#EDSBlogChallenge (Part 2)

Chronic Illnesses, Invisible illnesses, Uncategorized

Hi Guys,

If you are just tuning in and missed my initial post or want to get involved in the challenge you can still find the questions on my first #EDSBlogChallenge post.

What are your top 5 coping tips?

Stay hydrated with water
Eat small but frequent meals
Take naps or rest when possible
Be honest with other people about your limits
Use natural remedies like lavender and mint to help with physical pain

What are your top 5 goals you want to accomplish despite your chronic illness(es)?

Complete my placement year in Marketing
Finish my degree with a 2:1 minimum
Travel to two countries in the next two years
Keep blogging as a hobby
Spend more time with my friends and boyfriend making special memories

How do you stay motivated in your daily life?

I try to keep my mind occupied on University work
Reading books when I can focus
Writing whilst watching films or listening to music
Giving my pet rabbit and my boyfriend’s dog cuddles
Talking to friends and using Facebook support groups for Ehlers-Danlos
Asking support from people when I am having bad flares

What do you want people to know the most about your life with EDS?

It isn’t just a joint problem that makes me look young, it is a joint problem that affects my daily life in most things I do.
The chronic fatigue part of it is insane and pain in one area may be different and a different severity to another part another day.

When did you first start thing that the dislocations/subluxation extreme flexibility etc. could be related to a real problem?

Around 22-23 years old when I stopped working as a Waitress I noticed the pain heightened considerably and I became very weak.

Did your related diagnoses come before or after your EDS diagnosis?

Photosensitivity, IBS, nut, gluten and lactose allergies, oral food syndrome and a vitamin D insufficiency came before and chronic bladder syndrome, an increase in mast cells came after.
My pots test came back inconclusive and I am waiting to be tested for MCAD, Chrones and celiac disease

What is your biggest pet peeve about trying to explain EDS?

Many people think I am lucky when I explain that I am hyper-mobile and switch off when I try to explain it is much more than that.

How has being sick impacted your relationships?

Some relationships have become stronger and some weaker. I am shyer to make new friends and talk to new people as I am worried I won’t be able to sustain new friendships.
I have found a boyfriend who accepts me for who I am and understands I can’t do everything and I have become closer with my family.

What was your initial thoughts about being diagnosed?

I was such a mix bag of emotions!
I was happy to find out I had EDS but I thought that was the end of it. I realised it was just the start of a long journey to find out what else was lurking behind the wood works having very big digestive and bladder problems.
However, I am happy the doctors are more willing to find out what is wrong and try to make me feel better

What healthy habits have you adopted since being diagnosed?

To be honest this is still a massive work in progress. I still smoke and drink alcohol but I have cut down considerably (more on the alcohol part).
Any form of exercise hurts and tires me out massively but I am going to try and start a full-time job for a placement in July
I am eating healthier eating more fruit and vegetables and making sure get lots of rest.

How do you feel about your current treatment plan?

My current treatment plan isn’t very good as I am back taking Tramadol and a few other tablets and strong vitamins.
I was meant to do the 3 week intensive therapy course at RNOH but I currently am struggling to stay up 9-5 to do this.
I am also waiting for planning instillations and I am having an Endoscopy soon. I feel once I see a mast cell specialist the EDS will get better if I can block out some flares.

What do you think is the most misunderstood aspect of EDS?

That it is even an illness(to those who don’t know what EDS initially is)
for those who do I find they think all the types are the same and even people with the same types have the same issues

What are your top things to pass time when you’re stuck in bed?

Eat and sleep!
Watch Netflix
Text or speak to friends on the phone
Blog or do Uni work
Smother (I mean cuddle) my boyfriend

What is your favourite motivational quote and why?

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you don’t not stop.
I love this quote because it shows that resistance is key and no matter how long something takes if your determined you will get there in the end

Sharing is Caring

Please help me in my quest of raising awareness of EDS by sharing this post

Have your Say

Do you have EDS or know anyone with it with similar or different experiences – then why not comment below?

Like what you see?

Join me on my journey

Thanks for Reading

Lots of Love,

Update

Uncategorized

Hi Guys,

Unfortunately when I changed the layout all my social media shares across posts seem to have disappeared with my updated layout but Pinterest (however, I think it looks better) I am hoping it updates itself and you enjoy the new theme 🙂

I am going to be posting 1-2 posts a week now I have finished University for a while.

Thanks for all your support, and please continue to share future posts as these will still work even if it is not showing on my pages.

Lots of Love,

my name

Anxiety and Depression: Adam Hughes

Guest Posts, Invisble Illnesses, Mental Illnesses, Peeping through the Keyhole, Uncategorized

Peeping through the Keyhole

Hello Lovelies,

Today’s guest post is by Adam Hughes who gives a brief insight and advice to those living or supporting someone with anxiety and depression.

