WHO I WAS BEFORE MY AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS?

Me being a tourist when I first moved to Chicago

I admit, I wasn't a perfect angel and had my ups & downs but I was more and able to do more before I got sick.

In Chicago waiting for a train

My Associates Degree I worked hard for.

I worked hard, managed stores in Chicago, I climb ladders, lifted and carried items much bigger than myself. I kept a clean house, decorated for every holiday and graduated from college with an Associates Degree in Business. 

Me shopping for Halloween at Walgreen's

Me with three of my minions

Halloween at Grainger (I worked there for 3 yrs before my illness and was let go)

I could stand and sit for hours on end depending what my job required of me. I used to ride the L-train and catch buses in Chicago to go to work, to the store, to take care of my grandson when he was little and ill. I could walk miles down on the Navy Pier and everywhere else without a care in the world. I've helped and been there for friends, family and strangers, donated to causes and even walked for Breast Cancer.

Me at one of many stores I managed in Chicago, IL

My Cousin & I at Breast Cancer Walk

I ran around and played with my grandchildren, could run up and down stairs and take a shower without needing a nap. I used to go grocery shopping without having to worry about losing the use of my legs. I loved taking the kids trick-or-treating, to the fairs and Williams Tree Farm to see Santa. Now I can't do any of those things without getting dizzy and nauseated. 

Playing outside with my babies

At the Apple Hut

Holding my newest minion

I wanted everyone to know I was and did a lot more than I do now, that I'm not lazy but truly ill. I mourn the person I used to be, I miss her very much and would give anything to be her again but there is no cure for me. I struggle with this everyday.

Went to Portage Theatre in Chicago and met Svengoolie

Me with Swiss Colony's Chris Mouse

My business card with Staples in the Tech Department