Beverly's Story

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

It began with periods of horrific waves of fatigue. Each doctor I sought out was convinced it was all in my mind, but I knew my pain and fatigue was real. I've tried various medications to manage my fatigue, but it had terrible side effects. I felt nothing helped.

My feet hurt so badly that it made it difficult to walk. The pain begins at my feet and then crawls up my body until it has captured every inch of me, but I am not just in pain, I am so exhausted that I cannot function. Because of this, it is hard to make plans with anyone because 9 out of 10 times I have to cancel.

I remember the one time I tried to get a pedicure, and it only ended up in tears because it was too painful for me. I wanted to enjoy the relaxation, but instead, I had to withstand terrible pain. I cannot plan anything for I don't know how I will feel. Lately, my symptoms are worse, and I cannot enjoy one full day. I'm hurting from head to toe with no relief in sight.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

I stay home most of the time. I have made a complete change in my diet, and twice a week I go to physical therapy. I'm taking supplements and seeing a rheumatologist, naturopath, and chiropractor. Next, I will see an acupuncturist.

There is no magical pill, and it's hard to enjoy life when you are in pain.

Who has been there for you? How?

My friends help me emotionally and have offered to come with me to Lahey clinic or Mayo to see if they have a better option for me.

I pray each day that a miracle will be found and I will get my life back. It is very hard living like this.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

I'm proud that I can always smile, not let others know how I feel, and I can help others who are living with fibromyalgia.

What's your advice to someone else living with Fibromyalgia?

It is a difficult road to ride but research for new treatments. Ask several doctors and read comments from other groups. You never know what might be helpful. Think out of the box.

Is there anything else we should know?

I've had many traumatic events in my life. I smile and show a brave face, so no one knows how I truly feel. I don't want pity.