About the Author

Hi, I am Adam I am 24 years old living in London. I love reading, Audio books, writing and going on long walks. To find out more about Adam click here

What are the main symptoms you suffer from?

Depressive moods

Mood swings

Lack on concentration

How was your journey to diagnosis of depression?

It took years to be able to speak to a doctor and when I did it felt a lot better, like I wasn’t battling on my own anymore.

What 5 things you have learnt about Depression and Anxiety since being diagnosed?

I am not alone

It can take over many aspects of life

It can affect others as well as yourself

Love is always a great component of healing

Strength can be found in the smallest things

In what way has the NHS supported you?

Giving me a ear to listen to my troubles through counselling

What do you find is the most challenging part about your mental health?

I find building up a happy lifestyle and keeping up with others difficult.

What emotional support do you have for your mental health?

I have many wonderful and kind friends who are always supportive

What are 3 ways you manage your mental health on a day-to day basis?

Meditation

Walking

Relax remedy spray

What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed with Depression or Anxiety?

Keep on fighting even if it feels like everything is ending

Has any perceptions changed since you’ve been diagnosed with Depression and anxiety?

I have found society perceptions on mental health has improved by being challenged.

Have you gain any new hobbies since been diagnosed with Depression and Anxiety?

A love of writing again

How has depression changed your life?

My illness took some of the most important things from me last year (2017) and it almost ruined my entire life

What information do you wish you was given when you was initially diagnosed? Counselling leaflets and advice

What do you do for a living?

Freelance Teacher/Performer

What are your future plans in the next year?

Building up a successful teaching career

First Vlog

Check-ins with Morgan, My YouTube Channel, Uncategorized

Hello everyone!

Sorry, I have been a hermit for the past 2 months, gosh how time has flown by.

I have been so poorly since coming out of hospital I have struggled to blog but today I set up my Youtube channel ( I think) haha. Not sure why it fast-forwards but you can take it back to the start.

You can find me there.. by clicking here

I would love if you checked it out and subscribed.

Lots of Love,

7 Reasons to Beach it Benidorm

Travel, Uncategorized

Benidorm, in the Costa Blanca region, is Spain has been one of Europe’s hotspots for decades. There is something for everyone… if you have not yet discovered it, here are 7 reasons on what you are missing out on.

1.Glistening Beaches

Two beautiful clean beaches in Benidorm are Levante and Poniente. Poniente is the longest beach, but less crowded. Therefore, from a parent point of view it is easy to keep an eye on the kids. If you love to sunbathe or want to give the little ones some shade, you can rent an umbrella and sunbed for the day. However, it is recommended to take your own drinks because there are less bars near the beach.

Levante beach

Levante on the other hand, is filled with bars, restaurants and shops, perfect to pick up a refreshing drink or ice-cream. However, be aware it may be slightly tougher on small feet in the water, as it is rockier. Whichever beach you choose you are guaranteed great panoramic views including Benidorms’ skyscrapers.

2. The Exquisite Coves

Benidorm has more than miles of sand. Tio Ximo and Almadrava coves are perfect quite spots to relax or snorkelling, located at the north end of the coast.

Cala La Almadrava

3. Balcon del Mediterraneo

The best view of Benidorm can be found between Levante and Poniente. Balacon del Mediterraneo also known as the castle viewpoint. The view is particularly stunning at night, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab a quick bite to eat.

3. A Super Family-friendly Holiday

Benidorm is perfect for a family holiday, due to the activities it has to offer and hotels.

Hotels

Magic Aqua Rock Gardens is one of the most family-friendly resorts in Benidorm. The quirky hotel has Water Park connected and extensive entertainment activities for different ages. If some alone time is sought, adults can relax on the roof top bar.

RH Princesa is perfect for families who want a slightly longer stay. You can take the stress of cooking away by opting for all-inclusive or half board booking based on a minimum of 7 nights. This hotel is especially attractive to young children, with extensive activities, a pool, a playground and a bouncy castle. Adults can relax on the onsite-spa and this hotel even offers a childcare service onsite… which enables you to explore some bars in the main strip – Calle Gerona to have a boggie and let your hair down.

Aqua magic rock gardens hotel

Activities

Terra Mitica Theme Park

Terra Mitica is home to the longest wooden rollercoaster in Europe- Magnus Collusus. The amusement park is separated into different countries and is full of fun and thrills for the little ones. However, it is only open during the summer months (typically from April/May) and closes down around October time.

