Years ago I received some responses to a blog that upset me. They upset me because I didn’t know how to help. I remember one specific lady had been diagnosed with RA in her early 30s. While that is still quite young, I felt like I could not relate. She was wanting to understand how I was running marathons and she was trying to deal with her new challenges that were hindering her performance. I had never known a life with out the disruptive disease. Therefore, it was difficult for me to understand her grieving and loss. I tried to respond in a helpful and positive manner, but I personally felt like I let her down. The truth is, it’s difficult for any of us to completely understand how another person’s chronic condition is impacting their life. The best thing we can do is have grace, compassion, and understanding. The same thing we should be doing for ourselves. The same thing we should be doing for everyone.
