Graves' Disease Support Group
Graves-Basedow disease is a medical disorder that may manifest several different conditions including hyperthyroidism (over activity of thyroid hormone production), infiltrative exophthalmos (protruberance of one or both eyes and associated problems) and infiltrative dermopathy (a skin condition usually of the lower extremities). This disorder is the most common cause of...
I recently began attending a new church in the area for the past 6 months or so. My daughters sunday school teacher caught my attention immediately. I always tell my hubby that once u have this disease you can pick out others who also have it immediately. I heard gossip recently that she does indeed have GD but has not officially announced it. I want to approach her but I feel she may get offended if I say "so I heard gossip you have GD" or " I can tell u have GD because you look like me" GD is a very fragile disease mentally and I just don't want to hurt her feelings. I'm sure she knows my ordeal because I was on the prayer list this pas sept when I had the decompression surgery. I keep thinking,if she needs a friend she will come to me. I would love to have a friend so close that I can talk to and hang out with..someone who REALLY understands my battles and does not pretend to. Am I being selfish? I know she is going through a divorce which is probably due to the GD issues because men have a hard time understanding the changes caused by GD(the shallow ones anyway). So, now that I've practically wrote a book, what do you all think I should do? Keep my mouth shut and wait for her to seek me or ask her if she needs a friend?
It's kinda like people asking me out in the public why I use a wheelchair for long distance walking. Huh???
You are right, many of us feel so vulnerable out in the lime light with our health problems. I remembered for several years when I became chair-ridden from the RA I didn't want to go any where. I also began with anxiety/panic attacks from the fear of getting out of the house to face anyone. I was afraid to attend the book study clubs I belonged to.
Well, guess what? I pushed myself in the last year and finally went somewhere and began attending the book study clubs again. Yay!
Take care... :-)
If that person wishes not to share then its best to respect that and leave the door open for the future should this person decide they wish to reach out.