Mundomar Zoo

Mundomar adjacent to Aqualandia, opens its doors from the 18^th March. The zoo puts on live parrot, dolphin and sea lion shows – guaranting day of smiles. If you are keen animal lovers you can even get up close and personal with the animals. You can also get some snaps with the animals and have a meet and greet with exotic birds. For an extra cost you can become a trainer/ keeper for the day , feed penguins or have a dip with the sea lions.

4. Waterparks

If you fancy a day of wild splashes you will not be disappointed. You can plunge into water at Aqualandia or Aqua Natura catching adrenaline on umpteen slides. Then you can relax in the natural areas of have a look around the restaurants and shops. Aqua Natura also shows a sea lion show daily.

5.The Sunny Climate

You can expect Benidorm to be relatively hot all year round, due to the mountains protecting it. If you want to get a strong dose of vitamin D then August is the best month to visit, reaching up to 25℃ . The coldest month you can expect is January at around 12 ℃

A sunny day at Poniente beach

6. The Cuisine

To try some authentic Spanish cuisine, head on down to Benidorms’ old town. To find some tasty tapas look for Cadillac. For a more luxurious experience a must is Ulia restaurant by Pointente beach. The restaurant has mouth-watering Paella and fresh salads. To keep those taste buds alive you can wash it down with some white wine or Sangria.

Do you have fussy children? Fear not, there are many great pubs that cater to the British palate. Good choices are Corky’s Penny Farthing and Seven Stars. These restaurants also cater for special dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegan/ vegetarian options.

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Are you still wondering what is great about Benidorm?

7.Great Value for money

Benidorm is notoriously known for being perfect for those on a budget. If you really want to save the pennies it is cheaper to visit in the following months; January, February, March, November and December.

Now you know why Benidorm is perfect for a family-friendly holiday – why delay?

Book Benidorm here

Have you been to Benidorm.. and have any tips? Why not join in the fun and share them below.

The *10 Guys You’ll Find on POF

Dating, Uncategorized, Well-being

Online datingin 2017is like playing cards – you’ll never know what you’ll get.Yet, there are many reasons why you might turn to it. You may be disabledmaking meeting people more difficult. Or be a busybee. It’s fast for a hook up, you’ve been on the SESH and didn’t get anyattention or you’re a hopelessromantic thinkingyou’ll actually find someone. I am sorryto break it to you but this is highly unlikely…

You may be wondering why on earth am I on POF?

Well, perhapsyou’re like me, you’re just interested to see what’s floatingaround the marketwhilst needinga little ego boost. I’ve been a member of POF onand off since January and I’ve met one person in reallife. Although, I am not sure he counts, as he was a friend of a friend. If you’re curious he turnedout to be number #7… and like a typical girl, i still have a soft spot for him (at the back of my mind, of course)

I won’t lieI have heard success storieswith Tinder but POF is an entirely differentball game. Anyone can message you, so connectingwith people is fasterand in turn I’ve found much weirder. This post will enlighten you on the *10types of guys to avoidon it.

So let’s, begin…The *10 Guys you’ll Find on POF

1. The D*ck Pic Guy

No matter what dating app you use there will always be the d*ckpic guy. It is either the first message from him in your inboxor you tellhim you don’twant one and he sends it anyway.He is one horny rabbit… and an uglier version of the f*ckboy (#7). If you looking for no strings attached and you’re not too worried about the stateof his face… By all means crack on but it’s a NOfrom me…

2. The Serial Dating App User

This guy will write a genericlooooong message and spam you like a recruitment consultant.

“Hey how are you darling, where you from? You have beautiful ______ (inserts a part of the body). How are you finding Tinder?”

Yeah you heard me, Tinder.

He will oftenget confused with which dating app he is usingto message you and then pretend he hasn’t. He is either shockingly badat pulling, is desperateto be with someone OR is using as many channels as possiblefor sex.

3. Mr Stalker

This typeof guy mayor may not live in your local area but claims he has met youbefore in a place you’ve neverbeen or not at the timethey’re stating. You will notice a guy is a bit stalkerish if he sendsyou messagesevery minute of every day and gets moody when you don’t reply. Another warning sign is when you don’t reply at all and he persistently sends ‘three hey messages’ in a row.

All I can say is be cautiousgiving your numberto this type of guy AND social media accounts. Before you know it – You’ll be receiving Snapchats, Facebook and Twitter messageswhilst he’s simultaneously trying to textand callyou. He will leave you voicemails asking why you brokeup when you wasn’t even together.

Unfortunately, when you blockhe’s number it doesn’t endthere. The stalker will wantto knowwhy you’re not interested and search for your place of work and randomlyspend time in it like it’s his second home to watchyou. This happenedto me on a couple of occasions.

Creeeepy ey.

