As I’m sure many of you are aware, I’ve been very poorly for some time now. I suffer from a chronic pain condition called Fibromyalgia, I have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome which is hyper-mobility of my joints, and this also causes me chronic pain, and chronic fatigue. on top of that, I have Endometriosis, which also causes me chronic pelvic pain. All of these conditions added together means that every single day of my life, I suffer from pain. I cannot recall the last time I woke up in the morning, and I wasn’t suffering from pain. I have actually been off sick from work since 31/12/18 due to my pain. As I’m sure you’ll understand, I’m miserable. On Friday just gone (1/2/19) my car broke down. The clutch is completely broken. I am advised that it could cost as much as £600 to replace, including the price of labour. Because I’ve not been at work for some time, I won‘t be entitled to full pay (I have had an awful lot of time off sick in the last year, and my employer will only pay up to 12 weeks full pay). Without the car, my life becomes extremely hard. I rely on my car to provide me with the ability to live a normal, independant life. I am a single person, I don’t have anyone in my life to care for me, or to support me in times of strain. On top of all of my own physical complaints, I provide essential care for my mother, who has recently suffered from a series of strokes, and has lost the use of her right arm and hand, and her speech. Without a car, I can’t get to her, I can’t take her to the many medical appointments that she has, and I can’t give her the care she needs. My mental health is poor. I’ve suffered from depression for over 8 years, and 4 years ago, I hit rock bottom, and tried to end my life. I thank god every single day that my attempt was unsuccessful, and that I’m still here. I never want to feel that desperate ever again. All these things aside, I am indeed a functioning human being.

I know that my car, or my health complaints aren’t anyone else’s problem, and it has taken a lot of guts for me to put all of this stuff into type, and ask for help. I understand that some people may view my plea negatively, and I accept that. But I hope that some of you will understand my desperation, and read my story with an open mind, and compassion. I honestly do not want to resort to this, but after considering every other alternative, I cannot see or find any other way out.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read my story. I appreciate the care, love, and support that I get from you all on a daily basis.

Much love as always

Victoria x