Lisy's Story

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

Living with fibromyalgia hasn’t been an easy journey. In 2009 I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

I was so scared because I had no idea what was wrong with me. I felt like I got run over by a truck and wearing clothes hurt. Also, I had a staph infection in my sinuses which developed into colitis. I visited the hospital several times, and they still couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me. I had to get an IV therapy because the bacteria staph was taking over my body.

After I finished treatment, I started to feel a little bit better except the body aches were still there. So, I became my own advocate. I kept researching until I found doctors that believed me and helped me during this hard time.

Who has been there for you? How?

My mother was there for me through it all. Unfortunately, she is no longer with me. I miss her every day. No one took care of me as she did. It’s tough dealing with this on my own.

Knowing I am such a strong woman everyone assumes I am okay, but inside, it’s a whole other story.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

I went to an infectious disease doctor who helped with my staph. Also, I did acupuncture, started going to the gym, removed stress from my life, and changed my eating habits.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

I’m proud that I have been able to survive this like a true champion and that I have not allowed fibromyalgia to take over my body.

I do freelancing makeup, and although it’s a struggle, I love what I do and regardless of my pain. I do it because it gives me this feeling of happiness and takes my mind off of what I feel.

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

My advice for those living with fibromyalgia is to know that they are not alone. Don’t ever feel as if you are. Fibromyalgia is real; it is not in your head. So, talk about it, complain about it, and if you need to ask for help – ask for it. Seek advice look for people who understand even if it’s a stranger, it’s ok to talk about it.

Raise fibromyalgia awareness because it's very misunderstood. We need to use our voices so it can be understood!

Remember, we are warriors. We got this!

Is there anything else we should know?

I am a single mother to two boys, and I am a grandmother now. I am a freelance makeup artist. I keep fighting for my family because they keep me strong.