If this does happen DO NOT leave work alone. Be politeof courseit’s your jobbut try to keepthe conversationto a minimumto prevent his infatuation heightening.

4. The Proposer

The proposer is a bit more complicated than the other 9 types of guys.Why?
Well he has sub-categories. You may receive a message proposing a range of things from a man such as; offering to shower you with giftsand money, paying you in exchange for nudes, wanting you to satisfyhis strange fetishesor… he desires a threesome.

If you’re liberal and want to make some money… you might like the thoughtof men buying you things or sending nudes for money.

Nonetheless, just remember once something is publishedon the Internetit can nevertruly be deleted. Also, if the buyerguy demands to meet you and not in a public place, virtually run that mile.

It is better to be safe than sorry.

5. The Book Writer

This guy has analysed your profilein depth. He’s never met you but is already falling weakat the knees. He’s taken every single word from your profile and made an elaborate essayof why you would be perfectfor each other. As, you read the messageyou can’t help but eye roll CRINGE…

Whilst wonderingif he has mental health problems, if he’s pining for a partner or just a bit odd as you move on to your nextmessage.

6. The Cheater

He is one shady mother f*cker.He spendsa lot of timemessaging you to keep up the single pretence but really is lookingfor ‘the other woman’. More often than not he will have his six packon displaywithout a photo of his face. This is so he can say it’s someone elseif he gets caught out.

If he’s in a long-term relationshipyou may find a picture of his face because he believes that he won’tget caught. Facebook ruinsthat. If he lives near you on in your localarea, chances are a friend of a friend will know him and out him.

His biowill say something like ‘looking for some fun’ whilst he would of entered ‘not looking for a serious relationship’ when he signed up. Try and stayclear of this type of guy. You may end up riddles with STDS, pregnant or heartbroken.

Or a triple hat-trick.

7. The F*ck Boy

If you’re not down with the lingo… The f*ckboyis someone who wants to get their d*ck wet ALOTand doesn’t carewho they screw overin the process. He is on heatlike a Duracell rabbit. He is usually very attractiveand give youthe impression he is into you when in realitythey are or planningto message multiple girls at once. He would of put ‘looking for a relationship’ on their profile when their not to make out there a nice guy.

Manyturn out to be this type of guy. You can guarantee he is looking for a ‘gap-filler’ girl and suggests ‘Netflix and chill’ or he will say ‘I’ll cook you dinner round mine’ on a Sunday evening. Once, you get involvedwith him he will say he has feelingsfor you, and then retract this saying he told you the situation from the off go. Then, when it suits he will state he has feelingsfor you again.

Simply, a mind f*ck!

He will get jealous if you speak to other guys but won’t want youto spend timewith his friends.By preventingthis, his friends can’t accidentally drop him in it that he is after all the m*nge in the world.

If your friends are also on POF he has likely sent them a cheekymessage too so it’s easierto identify the f*ckboy. If not then look out for texts in the early hours of the morning after his night like ‘You out? Want to come over for a drink?’ If you’ve just got out of a long-term relationship and you want fun go for it. Just always use protectionas you don’t know where he’s been. After all, women have needstoo.

8. Ex Garbage

As so many people are dating online don’t be surprisedif you come across your ex-boyfriendon POF. If you’re stillinto him *sigh* I know this can be tough but he will think you’re over it if he finds you on there too. Stay strong. Whatever you do, don’t message him… The past is the past for a reason!

9. The Chancer

Welcome to the ‘I favourite your account’ guy and sending you sparks. Sparks are images from your profile that he likes and uses to starta picture conversation. That’s it really, you won’t hear from him again or at least not for a week or two, as he is probably favouriting everyone, tryinghis luck.

10. The Foreigner

He is on vacation and has locationsettings turned on. He is exploringoptions, claiming he wants to make friendsin the area and that he will moveto your countryone day. Really he is a temporary versionof the f*ckboy. He has photos with touristic places, and a solid tan (shouting foreign).

Oioi he is HOT. You thinkall is going well.

He speaks your language– what are the chances?

In truth, he WRITES it as good as Google translate. Once, you ask for a voice notethey make excusesand the conversations dies unlessyou can speaktheir mother tongue…
You usually can find out their first dialect from their bio.

There we have it boys and girls. I hope you have found my FAILEDexperience of POF interesting.

Are you on a dating app?If, so – why not comment below?

I would love to hear what type of guys you’ve met virtually or in person on it!

Sharing is Caring

I would love if you shared this post to let others know who they might come across before they sign upto POF.

Like what you see?

Follow me on…

Thanks for Reading,

Lots of Love.

The Blogger Recognition Award 2017

Uncategorized

Hi everybody,

Welcome back.

