Basic Stuff
- Name: Rielle
- Country: Canada
- State: British Columbia
- City: Kaslo
- Gender: Female
- Age: 52
- Education: Masters Degree
- Primary Illness: ME/CFS
- Diagnosis:
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)
- Postural Orthostatic Tachcycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Year Illness Began: 2020
Functioning Interrupted
Work Interrupted
- Former Occupation: Head teacher
- Job Responsibilities at Former Occupation:
I had a one room school on 30 acres of forest with 12 students k-5. I focused on nature and community with lots of arts and no technology. My dream job, my original curriculum. Before that I taught music and art k-12 for 20 years
- Years of Work Lost: 2
- Current Work Status: On disability
Income Interrupted
- Yearly Income Before Becoming Ill:
CA $90,000
- Yearly Income From Disability:
CA $42,000
-
Minimum Current Annual Income Loss:
CA $58,059
- Total Projected Economic Losses For Years Not Worked:
CA $193,765
Other Interruptions
- I reduced my work hours
- I left my job or retired early
- I took on jobs with less responsibilities than I otherwise would have
Most Impactful Loss
Physical ability, mental capacity, emotional strength, social life, sex life.
My Story
January 2020 I was at the peak of my career. 45 and considering doing my phd. I had stress from all sides, work, family, personal and then I got sick. For weeks. Nobody could tell me anything except I was extremely exhausted. Went back part time for a while but had to retire early. The last almost 7 years have been hell. When my gp finally diagnosed me in 2022 he said " well, there's no test, no treatment, and no cure. You're probably going to want antidepressants ". I waited 4 years for the experts to sign me up for zoom classes for selfcare. Ive been to the er a couple times, Nobody has a clue what MECFS is. But im no quiter so I researched, found groups, advocated for myself. I went traveling, I make crafts for a farmers market. And I've changed as a person. This past September around my 52nd birthday I fell into a bad crash and considered MAID. I still keep the idea as a mental and emotional safety net for when that time might come when barely living isn't OK anymore. I feel great solidarity with the MECFS community even though we are so isolated. I strive for a peaceful life, enjoying nature and letting the world be at a distance. There's not much more to say. My body wants to go into cellular hibernation and my spirit must be at peace. Its a heavy weight to carry.
