Chronic: A condition that last for a long time or that is constantly recurring
I had never given much thought to the meaning of the word “chronic condition” until three years ago when I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder of the chronic variety. Of course, I knew what chronic meant. But a theoretical awareness of this”C” word is one thing but a daily relationship with chronic is something completely different. It was hard to accept that the morning when you wake up and the symptoms of your illness have suddenly lifted was not going to arrive. It slowly dawned how things had changed. There were limitations, precautions, pain, treatment protocols. There was also a shift in my identity which brought along with it grief about my life before this chronic happening. A grief that moved through denial, anger, depression towards acceptance and back again through the cycle. I became acutely aware of another “C” word.
Cure: to be rid of something detrimental
It also became apparent how little I had thought about this “C” word. I am very grateful that treatment is available for me . But being declared cured is not in the cards. I was also surprised that there was a creeping shame that surrounded this. Having something chronic stood for failure in a system where cure is the only acceptable outcome. Looks like what was left was the next “C” word.
Cope: deal effectively with something difficult
Contemplating this word I realized how I had framed coping through a victim’s lens. This meant just finding a way to get by. Coping has begun to emerge as creative adaptations into life circumstances that cannot be controlled or changed. I also realized that we all have faced areas that are chronic challenges. This points onward to the next “C” word.
Courage: strength in the face of difficulties and grief
It takes a tremendous amount of courage to step into life as it presents itself. Remembering that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to live with an open heart. Which brings me to the last “C” word.
Comedy: lightness and laughter
Good medicine for what ails you. Cookie has the last word.