Brains & Bodies has received its third nomination for a blogging award this year. In my first two weeks of blogging I was surprised to have received two nominations for ‘The Liebster Award 2017’. It seems that the saying third time lucky is in full swing and this time I am proud to announce I was nominated for ‘The Blogger Recognition Award 2017″ by Preeti at Scenario of Life.

Scenario of Life is a lifestyle blog that lets you into everything in Preeti’s world. She is a credible blogger and so far has received nominations for two blogging awards. If you are interested in health and different aspects of life you should check her blog out.

I launched Brains & Bodies about a month ago and since then I have been astonished by its response. Of course, I am no Z list celebrity, but it’s a great feeling to know people enjoy what you are writing and recognize the importance of health and well-being topics. I want to thank everyone who has read my posts to date across different oceans.

Blogging is one of the best things I have ever done for myself mentally and an an amazing opportunity arose this week. I have been asked to be a guest writer for one semester at Cherwell Blogs.

Cherwell Blogs is a blog from the only independent student newspaper at The University of Oxford. I can’t actually believe I am saying that – I am not even a student there. I attend Oxford Brookes so theoretically I am still in the Early Learning Centre being asked to play with the top dogs. Nonetheless, being a guest writer will be a great addition to the CV – and it also gave me a compliment off my mother – which is a rare commodity.

However, I can’t lie I am not your usual blogger. One of my main illnesses – Ehlers Danlos Syndrome still holds me back somewhat as I cannot write every week due to the pain I endure. I accepted the position on the condition I will be writing bi-weekly for them about chronic illnesses related posts– watch this space!

BACK TO THE BLOGGER RECOGNITION AWARD AND ALL THAT JAZZ

Similar to the Liebster Award, The Blogger Recognition Award is given to bloggers by bloggers. Its purpose is to motivate further writing and acknowledge the effort that is involved in generating posts. The award is great for bloggers to review and reward each other’s work to create a supportive blogging community.

Once, nominated… If you wish to accept the nomination there are a few rules to be followed which are;

Produce a post about the award
Thank the blogger who nominated you and provide a link to their blog
Write a brief story about how your blog began
Provide two pieces of advice to newbie bloggers
Select 15 blogs to nominate
Comment on each nominee’s blog and provide a link to the post you made about the award

HOW MY BLOG STARTED

I first was required to create a blog for a University module in the last academic year about Business topics. I didn’t actually receive any likes, comments or shares but I found it was a good way to map out my thoughts more clearly. I didn’t really think about blogging that much more until I became so sick I couldn’t leave bed and I didn’t know how to explain my health problems to others… or whether I should bother anymore. If I tried, I wasn’t able to vocalize it very well. I mean in my mind I was but everyone else would ask me to repeat what I said again which led to frustration and feeling alone.

I own more than one invisible illness – EDS and Depression. On the odd day I left the house I found I was discriminated against on public transport. I was often told to move to let young children sit down on long journeys.

I explained why I needed to sit down but as parents got rowdy I moved yet my nobly knees didn’t thank me for it. I knew I didn’t look sick but I thought once I explained why I needed to sit down people wouldn’t question it. I was wrong. These things combined led a passion to grow in me for raising awareness about disabilities and well-being.

TWO PIECES OF ADVICE FOR NEWBIES

Discover your Writing Style

When you’re a newbie, you will quickly realize you need to find your own voice to stand out in a crowded community. EXPERIMENT with your writing and you will find out what works and what doesn’t. There are many ways to discover your writing style. Play around with words because your posts will need catchy titles to draw people in. Writing in a conversational tone can also help the reader feel connected to you. I suggest you write questions at the end of your posts to engage readers with the contents and don’t worry if you make mistakes. They aren’t really mistakes if you learn from them.

I’ll let you into a secret…

Mistakes are normal if you seek to be a fully pledged citizen of the blogosphere. If you are really stuck then read other blogs. There is no harm in copying the structure of a post as long as you ensure the content IS different.

Raid your Inspiration

What I mean by raid your inspiration, is when inspiration strikes, write! You can always come back to your writing to add more or refine existing content and have several drafts. Proof reading is equally important as writing the original post. It is better to post content you are proud of than writing for the sake of writing because your worried other bloggers are posting every single day and will gain more traffic.

An Extra Tip –Free of charge, of course.

Join a blogging network

Blogging is not an easy ride. Writing is only one half of the process, whilst the other is promotion. My third piece of advice is to join a blogging network. Blogging networks can be hit and miss if they are generic so search for one in your niche. By finding a network you can increase traffic and engagement and gain advice from more experienced bloggers. You can look for a variety of blogging networks on Google but many tend to be on Facebook.

