FND Awareness Day
It was five years ago I became bedridden with unexplained symptoms. The year before, I was travelling around the world solo, running a business and working out at the gym. I didn’t think I would get sick, people with chronic illnesses rarely do. But it was one of the worst years of my life. A sense of confusion, not belonging, bitterness towards the world and hoping for it to all go away.
I am #FNDAware
I was diagnosed with FND Functional Neurological Disorder. A neurological condition, one that is still underfunded and misunderstood. A common way of describing FND is that the brain sends the wrong signals to the nervous system. Although the government has announced investing in FND, there is still a long way to go.
Remember your feelings are valid and you are allowed to mourn. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of ableism and people who have never heard of the illness who get to decide on treatment, or lack of.
One day at a time.
Chronic Illnesses & Ramadan
Ramadan & Chronic Illnesses
People with chronic illnesses can find it hard to participate in religious/cultural events, but that doesn’t make them any less as a person. With Ramadan beginning it’s a reminder that you don’t need to ask anyone whether or not they are fasting.
Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. The fast is broken with a meal called Iftar, traditionally starting with dates and water, followed by a larger meal. The pre-dawn meal before fasting begins is called Suhoor.
Who is Exempt from Fasting?
Certain people are exempt from fasting, including:
Children who have not reached puberty
The elderly and those with chronic illnesses
Pregnant and nursing women (if fasting is difficult)
Travellers
Menstruating women (they make up the missed fasts later)
What you can do instead?
Give to charity
Volunteer
Increase your knowledge
We recommend speaking to your doctor and local Imam about your circumstances and ask them for advice. You also know your body best.
Ramadan Mubarak to all.