Chapter 1: The Ups and Downs of Living with Disability

I’ve been somewhat absent for the past month. Alongside a few others, I had several deadlines to meet in mid-February, which we successfully accomplished.

I also have several unfinished drafts that I aim to complete. Recently, however, my mental capacity has diminished. I don’t believe I've changed my approach; it simply feels as though there’s less of me available to tackle everything I want to achieve, and that’s quite painful.

Furthermore, my physical condition has deteriorated lately. I’ve been experiencing more spasms and twitches, which are uncomfortable and impacting my sleep. To address this, I’ve been prescribed a small blue pill to aid my sleep, and while it helps somewhat, I still face challenges.

This situation inevitably affects my mental health, leading me to make some difficult choices. One of those choices has been to halt my writing on platforms like Medium, as the noise and demands there became overwhelming.

When I'm feeling this way, I instinctively revert to survival mode. It’s akin to being Bear Grylls in a jungle, except I'm stuck in bed, battling the urge to get up for a nighttime bathroom break. How do I manage? I limit my communication with others. While this might raise concerns when I don't respond, sending just one message can expend too much of my energy.

I find myself resting in bed quite a bit, which isn't ideal. To counteract this, I try to change my surroundings, even if I’m engaged in the same activity. A new view can be refreshing. Opening windows to let in fresh air is also beneficial; if I can’t step outside, I bring the outside in.

It's crucial for me to steer clear of stressful situations, though I must be mindful of how I handle stress related to finances. If it’s not about paying a bill, I wonder if I’m merely postponing the stress rather than resolving it.

I strive to surround myself with positive influences while being cognizant of my limits. Achieving everything every day isn’t always feasible. Living with a disability can be incredibly challenging.

Realistically, I know I cannot evade these difficult periods. They are part of life. I’m uncertain if I’m currently in the midst of one or emerging from it, but I do believe that things will improve.

What I don’t need is for people to say things like, “Just pull yourself together,” “You must push through,” or “Have you considered yoga?” What I truly need is support—nothing more, nothing less. I can handle this, and I don’t need anyone else complicating matters. I will persevere; it’s a tough battle, but I’m determined to fight it.

The video titled "The Power of Disability Representation – The Business and the Talent" explores the significance of representation in the disability community, emphasizing both the talent and the business aspects involved. The discussion highlights how visibility and inclusion can lead to greater understanding and opportunities for those with disabilities.

Chapter 2: Finding Strength in Adversity

In the midst of challenges, it’s essential to discover what empowers us. Strategies for coping with the ebbs and flows of life can be immensely helpful.

Section 2.1: The Importance of Community Support

Being surrounded by supportive individuals can make a significant difference. It's vital to communicate needs clearly and to connect with those who uplift us.

Subsection 2.1.1: Setting Boundaries

Establishing boundaries can help preserve energy and focus on what truly matters. It’s about prioritizing well-being and recognizing when to step back.