MY NOMINATIONS

Health

Sandra at Forvaerring af symptomer
Jordy and Marjke at Mojo and Friends
Shannon at Little Sea Bear
Rob at Disability 2 Ability
Amber at My Life in Colour
Mohammad at Aarish’s blog
Ali and Scott at Rowdy Gowdy
Pauline at Pauli Ticks (trigger warning: contains strong language)

Lifestyle and Travel

Haylee at Haylee’s Twenty Something Life
Christoph at TrendaBlaze
A.K at The Party Trail
Cassidy at Cassidy’s Adventures
Lily at Richer Insight

Parenting

Danny at Dadoo
Mark at Thoughts of a First Time Dad

Congratulations to all my nominees, you deserve it. I hope you have fun if you choose to take part and I look forward to reading your posts. I would like to thank Preeti again for nominating Brains & Bodies and appreciating my hard work.

READERS… GET INVOLVED
1. What do you think about the award?
2. Do you have any advice new bloggers?
    SHARING IS CARING

I would love if you shared this post to support mine and my nominees’ blogs.

      LIKE WHAT YOU SEE?

                                        Follow me for updates on …
Thanks for reading,

Peace out.

.

The Liebster Award 2017

Uncategorized

I have been fortunate enough to receive not one but two nominations for the Liebster Award. These were from John & Renee at Drink, Eat, Ride and Sella at The Moms Life Cycle. I am so elated and so grateful that they chose me as one of their nominations. If you’re a newbie, sat there wondering what on earth the Liebster Award is, don’t worry I will explain all.

The Liebster Award is a recognition given to bloggers by bloggers that have less than 200 followers. The award is a fantastic way to support newcomers into the blogging community, to learn about and author behind the blog and to boost bloggers’ traffic. The overall idea, is that once you receive a nomination from a fellow blogger, you follow the rules (found here) and publish a post including 5-11 nominations of your choice.

I would also like to THANK John & Renee (the cool pair of Aussies) and Sella for nominating me. John & Renee’s travel blog Drink, Eat, Ride provides great insights into beautiful destinations alongside food and drinks into the countries they visit. You should definitely take a look to get bucket list ideas, if you aspire or already are a keen traveller. If you are a yummy mummy, or one to be .. then check out Sellas blog! Sella lets you into a mothers world from pregnancy, shows you how to spruce up your little ones wardrobe and how to make mouth drawling recipes.

Okay, so let’s begin with TEN RANDOM FACTS ABOUT ME… (I already know I am strange for the record).

1.My party trick is balancing things on my head, it must be really flat or something

2. My favourite smell is mint. Mint makes everything attractive to me. Chewing gum, mojitos, mint shower gel… I want it all.

3. The scariest thing I have ever done was cliff jumping from 15m. I thought I was going to die.

4.My favourite film is Good Will Hunting. I appreciate the storyline because I have always sucked at maths.

5.The first thing I notice about people is their teeth, I have an appreciation for good teeth. I think this is because I am so small (5ft1) so it the first thing I see at my eye level!

6.I find throwing tomatoes at strangers therapeutic. Yes, I said TOMATOES.

7.My biggest fear is sharks. I bleed a lot, they eat people and I don’t want to die that way. Say no more.

8.My worse habit is picking a scab on my head when I am tired. I can’t believe I just admitted that – disgusting, right?

9.I run like a penguin because I have flat feet – I blame Ehlers Danlos Syndrome for that one.

10. I believed for 24 years that Milan was the capital of Italy, until an Italian corrected me. I standby I was half right, it is the fashion capital after all.

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11 QUESTIONS ASKED FROM MY FIRST NOMINATOR

1.What do you enjoy most about blogging?

I like that my blogs help other people learn something new and I can acquire knowledge from other people too.

2. What do you do when you get writer’s block?

I usually take a long bubble bath as I sing to foreign music badly. Spanish music always give me creativity, I love it.

3.Give a tip for other bloggers or potential blog starters:

As my blog is only 2 weeks old I am not sure I am qualified to answer this one… I would have to say blog about something you are passionate about, so you can connect with readers and enjoy writing. Also, I would say don’t give up! Good things take time.

4. Is blogging a full time job for you?

I wish. Blogging is not a full time job for me, but I am find it really addictive and would love it to lead to other opportunities.

5.What has been your favourite country and why?

Spain is my favourite country because I desire a future Spanish husband. No seriously, it is my favourite country because I love the lifestyle, people, food and the language. The language sounds romantic, I have an excuse to sleep in the middle of the day… the people are so friendly and Paella is awesome – what more could you want!?

6. If you would live anywhere in the world where would it be?

Oh gosh, this is a hard question. I would have to say Sydney, Australia. All my friends that have been have all extended their VISAS, so it must have a special vibe to it that makes you never want to leave and it looks pretty!

