How do we build community to support each other when we can't get out of bed?
The concept of community has always been something I thought about mostly because I feel I don't have a community. I didn't fit in with this group or that group when I was healthy. I spent most of my time teaching children with special need and a second job of sharing/teaching yoga to adults. I tried to join in and it felt like the club was already formed and closed. About 15 years ago I joined an in person migraine support group.... which fell apart because no one could attend meetings because we had migraines. I tried a few more pain support groups and for some of us it took everything to get out of bed and for others they were concerned running the Boston Marathon was going to be a little challenging.
The idea of community is coming up a lot lately for me - people talking about doing your part in community to survive our current political situation or to be of service to others who need help. My therapist talks about finding community. Affirmation type cards that I pulled for the new year were all about community. Ideas have been shared about a coffee group or potluck or gardening group or volunteering. I get the message loud and clear - community is essential for surviving and thriving. But/And...
How do we build community to support each other when we can't get out of bed? Many of us with migraine have other health issues. If I don't have a migraine I probably have GI issues or have no energy to move or think.
I do what I can - I call my representatives -city, state and federal. I helped a mom who was struggling with her child and hopefully provided 20 minutes of peace for both of them. I make financial donations when I can. I love chatting online here and with a farm sanctuary. And most of it is key strokes and it never feels like enough. It feels like a spark of light that quickly goes away - no planned gathering to look forward to keeping that spark alive.
How do we/I give, receive, and connect when our/my constants keep us/me isolated?
Thank goddess for Ella, my cat.
(typically I would read this post 4 or 5 times to get the words and editing just right - I am not able to do that today)
Hi
- First of all, thank you so much for posting such a thoughtful comment. It's clear to me from your post that you've put a lot of thought into how you can have a positive impact on others.
You raise a lot of good points. One of them being, how do we connect with others with a dynamic condition like migraine? Each day is not the same from the last, and we all experience unique challenges with it. I wonder if support groups through an organization like Miles for Migraine would help? However, I acknowledge that may just give you more of the same you've already tried. I'm not sure if I know how to overcome that barrier of being in a different place than others living with migraine (e.g. having trouble getting out of bed, while others run marathons). Perhaps someone from the community will chime in with some insights.
I have hope that there is a way to engage with our lives in a meaningful, change inducing way. Crossing my fingers and toes that others will jump in and help us find that answer.
Until then, sending well wishes your way. - Cody (Team Member)Thank you
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