Do you ever get tired of fighting the good fight? I know that I have to be strong and shout to the world what it means to have a chronic illness. Yet, today is one of those days when I just sit and wish that someone else would do the hard work and let me enjoy a bit of peace.

But I know that that’s not going to happen. It is my job and God-given directive to “get the job done”. Through the nights of sleeplessness and pain. Tossing and turning, only to have to get up and get going the next morning before the sun rises — to start the climb up the hill again.

At least I know that there’s a community out there that gets it and I’m not alone.

I read messages from neighbors who are sitting vigil with me because their minds are racing, their pain is excruciating, and they can’t settle down either.

I see notes from people who are frustrated because their boss has threatened to fire them if they take off one more day for ANOTHER doctor’s appointment.

One more told me that her doctor has sent her to still ANOTHER specialist because he just couldn’t figure out why she was having so much pain walking and standing.

The overwhelming issue here is that with chronic and autoimmune conditions, there are often no easy answers. One disease mimics several others. The meds that work on this, don’t work on that. The doctors are frustrated. The families and friends can’t believe that this person who looks so well, is really so sick. No one wants to admit that they are different than they used to be. Some think “WEAK”, others think “broken”, yet without the answers we all wonder are we maybe “just going nuts”?

There is hope however. It is knowing that you have a place in the club — the chronic illness club where there are millions of other women who do understand what you’re going through. Are ready to comfort and share, to hold accountable and to laugh and joke. Are you ready to join us there? Let me know and I’ll send you an invite.

On another note, we have a new member that is going to be very important to this organization and to you all. His name is Warrior and he’s being trained to be a service dog. For many of us, having someone around that can help us with day to day activities (many of these disabilities see us falling, passing out, not being able to walk steadily, becoming confused, and so much more). A dog is trained to watch out for these problems and to jump in if needed. I know I’m looking forward to having this trained, professional caretaker by my side — especially if Ed can’t be there for whatever reason. Perhaps its something that you should think about too. And you can train them yourself. Follow along here and on Instagram to see the progress Warrior and I make as we travel the chronic illness pathway.

This post was written by Nancy Becher. Nancy Becher is a business consultant for over 40 years, received a Masters in Counseling and a PhD (abd) from Western Michigan University. Recently she founded a nonprofit, Invisible Warriors  helping to address health inequalities, improve experiences of navigating healthcare services and supporting women who live with diverse physical and mental health conditions. Most recently she has earned the title of International #1 best seller author and as Huntsville AL best in service for healthcare consultant.