Living with Glitch: Navigating the Challenges of My New Diagnosis

Life has always been challenging for me, its been like that for very long time, so when I became sick I gave them names.

I have the Devil, which I refer to as my illnesses.
I have Freddy, whom I call my endometriosis.
I face the demons of mental health as well.

And as if things weren't challenging enough, let me introduce you to Glitch, who disrupts my neurological system.

Living with Functional Neurological Disorder: Meet Glitch

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) has introduced me to a challenging journey, one that I have come to personify as "Glitch." FND is an incredibly complex and often misunderstood condition, affecting the nervous system's functioning without a clear structural cause. It manifests in a myriad of ways, making daily life unpredictable and, at times, overwhelming.

Understanding Glitch

Glitch affects my nervous system, causing symptoms that can vary widely from one day to the next. These include movement disorders, sensory issues, and cognitive difficulties, among others. The lack of consistency in symptoms can be frustrating, both for those of us living with FND and for those trying to understand it. By giving this condition a name, I find it easier to explain and cope with the different aspects of my life it impacts.

Navigating Daily Life with Glitch

Living with Glitch means that no two days are the same. Some days, I might experience severe fatigue or find it difficult to coordinate my movements, while other days, I might feel relatively normal. This unpredictability requires flexibility and adaptability in my daily routines. I've learned to prioritize self-care, listen to my body, and adjust my activities based on how I'm feeling.

Embracing Support and Understanding

One of the most challenging aspects of having FND is the lack of awareness and understanding. It is often misdiagnosed or misunderstood by both medical professionals and those around us. Building a supportive community of friends, family, and healthcare providers who understand Glitch and its impact on my life has been invaluable. Their support allows me to navigate this condition with more confidence and resilience.

Finding Strength in Vulnerability

Naming my condition Glitch has also allowed me to embrace vulnerability. By sharing my experiences and challenges openly, I hope to raise awareness and foster empathy for those living with invisible illnesses. Vulnerability has become a source of strength, helping me connect with others and create a sense of belonging in a world that often feels isolating.

Moving Forward with Glitch

While Glitch presents ongoing challenges, it has also taught me important lessons about resilience, patience, and adaptability. I continue to learn and grow through this journey, finding joy in small victories and cherishing the support of those who stand by me. My path may be unpredictable, but with each step, I discover more about myself and the strength I possess.

Glitch is a part of my life, but it does not define me. By acknowledging its presence and embracing the support around me, I am empowered to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, one day at a time.

I will share the other aspect another day, but after three years of waiting, the unfortunate truth is that the initial assault has significantly contributed to this diagnosis, much like coming to terms with complex PTSD. These neurological disorders have revealed to me how trauma is a major factor in illness, sickness, and mental health effects, as well as the serious long-term consequences of not addressing it.