(Explicitly Sick) How To Make Small Changes To Make Your Life Better: Kimberlea Lemon, Occupational Therapist

RecommendationsSpoonie App RecommendationsFabulousCalmDashlane I was wrong name is DashlaneSmartlightsTV & Movie To Calm To:Big Bang TheoryThe Good Witch Hitchhikers Guide to the GalaxyLarkrise to CandlefordDo you have any favorites? Comment belowName *Kimberlea LemonDisorder InfoWhat is your disorder? *Cfs, fibromyalgia, IBS, anxiety, depression.At what age did your disorder become a daily issue? *12Who were you before your illness became debilitating? *Competitive gymnastics, dancer and horse rider - eventing and dressage.What would you do if you were not dealing with your invisible illness? *Horse riding and being really active!What would you like people to know about your daily life? *It is hard and I miss out on a lot but it is possible to live and be happyWhat would make living and moving in the world easier for you? *Public understanding, not just “I’m tired too”Do you have any life hacks? *Lots of being an OT means I can hack all of my life! I have very specific routines. I use a lot of technology.What kind of support do you get from family or friends? *My family is very supportive, none of my friends know.Have you ever had someone, or a medical professional, not believe you have an invisible illness because of your appearance and if so are there any examples that stand out? *Yes, many times. at 13 I was told I was depressed and put on antidepressants. At the same age, a dr told me to “eat” better however I was having allergic reactions to most foods!How has your chronic illness affected your relationships? *Struggling with relationships as I can’t keep up.Is there anything you are afraid to tell people in your life? *Not afraid, but I hate telling people I can’t do something due to my pain. I also haven’t told any friends due to the stigma around the disorders.What is your best coping mechanism? *Watching a specific show on Netflix on repeat.What are you the most concerned about and the most hopeful for in the future? *Concerned about not making any more improvements with my health. I can’t live by myself as I can’t do all the household tasks and maintenance. Most hopeful that they will be able to test and prove the illness I have.Is there anything you want to make sure we talk about during the interview? Like an organization you want to promote or something specific that you deal with.How ots can help people with chronic illnessWhat makes you energized or enthusiastic? What drains you?I enjoy working on my computer on little side projects. I get drain being around people and socializing at events.Any favorite books or shows?Big Bang theory What is the hardest and/or best lesson your condition has taught you?Hardest was giving up my dreams and passion with my horses. But it led me to OT where I can now help others.What is the best purchase under $100 that helped your lifeMy new toy amazon echo - Alexa has been amazing as she reminds me of things and helps me spell words!Any questions you think we should add to this list?My occupation: I work as an OT with people after they have had a concussion. I would like to expand my work to include people with chronic illness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.