What is Real Support for a Loved One? My Health Journey and Where I’ve Been.

Initially, this was going to be a simple “I’m back” episode with an explanation of my long-term absence here. But as I contemplated what I’d say, I found myself in resistance to sharing my story. It’s not that I have a problem with anyone knowing. It’s that it hasn’t been an overall pleasant experience for me to share it. People have varying responses, and most are not as supportive or empathetic as they think. So today I’m starting a discussion on how to support a loved one through their health journey.

Chronic health conditions are way more prevalent than I thought prior to my own health journey. Everybody knows someone who has an ill-health story whether it’s ongoing chronic pain, a horrible health crisis, serious illness, or something else. Plus, many of us are caring for an elderly parent (or will be), which has its own challenges. If you’re simultaneously struggling with your own health, the layers of complexity and stress are compounded.

When I gave my presentation last year at the Mind Well Retreat on How to Maintain your Relationship During Illness, I had no idea that I’d come to experience this from the eyes of somebody also on a health journey.

This topic is both timely and relevant. The discussion is just beginning.

In other news, I now offer a coaching package for individuals as well as couples, in which I use the same 4-step process. I’m blogging again as well. You can find it all on my website at judygraybill dot com.