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 | The differences between an acute and chronic
illness are like night and day. A chronic illness lasts and lasts.
It's end point is unknown. It could last months, years, forever.
People of all ages who experience chronic pain, illness or disease
have to deal with the sometimes radical changes in how they must now
go through their daily lives. Things that we all take for granted
but that the illness now prevents, or if your lucky only inhibits,
your ability to do things that were once so simple and basic.
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In addition to the actual
illness the chronically ill (and their families) must content with
other people's reactions to them. Or their lack of reaction in many
cases. Given that most people are familiar with the acute illness
process of getting better, people generally assume that the chronic
illness will also get better. They can forget to check in and ask
how things are going. |
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With death, sadly, there is an ending.
However, with chronic illness issues there may be no end in sight. Yet these
families also experience the same awkwardness from friends. Friends, co-workers even family members seem to
pretend that the continuing sickness isn't really even still happening. They
don't ask so they don't risk offending. They think they're being helpful when,
in reality, they are actually be creating distance. |
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So, first to those of you
who do reach out and stay in some form of regular contact with
someone whose family contends with relentless health issues. Bravo!
A big thank you goes out to you for your kindness, awareness and
sensitivity. |
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If, on the other hand, you
recognize yourself in the description of the person who's not sure
what to say or if they should say anything then here's what you may
try; "I just wanted you to know I was thinking about you and
wondering how things are really going." or "I'm here if you would
like to talk. |
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