feel good. Enjoy even those small moments. Know your triggers. Be kind to yourself. Never give up hope. Pray. Find your passion and do more of that. Find healthy supports.
