Finally have the nerve to join

[stillhere]

Hi everyone!

I decided to stop lurking and actually join. Somehow I survived physical, emotional, sexual, and verbal abuse mostly by members of my household. I ended up being diagnosed with an autoimmune condition in my teens. Once I moved out of the house and had little to no contact with my family, my condition improved to the point where I went years without a single symptom and was actually able to stop all medications. After I got married, contact with my family gradually increased to the point of having regular contact again. Autoimmune condition returned with a vengeance and I have been dealing with symptoms on an almost daily basis for the past 20 years
I regret resuming contact, and have been contemplating going back to limited/no contact for my own well being. I spent so many years considering everyone else's feelings. Now I need to consider my own. I am grateful that this is a safe place to both share my story and support others.

Thanks for listening (reading)

[Harmony]

Hi stillhere,

Great job posting. That was the scariest part, the first post. I totally relate to the autoimmune stuff. It has been a plague for me during stressful time of life. You are among friends here. We understand and have great compassion for you.

Welcome to isurvive,

Harmony

[johnram]

Hi Stillhere,

sorry to hear its been a challenge for you, you are in good and loving company here

I hope you can detach yourself, appreciate its complicated, but i hope you can put your needs front and centre

wishing you well

[Jonesy]

Hi stillhere

A warm welcome to isurvive - glad you found us

[jimscarlet]

Oh,yes,your body knows the score,listen to it.Bravo,for fighting the good fight!

[EasyStreet]

I took a leap of faith and joined and am so happy that I did.

People who understand me. What a concept.

Glad you are with us.

[stillhere]

Thank you all for the very warm welcome!