[1] Recognize that the illness is chronic
You will swim through the phases of grief for the rest of your life,
because with a chronic condition comes new limitations as the illness
progresses. Don't be too hard on yourself; reach out to others, build
up friendships with those that understand, pursue new hobbies that get
your mind off of the illness, take a second look at your faith and how
this effects it.

[2] Be a good advocate for your health.
You know your body better than anyone else and the likelihood is that
you will get tons of well-meaning advice from both friends and
strangers. Be discerning in what you choose to follow and what you
choose to let go. Kindly thank those that offer their advice but don't
make any promises or feel obligated to try anything they offer.

[3] Do research on new medications and study possible alternative
treatments carefully.
Be wise in how much money you invest in alternative treatments; don't
continue to dump money into alternative treatments when the
practitioners continue to offer promises and testimonials. Recognize
that alternative supplements are not regulated by the FDA and may not
be as effective as they claim or even safe.

[4] Choose your doctors carefully
Ask for referrals. Find a doctor who your personality clicks with.
Don't be demanding or act like you know more than s/he does, even if
you occasionally do. Build a team of doctors that is willing to work
with you to give you the best quality of life.

[5] Refuse to give into bitterness
It's easy to get caught up in the blues of "but they don't
understand!" and "they are so lucky and they don't even appreciate
it!" Defy the tendency to feel sorry for yourself and instead choose
joy. One of the best books I've read on the this topic is Tim Hansel's
"You Gotta Keep Dancin'."

[6] Step outside yourself
Even if you aren't happy about the diagnosis, in time you will witness
others going down this same path and you may have a desire to reach
out. Follow that passion! Reaching out to another person who is
dealing with similar circumstances can be healing for both of you and
will give your illness purpose, even on the days with great physical
pain.

[7] Get a grip on guilt
It's natural, especially if you have a family, to feel intense
feelings of guilt that you are bringing everyone down with you.
Recognize that this illness is not a judgment or

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