“It’s a marathon not a sprint”

I was recently on winter holidays in Italy. If you follow me on instagram (here) you would see the pictures from that place. It was absolutely amazing 🙂 The view, the weather… everything was perfect. I was skiing from noon until the last ski lift and enjoyed empty slopes and the sun. But most importantly, this trip allowed me to think about the past years of struggle with Hashimoto’s desease. Throughout the years there has been a lot of ups and downs (like in everything in life, honestly). Many hours spent on the internet researching for tips to cope with the condition not to mention the numerous doctor’s appointments. This whole experience made me realise that fighting with an autoimmune desease is a marathon not a sprint! Obviously, I know more than before the treatment, I understand my “enemy” and can cope with the unpleasant symptoms. Yet, I still struggle, I learn and I research.

Why am I writing all of this now? I would like to let you know that you have to be patient, you need to realise that the results will not be seen overnight. But foremost, you cannot let the condition control your life. It sounds obvious but in reality it is very difficult to master. You need to live your life as you did before, enjoy the things you have done (like sports, travelling or going out with friends) with a little moderation according to the Hashimoto’s journey of your choice. Be greateful for what you have and remember that everything can be achieved. Don’t stay at home only because you have an autoimmune desease but also do not force yourself to anything that you do not feel.

I know that this article is a little pep talk but I felt that I has to write those things to you. I was blocking myself from people around me because of my condition and I let it control me for far too long. Don’t make my mistakes and live your life to the fullest. Consider your illness as an ally and you will be more happy in an instance.I wish you all the strength you have to be happy 🙂 And here is a little picture to set a toast 😉