One of the toughest things has always been giving up activities... And I have spoken about having to lose parts of my identity because of illness.
What I do think is absolutely crucial is having an image of myself - a complete identity - that has NOTHING to do with my illness.
My illness does not make me who I am. Who I am dictates how I relate to my illness and how I am able to live my life AND deal with the illness, instead of seeing it as a fight between me and the illness itself.
So who am I? How do I see myself?
Here is my description of myself - no illness involved:
I consider myself an athlete. I am an artist - specifically a musician and singer. I am as stubborn as a mule, confident, and passionate. I will do absolutely anything for people that I love, and I expect the same. I am inherently a rule follower and I shy away from confrontation - unless I have been unforgivingly crossed or if I have so much evidence that any argument that I make can absolutely not be refuted.
I am a happy person. I love my life, I love my family and friends, and I love taking my time to enjoy small moments and small victories.
Yes I am sick - but it is a small part of who I am.