I'm Jill, from North Dakota.
Before I was diagnosed with Sjogren's, I was
having a lot of health problems like pain
in my legs and feet, extremely dry eyes and
mouth, facial numbness, and extreme fatigue.
I visited a lot of different doctors and finally
found a rheumatologist who referred me to
a larger hospital with experience with rheumatic
diseases.
They diagnosed me with Sjogren's.
One of the most challenging changes is when
my body tells me to slow way down and my mind
doesn't agree.
I do try to focus on the things I have changed
for the better though, like getting enough
sleep, eating a mostly healthy diet, spending
time with my family, at church, and on the
tennis court.
Because people can't always see the signs
and symptoms, it's hard for them to know that
these are real conditions that impact millions
of people.
There are a few things I'd like to share about
people with rheumatic diseases.
First, look beyond the person's disease and
learn more about their strengths.
Second, if someone with a rheumatic disease
shares information with you ask them open-ended
questions and avoid providing advice about
how they can feel better.
Instead, say things like "What is that like
for you?" or "I don't know about that, can
you tell me more?"
You'll both walk away from the conversation
feeling much better.
My rheumatic disease may be invisible, but
I'm not.
Early diagnosis and awareness are so important.
