Welcome to Spoony Stories ❤️🥄 Sharing stories is a powerful reminder that we're not alone. Each week, we share stories from our vibrant community to hear all about their experiences being neurodivergent, chronically ill and disabled, and to get to know some of the voices that make our Spoony community so wonderful. This week, we chat with Bonnie from Australia!
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Welcome to Spoony Stories ❤️🥄 Sharing stories is a powerful reminder that we're not alone. Each week, we share stories from our vibrant community to hear all about their experiences being neurodivergent, chronically ill and disabled, and to get to know some of the voices that make our Spoony community so wonderful.
This week, we chat with Bonnie from Australia! Thanks for sharing your story! ❤️
Are you neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled?
Chronically ill and neurodivergent.
What health conditions do you have?
Pelvic and Bowel Endometriosis and Barrett's Oesophagus.
I've had symptoms for as long as I can remember, but was only diagnosed at 26. I've had three surgeries - one diagnostic, two excision - since 2008. Every single one showed my pelvic and reproductive organs were glued together and then adhered to the plaque of Endo on the back wall of my pelvis.
How do you explain your health conditions to other people?
I tell people how it impacts my day, I’m very honest about how it affects me. Going to the toilet is a process, moving around is hard work. I’ve realised over the years that honesty is the best way forward, it's not my problem if people find that conversation confronting.
What impact do your health conditions have on your daily life?
I’m in pain most days. At the moment, I can’t even go for a walk around the block without intense preparation. My health affects every aspect of my life; what I eat, what I wear and even if I can do my job. If I’m struggling physically but not experiencing brain fog, I can work. But if it’s a brain fog day, work is impossible.
What barriers have you experienced in making friends and connecting with people?
I’m neurodivergent so I’ve always found making friends really difficult. I have issues trusting people due to being taken advantage of in the past. I’ve also lost some friends and family because they think that I’m overreacting and don’t believe how much Endo impacts my life. It can be really isolating.
What's been your experience on Spoony so far?
It’s been really great to meet new people. I’m lucky to have found some lovely online friends. I'm looking forward to seeing what in person events will happen in the future because I want more community in my life.
Each week, we share stories from the incredible Spoony community in our newsletter, podcast, and on social media. Share your story with us.