MENTAL HEALTH CHECK-IN**
I think these times are weird, and uncertain. I want to check-in with everyone in the community. How is everyone doing? What are some great things that have happened? Are you struggling with something? Are you okay?
I sincerely hope everyone is doing okay. -Ze (H-I-V.net team member)
, It's been a rough summer. A new job that's sorely understaffed. My husband had a tumor removed from his bladder, and we had to decide to let both our dogs cross over on the same day. There are some days when the emotions are just overwhelming.
I'm using the tools in my arsenal to push back against the anxiety and depression and focus on the task at hand so I don't get overwhelmed with 'what ifs' and things that 'might' happen.
It is always hard for me to find something good. My furry pain pal had to have surgery on his eye yesterday and he made it through just fine! I was worried because he will be 12 on Halloween and I just cannot lose him. Now we have to focus on his recovery.
I am struggling with my disability renewal. They feel like my T-cell count is high enough for me to be around people & work again, but my doctor does not! When I was diagnosed my t-cell count was only 5, It has improved since I have been on medication. I am still under the 400-500 targeted mark. I am very worried about what they will decide at the end of the month. - Heather R (team member)I hope that you are taking care of yourself during these tribulations. I know what it's like when our fur babies are not doing well. I know from your posts that you are a strong person. I'm sending you some good energy.
I'm freaking out right now. I've been on disability since 94, infected in 91. I turn 65 in May and lose my long term disability from the hospital I worked as an RN. I'm going to be forced to find employment in order to live because my ssdi is only 945. I can't imagine my regular ss will be much more and I can't live on that. I also have MS.
it must be so scary facing that, and so uncertain! Since you're also living with MS, I would post your questions on this discussion forum as well: https://multiplesclerosis.net/forums/applying-for-disability-1
In the meantime, here is one person's story on appealing - https://h-i-v.net/living/social-security-disability-appeal
Please keep us posted, we're here to listen during what sounds like a really tough process. - Liz (Team Member)
Alafia (Peace) Ze What a difference a year makes. I am in a much better place mentally, physically, spirituality and emotionally. I am back to work, teaching at the college level and speaking and presenting at conferences again. Feeling good. Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member)
