I suffered sickness and pain for many years without a diagnosis. I saw a multitude of doctors – most of whom dismissed me as a hypochondriac when I started to list the multitude of symptoms. They would say things like:

• “Imagine yourself feeling better, and you will”
• “Let’s work one symptom at a time – what’s your worst symptoms today”

I had been bedridden for several months when one doctor who stated my bloodwork indicated lupus and referred me to a rheumatologist. I had more bloodwork done before that appointment and the doctor had the results on the first visit.

She immediately stated that my labs were normal and I didn’t have lupus. I began to tear up – which made the doctor angry. “Why would you be upset that you don’t have a disease? This is a good thing!”

Ultimately she dismissed me with the recommendation to go to Macy’s and get a proper bra fitting. Yes, seriously, that was her remedy for my multitude of symptoms.

Nobody wants to be sick. Nobody wants to be diagnosed with a major illness. But when you are sick, you want to know why so you can get proper treatment.

I rejoiced when I finally, after 8 years, got a diagnosis – Lyme disease. What a relief! I can put a name to my sickness – I can research – I can take proper meds and follow protocols to help me get better.

Yes it’s a long road. Yes it’s hard. And it’s come with a long list of additional diagnosis’ which is overwhelming at times – but I have a name for my sickness! And that’s so important.

If you are stuck with doctors who don’t know how to help you – consider seeing a functional medicine doctor. These medical detectives think outside the box and look at all the symptoms together, your body as a whole.

There is hope. There is a name for what you’re going through.

Don’t give up.