In the past three decades of dealing with unpredictable health issues, a pain point has reared its head over and over again for me. After countless conversations with other chronic illness warriors, I know it’s an ongoing struggle for many: employment and financially caring for ourselves. The constant struggle for…

I’m an all-or-nothing kind of person emotionally. If you ask how I am, you won’t ever hear me answer “all right.” I’m always good, great, or the polar opposite — in which case, I’m too “in my feelings” to reply. When studying or learning a skill, I’m either…

I’ve tried writing this column about 10 times now. I’m struggling to keep my thoughts straight, my concentration on the task at hand, and my mind from wandering off in a daydream. There was a list of eight things I needed to do today, and I’ll be lucky…

My life is busy. People have suggested to me on more than a few occasions that maybe it’s even a little too busy, especially for someone with underlying health issues. I’d be outright lying if I didn’t admit that being chronically ill isn’t a significant driving factor in…

You’ll walk into my café early Sunday morning and as I look up to smile and greet you, I have no way of knowing what your impression of me may be. However, I’m certain there’s an array of truths that would never cross your mind. As a part-time…

This time 10 months ago, it was the peak of the summer season here in the Southern Hemisphere, which meant that, in my little oceanside town and surrounds, business was in full swing and working hours were plenty. I worked at least five long, hot days a week…