In the past week my boyfriend of 5 years proposed... Happiest time ever... And at the same time symptoms I haven't had in years resurfaced. Not doin great physically but I am so lucky he was able to take over everything in the household for me to just rest and do what I need to recover without stress. Sidenote, I had to write a list for daily to do's as we are taking care of his dad and 2 kitties and write down that I am "off my feet completely" (guys are visual lol), try this if u struggle with communication. Im 42 and have never given up on love. Illness struck late 20s but I continued to date, probably naively, even after several failed long term relationships still didn't give up on love no matter how sick I got. I hope you won't, either! The right person will see your spirit, see past your limitations and accept you for you. As will anybody else in your life who loves you for you. Be confident in that YOU ARE LOVABLE! Focusing on things that cheer me up and distract me when I'm down and really just to get my day started with a smile lets him see that chronic illness and pain can take almost everything but I won't let it take my spirit! The mental aspect is so important to get through tough times no matter what the challenge. Makes it harder for people to believe I don't feel well when I am smily and jokey but I have also worked hard to find my "happy" in this new normal. It's a constant struggle, I have horrible downs as we all do, it's minute by minute, using all sorts of coping I've learned over the years so I have a "toolbox" which of course includes "allowable wallowing time". He says I am strong when I don't feel strong. I didn't think he was even sure he wanted to marry me anymore after living together and seeing how bad it gets and how little I actually do including showering only twice a week! He has seen more sides of me,good and bad, and he still does...love me! I am lucky to have found him. I feel so lovable and grateful right now in this space. I hope if you want love you will not give up on it and don't give up on yourself, outside your allowable "give-up" time, then return refreshed and ready to take it all on again. If you have love, enjoy it and appreciate it! #lovable #spirit #Confidence #wallowtime