In June 2024, I signed up for Ticket-to-Work through SSA, and started working part-time.

In Aug 2024, I started working full-time with the goal of gaining access to private health insurance. I signed up for private health insurance this month, October, and my plan is much better than Medicare. My specialist copays cost half the price!!!!

I never thought that having a rare illness, Hereditary Angioedema, would help me land a job. It turns out giving myself IV infusions came in handy. I work in blood collections.

Lupus SLE: I received a second opinion on Aug 16th, 2024, which confirmed a second time that I have Lupus SLE.

Food and Wellness: My rheumatologist also recommended I adhere to an anti-inflammatory food lifestyle. I walk a lot for mental well-being.

Stress: My work schedule varies between first, second, and third shifts, including some weekends. Stress is definitely part of my life. I try to reduce my stress by planning ahead such as meals, laundry and running errands. I avoid “woe is me” family members. I also put a big focus on rest and relaxation.

Fibromyalgia: Last month I started regularly experiencing muscle spasms. I take Hydroxychloroquine for Lupus SLE. Because of my work schedule, I had to buckle down and make sure I don’t miss any of my medication doses. I also started back regularly using natural products that help with pain.

Medical Cannabis: I surrendered my medical cannabis license in February to prepare for returning to the workforce. That said, medical cannabis absolutely helped me. I used to use gummies at night to relieve pain and sleep well.

On Saturday, I completed a DRS - Career Planning assessment, which is a step towards returning to school.

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