Lexington Woman (Vol IV, 2009)– Vital Energy,
By Susan Moore.
Fibromyalgia has been a complete disruption to my life. I have handled many difficult situations – physically, emotionally, and financially with myself, family, and friends. I have been strong and determined in these situations, often having others lean on me. Fibromyalgia has stopped me dead in my tracks. I have experienced the pain of child birth and kidney stones, but the seemingly unbelievable and unexplainable pain of fibromyalgia has nearly done me in, and the worst part is that no one can see my pain. There is no case, brace, or bandaid to show them where I hurt. They cannot understand why I can do something one day and barely get out of the bed the next.
Fibromyalgia is a very isolating disease. Little is known about it and some doctors still won’t accept it as a disease. As a sufferer, I have found it difficult to find help that works for me. I have spent the last few years in search of doctors, therapists, and medicines that would relieve my pain. I eventually discovered that the physical pain, no matter how devastating, is only a part of the disease. I have been emotionally destroyed trying to fight this disease. My mental stability is seriously at risk. It is not just that I can no longer do the physical things I could do before, but I can’t even take care of the mental aspects of life (i.e. finances, appointments, kid’s school and sports). I am in a state of morning over the loss of my old self.
Luckily for me I have recently found an understanding physician, helpful pain medication, and a good counselor. But the most wonderful discovery I have made is Vital Energy and its founder Hima Dalal. When you walk in the door of this therapy center you immediately feel a sense of peace and comfort. You are surrounded by competent people who truly care. It is obvious that Hima accepts fibromyalgia as a real disease with devastating effects that must be approached from all angles.
Hima has addressed my pain through a variety of therapeutic techniques such as paraffin, IFT, massage, and strengthening excercises. But even more importantly she has helped me gain an understanding of fibromyalgia and what I must do to manage the disease. Together we have explored my various responsibilities in life. Hima has helped me to develop ways to cope with being a wife, mother, homemaker, etc. and still take time for myself. I am learning to listen to my body signals so that I rest and rejuvenate when my body needs it. This has allowed me to be more productive on my good days. The reiki and other techniques Hima uses have reduced my anxiety and increase my self confidence. I am rediscovering the strength I once had. Before I found Vital Energy I was one step from giving up on life. Now I have a renewed sense of hope. I will not let fibromyalgia rule me. Instead with the help of Hima Dalal and Vital Energy I will learn to rule the disease.
