How You Can Support Those Living with Chronic Illness Experts encourage people to listen and give the “gift of presence” to the chronically ill. Learn what to say and do to help. by Mary J. Yerkes NABBW’s Living With Chronic Illness Expert For many, the most distressing consequence of chronic illness is social isolation. Friends, once plentiful, suddenly stop calling. Family members, unable to understand your physical and emotional limitations, grow resentful and accuse you of failing to “pull your weight.” Even churches, a supposed refuge for the hurting, tell you they lack... Read More

Chronic Illness: A Four-Phase Journey to a New Life: Move from Surviving to Thriving in the New Year By Mary J. Yerkes NABBW’s Living With Chronic Illness Expert This year, instead of promising to lose weight again, resolve to discover your new, authentic self. One of the most difficult challenges facing the chronically ill is the loss of identity they often feel. Things they once did with ease, they can no longer do. Over time, the reality settles in —the person they once were is gone. There is no going back. Now what? It’s true that your chronic illness severely affects every area of... Read More