As a single mother juggling a career and raising children, life can feel like a subtle balancing act. Adding a chronic illness to the mix makes it even more challenging. Kathryn Larouche Imler shares her own experience with this in her memoir Burning Rubber, a compelling story of perseverance through illness as a registered nurse and single mom. For women facing similar circumstances, her journey offers hope and practical advice.
Accepting the New Reality
When chronic illness strikes, the life you know gets turned upside down. Accepting this new reality is difficult but necessary. As described in Burning Rubber, Kathryn had to come to terms with medical conditions like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) and Fibromyalgia (FM) that forced her into early retirement from nursing. The loss of purpose and independence is emotionally devastating. Allowing yourself time to grieve is important. But eventually, you must shift focus to adapting and moving forward within your new limitations.
Seeking Support
Don’t try to power through it alone. Single moms often feel pressure to be the superwoman who can handle everything. But everyone needs help sometimes. Reach out to friends, family, and community resources. Connect with others dealing with the same illness through support groups and online forums. Managing doctor’s appointments and childcare is especially difficult when you’re sick – accept assistance from loved ones when offered. Kathryn’s memoir illustrates the importance of a strong support system.
Prioritizing Self-Care
Self-care must be a priority when managing chronic illness. Get enough rest, eat nutritious meals, exercise if possible, and say no to extra responsibilities. Listen to your body’s signals. Pace yourself to avoid crashes of fatigue or pain flare-ups. Learning to balance self-care while parenting and working takes practice. As described in Burning Rubber, Kathryn’s battle with post-exertional malaise taught her she had to put her health first in order to be there for her kids.
Exploring Treatment Options
Work closely with your medical team to explore all treatment options. Be your own advocate in seeking solutions to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Consider medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, counseling for coping strategies, support groups, alternative therapies, and more. Kathryn’s memoir recounts her frustrating journey through the healthcare system but also the small victories in finding treatments that helped. Everybody is different – stay open to trying various approaches.
Finding Purpose within Limitations
When illness takes away aspects of your identity – employee, active parent, independent woman – it’s normal to feel a loss of purpose. Focus on the things you can still do, and look for new meaningful activities adapted to your health restrictions. Simplify and let go of perfectionism. Enjoy special moments with your kids. Take up a new soothing hobby if required. Rediscover old passions or find new ones. As described in Burning Rubber, Kathryn eventually found renewal through writing and sharing her story to support others.
Kathryn Larouche Imler’s memoir Burning Rubber offers an honest account of her challenges and triumphs as a chronically ill single mom. For people facing a similar situation, her story provides comfort, wisdom, and inspiration. With resilience, self-compassion, and support, you can continue living a meaningful life.
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