Let’s face it; life is busy. People have work, kids, household, church or clubs, activities, travel and more.
Nonetheless, in the midst of our active schedules, let’s remember those who live with illness, pain and/or disability. We may have a friend, family member, someone at church, at work or a neighbor. Although our schedules can get crazy, we can prioritize and even give up a few things that really aren’t that necessary.
Often those living with a debilitating condition are isolated and feel lonely or forgotten. There are many, simple we can show our love that don’t necessarily take much of our time. So, let’s show them they are important to us by sharing our love with them throughout the new year!
We can remember them with a card, a surprise gift in the mail, a phone call, bring them a meal or arrange a visit. We can also offer rides to doctor appointments, ask what they need from the grocery store when we are there or fold some towels while visiting with them.
During the Holidays, we are often going in even more different directions with shopping, cooking, cleaning, hosting guests, parties and so many more activities. It can be overwhelming to say the least! Yet, we can make a point to invite our friend, family member or neighbor to join us for one or more of these events. What a gift it would be to be included!
For many, they may not know until the last minute if they will feel well enough to attend, so we should be patient and understanding. Others may know right away that even though they would love nothing more than to join us, they simply can’t. However, if they are unable to come, we can still make an extra plate or two to drop off to them or take time for a nice visit. For those who live far away, we can remember them by sending something in the mail or making a phone call.
For lots more ways to be encouraging and supportive to loved ones, see our book, But You LOOK Good!
Let’s work together to make a difference in 2012!
Wayne and the IDA Team
About Wayne
Wayne is the Founder & President of the Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA). His inspiration for IDA is His wife, Sherri, who lives with Multiple Sclerosis, Lyme Disease, Chemical Sensitivities, Traumatic Brain Injury and Anaphylaxis Food Allergies. Wayne is the Author of the booklet, But You LOOK Good! How to Encourage and Understand People Living with Illness and Pain. He has spoken at seminars, conferences, health fairs and banquets to help create awareness and better understanding. Wayne and the IDA Executive and Advisory Team reach out to others living with illness, pain and injury around the world. They bring encouragement, support, education and awareness about invisible disabilities to friends, family, co-workers and businesses through websites, projects, articles, pamphlets, seminars, events, videos, radio and social networks.
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I appreciated your post. I am very lonely, when I try to talk to family and friends……..well, let’s just say that it is not good. They say some really cruel things. They do not know how much their words hurt me and I already am aching both physically and emotionally. I wish I had someone to talk to who would not judge me, but I have no idea how to find such a person.
Thanks for reading this.
We are so sorry to hear of your struggles, Linda! Sadly, this is such a common response and that is why we are here. Friends and family often find it challenging to know what to say and what not to say. We have many pamphlets, booklets, videos and audios to help.
Also, often people living with debilitating conditions seek others in their shoes in order to find friendship, support and understanding. Please consider joining us on IDA’s social network, My Invisible Disabilities Community: http://www.InvisibleDisabilitiesCommunity.org
Please help, support and sign this anti-Bullying petition. I lost my job of fifteen years when I became very ill because of my autoimmune challenges. I was bullied, humiliated and treated with such disrespect I’m still (after two years) dealing with PTSD. It escalated after I turned in my FMLA paperwork .Within several months, I was ultimately terminated. I am now ready to speak up and help others being bullied, for what ever reason. I’ve learned millions of people are Bullied and there really isn’t any recourse… YET. We desperately need laws regarding any form of Bullying at any age.This needs to be a illegal and punishable to the fullest extent of the law ! This criminal behavior, robs a person of their, dignity, value and takes away their peace. All to often it leads to bullyside, directly related to the inhumane treatment and total disregard of the “targets” suffering, let alone health. We have to expose Bullying for what it truly is…..Please join me in this fight for the most basic form of human rights.! Thank you, Beth Poore https://www.change.org/petitions/taken-from-the-playground-to-the-work-place-bullying-to-death