by benforred | Nov 21, 2017 | Advocacy, Cancer, Colon Cancer, Family, Medical Providers, Research, Support
The University of Michigan sponsored a Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Family Day this November in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This wasn’t the first year for the family day, but it was my first year to attend. I asked my mother, who also has Familial Polyposis (FAP), to...
by benforred | Nov 1, 2016 | Caregivers, Health, Relationships, Support
I had left behind the dating world for nearly 7 years and I thought I was leaving it behind permanently. However, after my marital separation and divorce I found myself once again dating. I was suddenly thrust back into situations calling for me to decide when, what,...
by benforred | Sep 23, 2016 | Mental Health, Support
Today was a physically taxing day. I woke up not feeling my best and it worsened as the day drew on. I ended leaving work early due to stomach pain and bloating. As soon as I returned home, I crawled into bed to rest. I was worried about feeling better in a few...
by benforred | Jul 6, 2016 | Mental Health, Support
I was going through another bout of depression. Not anything particularly new for me. I’ve battled depression since childhood when my chronic illness started. I’ve completed years of psychotherapy and resume counseling when needed. Although the triggers of...
by benforred | May 24, 2016 | Activity, Family, Health, Support, Symptoms
“Is there any part of your body that hurts that would keep you from playing tag?” my niece asked, peering up at me with her big brown eyes full of hope that this time I could play with her and her sister. “I can play” I answered as a smile...
by benforred | Apr 27, 2016 | Advocacy, Health, Support
“You don’t have anything wrong with you. You have no issue walking.” he said with dismissing disdain for what I had shared as I tried to empathize with him. My word alone that I have a chronic illness wasn’t enough for another person with...
