Q & A – Living with Endometriosis

Endo Sister Story – Tori

Note from Mara: I’ve been asking my fellow Endo sisters to share their stories. The more we talk about the disease, the more we break myths and empower each other. Keep talking! Keep raising awareness! And keep fighting! This is Tori’s story… —- I’m Tori, 27 and married to an amazing and supportive husband. No … Continue reading →

What is Intersticial Cystitis?

Those of us with chronic illnesses, like Endometriosis and Fibromyalgia, are also plagued with other diseases and conditions. Unfortunately, I also suffer from a condition called “Interstitial Cystitis” – also known as IC. Interstitial Cystitis is often mistaken for UTI’s but has no presence of infection or bacteria. The typical symptoms of IC are urgency, … Continue reading →

Spine Care and Dry Needling

What the heck is dry needling? You’ve probably heard whispers of it. I’m here to give you the low down and tell you why… it’s NOT so bad after-all. After pregnancy, a c-section, and Endo surgery # 4… my low back was a WRECK and in need of some loving care. My doctor sent me … Continue reading →

Pain Relief – Bath Tub Style

Is there anything more soothing than a hot bath? Especially on rainy or snowy evenings, a warm bath can become a sanctuary. A calming wave. A fresh start. In the hygiene area of stores, you’ll find all kinds of bath soaps filled with chemicals, synthetics, and fragrances – which is awful for anyone with chronic … Continue reading →

Using Essential Oil for Pain

Last year, my sister gave me one of the greatest gifts… a starter kit with essential oils. I used to think it was weird and probably had little affect. I am here to tell you that essential oils are amazing, especially if used in the right combination. For my friends experiencing chronic pain, I have … Continue reading →

Are You Ready for a Diet Change?

Why are necessary changes so hard? If a diet change would help you feel better, why would you delay that change? Why do we mourn the loss of food like it’s a friend or a pet? It’s food!! Nourishment for your organs and body. A life sustainable resource! When we stop looking at food like … Continue reading →

Signs You Might Have Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (Fibro) has a mind of it’s own. Ironically, this misunderstood illness is caused by abnormal pain signals within the brain. This condition can often feel like a bunch of “random symptoms” occurring within your body. And until you’re diagnosed, these random symptoms can feel… scary, overwhelming, lonely, and painful. When it comes to patients with … Continue reading →

The Chronic Life – Types of Doctor Appointments

This will be a continuing series throughout my blog. They are meant to be short and shareable. In the life of a chronic pain and illness patient… there are 4 different kinds of Doctor appointments. The Anxious Kind:  You’ve been waiting for an answer or anticipating results from a new or increasingly painful symptom. This … Continue reading →

Held Together By Tape and Glue

I would like to dedicate this post to all the chronic pain warriors and “spoonies” out there. Year after year, my body seems to deteriorate. And I find myself in a continuous battle of mental strength versus physical symptoms. One of the most difficult things about having a chronic illness is learning that you are … Continue reading →