7.Country or beach?

The beach has to be the winner but probably not for the reason you think. I actually never tan because I enjoy playing around in sand too much. My inner child comes out at the beach. You will find me collecting shells and building sandcastles. I have no shame.

8.What is the ultimate goal for your blog?

I want to create an online community that is able to learn from my blog about invisible and chronic illnesses and provide advice. If I achieve this, I would think it would be pretty AMAZING to write a book one day.

9. What advice would give someone wanting to travel?

My advice would vary on if the person had an illness or not. Soon, I will be publishing a post on this topic but my general advice is save money, research destinations and go and catch the travel bug alone –- you’ll be free and experience so much more this way.

10. What post are you most proud of (got the most shares)?

The post I am happiest with is The chronically ill student’s quick-guide to success because it is the one I published that others found the most useful.

11.What is your favourite travel quote?

I am not entirely sure this is a travel quote but “The world is your oyster” – William Shakespeare. I really like how this quote represents that you can be capable of anything.

MY FAVOURITE BLOG

It is very difficult for me to pick just one blog because I enjoy reading a range of blogs on different topics. My favourite types of blogs are on food, lifestyle, health and travel blogs.

However, if I had to pick just one favourite it would have to be Kendel at Little Miss Adventures. Kendel writes engaging, creative content with such humour on her lifestyle blog. You can find anything from dating to parenting by Kendel as she opens up her world and welcomes you inside it. Every time I read one of hers posts I can’t help but sit there shrieking with laughter like a madwoman. There is a lot of truth in what she writes, which is also relatable to my own life. For example, her most recent on “The *6 Guys you’ll find on Tinder”, resonates with the troubles I have in my current dating life.

MY BLOG NOMINATIONS

Rachel at My Multifaceted Life
Christine at Limitless Ability
Kim at Love your Heart
Leah at Nomad’er the Distance
Jo at Mud and Mayhem with a Splash of Pink
Kim & Kiara at Kim and Kiara’s Great Home School Adventures
Sophie at NXTURES
Jennifer at Adventures in Mommy Life

Congratulations everyone! I look forward to reading your answers and future posts.

11 QUESTIONS FOR MY NOMINEES

1.What hobby/skill do you want to learn?

2. What is your biggest fear?

3. What made you begin blogging?

4.Who is your biggest inspiration and why?

5. What are your three favourite films and why?

6. What is your biggest achievement?

7. Where is on your travel list for 2018 and why?

8. Are you more of a peoples or animals person?

9. What do you hope to achieve from your blog?

10. What is your hidden talent?

11. What advice would you given to someone considering starting a blog?

Thank you once again, John & Renee and Sella for their nominations and to all my nominees – I hope you have a blast, if you choose to take part.

Readers… why not get involved?

If you have a favourite blog – why not share it below?

Lots of Love,

About Me

Uncategorized

Hi world,

To give you a bit of history on me. I am Morgan, a 24 years old Business Student at Oxford Brookes University diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome III at 23.

Before, we start you may want a brief overview of EDS.

EDS’s are a group of rare inherited conditions that make connective tissue weaker*.

* In some instances, EDS can occur in someone without being inherited. Connective tissue is important to support skin, ligaments, blood vessels and internal organs. There are different types of the condition I will explore in another post. However, all types of EDS are affected by weak connective tissue and loose joints.

Unbeknown to me, my journey to illness began in the womb. Many ask me when EDS will end. The response is morbid. The truth is EDS will end when I die because it is incurable.

If you are one of the rare ones who has heard of EDS, you are probably wondering why I am writing this post. I can’t lie, I do worry each second I will dislocate my wrists or fingers. Yet, I still write. Typically, my posts will not be this long. I just wanted to be completely honest with you from the get go.

“Although, some might consider me disabled I am not EDS – it is just a huge part of me”.

It is not unusual for people to see an illness before they see a person. With EDS, its the opposite. You are only ever likely to see the illness if you know the sufferer well.. because on the surface it’s invisible.

“People don’t understand when I can’t do daily tasks”.

Due to the lack of awareness of it people have the wrong misconception that I am extremely lazy – even I believed this for a long time before the diagnosis.

“Unlike many other suffers of EDS, during secondary school I never knew I was different”.

me crab

I made every excuse to get out of P.E because I was in pain but it did not work. I was told I was gifted at gymnastics, whilst I flew into the splits and was doing cartwheels across the floor. I experienced subluxations and dislocations but I thought this was normal. Instead of speaking up about my pain, I turned my attention to being naughty. I got myself excluded more times than I can remember. Teachers thought I was attention seeking but really my fatigue was so bad, I just wanted to sleep.

