In 2014, I was diagnosed with Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease, which essentially is a systemic autoimmune disease where my immune system attacks everything to varying levels of intensity.
It’s pretty great.
Throughout this process, I’ve been forced to learn a few things. I by no means have done this alone, nor can I take credit for being something I’m not. But sometimes when life changes drastically, you do too, or you pass away.
This article has been written a gazillion times, but as any great writer would say: if it's repeated, it's important.
1. Fight or flight response.
No, seriously. Breath. I get so caught up in the most ridiculous fears, stupidest insecurities and most difficult life choices that if I don’t take a second or two for a deep breath, I’ll be overwhelmed. The fastest way to chill may be the refrigerator, but a few deep breaths can go a long way. It lowers anxiety and helps to reset your body’s fight or flight response. I would recommend having an air fresher on hand just in case.2. Let people help you.
One of the most difficult things for me is to admit I need help. Growing up I learned quickly that if I didn’t make it happen, it wouldn’t. This led to me try and be the best in everything that I did, and naturally I became quite arrogant and a butt head. When I got sick, I realized that I couldn’t face this alone. Trust me, I tried too, but it became so overwhelming that it took me to some dark extremes.
Getting help when its needed isn’t a sign of weakness, it's a sign of humility. I had to swallow my pride and admit “Hey, so this whole fighting a weird disease thing? Yeah, I could use some help.” Surrounding yourself with people who care will improve your mental stability and remind you that there is still good out there.
3. Do what you love.
Ok, so I know this one is like Cheese Fest 9000, but hey, it's the American dream. The most sought after idea in the world, second probably only to how to make the best cute cat videos. More than ever, I learned the importance of doing what I love. For me, that is music. There is no greater freedom than that
In the early stages, I couldn’t play drums (my first love) as the pain became so severe. Walking was at times too difficult. I became crazy depressed as I watched my world disappear. Right before the onset of the disease, I had the most epic timing win ever: I built myself a simple recording studio. I learned that even if I can’t walk, I can play a keyboard and yell into a microphone, and thus, my production career began.
The early stuff is fairly rough, and kind of negative, but it became my outlet. I would pour hours into it. I had to tell my story
While this is a short and limited list, it's enough to get anyone started. Perspective is key here. Take these tools and don’t get held back. Reach out. Learn how to love, and accept it in return. Now go hug someone and look for something to laugh about!
