[Guest]

Just wondering how your first week back worked out. I read one of your postings saying that the first day was awful, what happened? Hope the rest of the week went better for you. I go back Monday. I'm hoping my IBS will stay under control. K

 

[Guest]

Hello K.Thanks so much for caring. It means a lot.The first day back was awful because not only did I feel terrible, but my teachers all expected me to do all of the work I had missed from the three weeks before Christmas break plus the work that was assigned that day. Christmas break was pretty tough for me, so I didn't get a lot of work accomplished then. In my journalism class, in which I am editor-in-chief, my class mates didn't make the day any easier on me. They told me I was being a "discouragement" to the class when I showed up. I know that they didn't mean to hurt me, they are all close friends of mine, but I think they went about it all wrong. The adviser and the other editors pretty much sat in a circle around me telling me that I al not effectively leading the class. Almost the entire class is new to journalism and so is the adviser, so I pretty much teach the class because I've had a bit of experience. If the adviser had a problem with me, she should have told me in private. They made me feel completely unwanted and made me feel like my illness is what is bringing the class down. The problem is that I am a classis perfectionist and everything on the the paper or in any other area of my life must be "perfect." Unfortunately, everyone else in the class flat out doesn't care what the paper looks like and they think I am the bad guy because I want to make all possible corrections.So, because of this and also because my health is worsening, I decided to quit journalism effective the beginning of the new semster in late January. I only wanted the paper to be as good as last year when my paper got second best in Orange County, CA. This decision, although it was difficult to make, should help my health. Other than the usual daily stresses, I have uliminated the most obvious causes of stress in my life. I quit my job at the Nature Co. and I'm out of journalism. I will definitely benefit from this "relaxation period."I went to a support group yesterday which was helpful. I've never really talked much to anyone who has IBS. And I am attending a teen chronic illness support group my health psychologist is putting on on Tuesdays for 10 weeks which starts this week.Hopefully wellness will start to come my way. I am walking for about 3 miles about 5 times a week, I am seeing my psychologist, motility doctors, an anesthesiologst, and a biofeedback therapist. And I am also following a limited, yet sensible given the situation, diet.I hope I am finding you guys feeling well. Thanks for listening,Lindsey

 

[Guest]

Sounds like a bummer. I'm sorry you had to quit journalism, but you're right, the reduction in stress should help out a little. Some people just don't understand what we're going through. But just think, you'll be outta there come June! Try not to get too stressed out about school, it's not worth hurting your health over! I start again tomorrow, I'm hoping everything will run smoothly. The only thing that worries me is that I have wall to wall classes, with one 45 minute break in the middle of the day. This worries me, because I always have to run to the bathroom about an hour after lunch, but now I'll be in class. Hopefully, I'll be able to wait! Take care. K

 

[Rose]

Sorry to hear that you had to give up on journalism, but you will probably find the stress reduction a real plus. Don't ever feel guilty for the others not winning any awards this year. Remember they only reap what they sow. Take care and remember to talk with your other teachers about realistic goals. Expalin to them that with a chronic illness, even when you attend class that they may be your limit of achievement for the day. One step at a time. Glad to hear that there are some other teens with chronic illnesses that you'll be able to talk to.

 

[IBS2]

Linny, I may be off base here, but I'd like to give you my thoughts. First, I think it's good all the work you're doing on getting your IBS under control. That said, I'm reminded of one of the posts from Doctor J, who stated that the patients, in his experience, who did the best were the patients who learned to accept their IBS. Life, like IBS is not an all or nothing situation. IBS will present some limitations and to whatever extent you must learn to live within those limitations. My point is, if the journalism was stressful, find a way to reduce the stress, without dropping out. Don't be the chief, but be a damn good indian. If you don't have the time, at least be a consultant to the group. You're 17, but sound like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Take it from me kid, it's too much weight to carry. There's an old saying in surgery that states "Perfection is the enemy of Good". Trying being good for awhile, it ain't so bad.Regards,Tom

 

[Guest]

Linny: I have been a perennial student getting all my education (except one college course) at night. I got my BA at 37 and my Masters in Public Health when I was 47. I have always wanted perfection but found over the years that aiming for excellence is much more achievable then perfection. I suggest dont quit go on and you'll find it so much easier when you realize that excellence is "A OK" also. You've got the intelligence and the drive to be a great student and journalist dont let the madding crowd dissuade. Never let anything keep you from a dream. Almost all my dreams became goals and I didnt let anyone or anything stop me. I have seen the world, I have studied, I have toiled and have accomplished what I set out to do. May you realize that you can do anything you make up your mind to do even if you have some set backs, still keep on advancing towards your goal. I love your spirit---do not give up on yourself, I won't let you!

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