“I did not have a functioning life for many years“.

I scraped my GCSES but did not care because I aspired to be an artist. I enrolled in college when I was 16 and gain when I was 19 and dropped out both times. I preferred to spend my time drinking alcohol and taking drugs to relax my body.

art

This put I in a downward spiral because when the substances wore off the pain heightened. As a perfectionist, I realized art was not the right career path for me and kept it as a rare hobby.

It became more apparent my body was weak when I coughed so hard I moved a disc in my back and landed myself into hospital. Despite this, for many years GPS would not accept I was in physical pain.

” Are you sure you are eating your 5 a day?” the doctors asked.

I was sent to see CPNS, complex needs and CAMHS who described me as ‘mentally troubled’. The hardest part of my journey is my parents were not completely convinced of my pain either. If I dare mentioned that four letter word, they would say ‘Here she goes again, she is having a Morgan Moment’ – alluding an impulse of craziness.

“I felt like I had no one and became suicidal”.

Going to the doctors and hospitals were weekly chores. I was always poorly yet, no one could find anything wrong with me. I thought perhaps after all this time the doctors were right and it was in my head. So I attended Complex Needs, High Wycombe where I spent time with mentally ill patients . It was there I realized I was not making up my pain. Me and the other patients did not share any symptoms in common – yet I did not want to live another second suffering.

From then to now…

From time to time I still feel suicidal, but I have come a long way since I was 17. I enrolled into college again when I was 21 to do Business and completed the course. I drink alcohol occasionally but I do not take illegal drugs anymore. Don’t get me wrong, the temptation is still there but I am trying to live a healthier life. My diagnosis has made this easier, with the support from my family and friends.

Me and my family a few years ago.

“By my own admission, socially I am unreliable”.

A lot of people stopped wanting to be my friend.I never know if I am going to have enough energy to see my friends. Going out for a meal, or to the cinema takes me to the point of physical exhaustion.

University life…

I started University 5 years late compared to everyone else because I mentally and physically would not have coped. Due to low blood pressure I spend a lot of time in bed. I was also diagnosed with Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, photo-sensitivity and a vitamin D deficiency. I was told the course would be too difficult for me to succeed and to think of a vocational alternative. Through blood, sweat and tears I managed to prove everyone wrong and pass the first year.

“Allergies, Intolerances and Me”…

I was born lactose intolerant but after a few years I was given the green light to drink milk again. In hindsight, whether the intolerance ever went away, I am not sure. I developed OCD because each time I ate I would be sick or have the shits. I was uncomfortable food caused me pain but I liked the fact I was super thin.

“ I was often mistaken for being anorexic“.

When I was 21 years old, I went into severe anaphylaxis. Shortly, after an allergy prick test confirmed I had developed an allergy to nuts and gluten. The test also showed I was lactose intolerant.

In my head – I was a freak. I had never met anyone else with multiple food allergies.

nut

“Changing the way I ate was the hardest thing I have ever done”.

I am in love with sugar and I can’t really cook that well.. Living off processed TV dinners and comfort food was my safe haven. The task to change my diet, was almost impossible for me. Doctors became concerned I would die.

I began to see an Adult Nutritionist for months religiously, who was my rock. Without her, I would not be here writing this today.

Share the Love

I would love if you supported me and followed/ liked my new Facebook page.

I do not know if this blog will be a success or not- but I need a hobby for all the hours I spend ill in bed. I really want to use this space and start up a YouTube channel to discuss content on mine and other peoples conditions to raise awareness.

I also want to provide support to anyone who feels they are alone.

Thanks for meeting me.

my name

Welcome

Uncategorized

Hello, random person.

Thank you for visiting and welcome aboard my health train.

From Morgan.

This blog sparked from a famous Meme that I was getting tagged in frequently, as seen below.

meme

I found it very difficult to eat when I was diagnosed with food allergies and an intolerance in 2014. Gluten and nuts was all I knew, with lactose for the most part. I kept thinking how I am meant to figure this out alone.

“I wish more information was readily available to make my life easier“.

In 2016, my world came crashing down. I was then diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome III, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia in the space of two months. These revelations made my depression and anxiety heighten.

I am going to use space to;

-Discuss mine and others medical conditions and sensitivities to raise awareness

-Provide information on how to identify symptoms

-Explore journeys to diagnoses

-Give you tips on how to live a happy and healthier life.

I hope my blog will evolve into an online community that share my posts by finding them engaging and useful.

Want to know more about me? Click here.

As a new blogging enthusiast, I would love if you showed your support and followed my new Facebook page.

I am happy to provide honest advice on any questions you have.

Lots of Love,

my name

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