Warmer | Navigating dynamic and chronic disability as a student and/or worker

Talk with me about navigating dynamic and chronic disability as a student and/or worker

Eli M.

MY STORY

I used to be an enthusiastic and competitive martial artist (MMA, BJJ, and Shotokan karate), and I was looking to go to nationals and be a student athlete in college. About six years ago, at my first training session during college, I injured both my right knee and right elbow, and the six years since have been filled with entirely different mindsets, medical needs, energy levels, and physical capabilities. Since then, I have had numerous medications, an untold number of doctors and Urgent Care visits, two surgeries that ended up not helping much, and a possible diagnosis of HSD (Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder). The sudden switch from being a hyper-independent athlete to needing help just to get food had a large toll on my mental health, especially since I was just moving out and starting college (COVID would start 6 months later). However, these experiences have also helped me understand the importance of community and interdependence, and I've found a voice in disability advocacy.

WHAT WE CAN TALK THROUGH IN A SESSION

Finding reliable resources you can use when experiencing anxiety or flare-ups

Accepting any new abilities or limitations and working with yourself

Dealing with loss of ability to participate in previously loved activities or sports

Access to information about various forms of disability advocacy

HOW YOU MIGHT FEEL AFTER WE TALK

Hopefully, you feel more optimistic about your ability to navigate and handle the uncertainty and chaos that come with chronic and dynamic conditions. I hope you also feel like you can still pursue a path in life that you want and feel you can realistically reach.

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