How do you cope?

[SLester]

My friend asked me yesterday if I've been talking to other LAM women about how we cope.  She sees me in a lot of pain frequently, very tired and unable to do many things that I used to enjoy.

I'm not even on oxygen.  I work part time and I do love doing that.  Sometimes I get really down when I realize I don't have the energy to do the things I used to do.  I usually am OK with that, but sometimes it really does get to me.

So I guess this is an open call to hear of others who have issues due to LAM and how you find you live with it. 

[ashleytollett]

I talk about my feeling with my friends and family. It is sometimes very hard to do but I try my hardest. Sometimes I want to just crawl in a hole and scream at the top of my lungs. But then I remember the price that someone paid so that i could have these lungs. So I keep remembering how lucky I am to be alive!

[sterling]

Hi Slester,

My wife has LAM. She goes through the same thing. It really comes down to pacing yourself accordingly. Take little breaks and plan in way that takes on tasks in smaller bites.

It eases the pressure on the body and helps in dealing with the emotional turoil that comes with LAM. Do not try to keep up with everyone, but rather have them keep step with you for what you can afford to give for the moment.

Example: Strolling through the Mall. Do not keep up with the friend who is with you let them follow your pace. Enjoy what you can do small or a little larger.

Sterling................

[SLester]

Thanks Sterling, that's good advice.  Especially this time of year as I see the weeds in my garden that I'm so tempted to go attack! 

[sterling]

Your welcome.

 

[marlahamlin]

I think a lot of it is positive attitude. I do have my "pity parties" but they are short.  I have learned to change, adjust, change, adjust.  I ask for help now. My family & friends are there to pull the weeds, plant my flowers, etc. It is too hard for me to do these things, even on so much oxygen.  One day at a time!!