Attendance: 11

Donations Received:  $17

This was our "Valentine's Day" party meeting.

We played our annual Valentine's Day Card game. Each member received a Valentine's Day card that we written in (anonymously) by each member at the table. The sentiments were all positive and uplifting! 

We had lots of food! Thank you to all who brought in goodies to share!

One member discussed her journey towards leaving work on disability. Support was given by members at the table. Those who have already negotiated the process offered their perspective.

One member discussed his hospitalization on the first of the year for a week. He was extremely sick with Rhabdomyolosis. He shares that this was the most painful experience of his life. He shares he is still very weak and fatigued. Members expressed concern and their happiness to see him at the table.

One member is considering starting a new career which would require her to go back to college. She shares that the field she is interested in is not a degree that currently exists, but more of a blend of two degrees. The group wished her well. 

Members shared how important balance is with keeping their illness in check

Members shared how over-committing during a remission can sometimes cause a "flare up" of symptoms. All members agree that this "balance" is difficult to achieve.

One member shares going on an antidepressant. She states she is starting to feel more herself. Others at the table share that they are now, or have in the past, been on an antidepressant.

One member shares that antidepressants are now commonly prescribed by doctors for chronic pain. Several members agree and have heard this.

One member is struggling to do home renovations that are pressing. He is able to do the work himself but shares how he can be "down for the count" for a day or DAYS after working on the house. 

Members at the table agree that disability income makes it difficult to hire people to do work for you and so we must balance the cost vs. the toll doing the work takes on our body.

Next meeting schedule for Saturday, March 14th, 2020

Ice Breaker: If you could have a Super Power, what would it be and why?

Remember, Ice Breakers are a way for us to get to know each other on a deeper level. We include the upcoming Ice Breaker ahead of time where possible to give you a chance to think about your answer!  Each member will be given 1-2 minutes to answer. Participation in Ice Breaker is optional. You always have the right to say "pass". You are never required to share.