Meet Shannon
Shannon is a strong and inspiring warrior living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS), and more. As a tubie, she faces her health challenges with courage and shares her journey to encourage others in the chronic illness community. Shannon’s story is all about staying strong and showing self-love through tough times.
As we step into 2025, it’s a good time to reflect on how far we’ve come and to focus on the small but meaningful steps that help us move forward. Here’s how Shannon is approaching this year with self-compassion, joy, and the support of community.
How I Celebrate Small Wins
Honoring progress, no matter how small, is a powerful way to stay motivated and recognize how far you’ve come. It’s not always about big achievements; even the smallest steps deserve celebration. For me, celebrating wins can look like sharing the joy with a friend through a quick text, treating myself to something special, or simply pausing to reflect on the effort it took to get to that moment. Sometimes, it’s enough just to sit in the moment and take it all in—acknowledging all that it required to get there. These celebrations, no matter how small, remind us that every step forward is a victory.
Small, Realistic Steps to Heal Forward
This year, I’m focusing on the little things that bring me joy and prioritizing self-care in ways that feel sustainable. For me, this means releasing the guilt that often comes with resting. I’m reminding myself daily that rest is productive and necessary—it’s a key part of healing. Whether it’s taking a quiet moment to enjoy my favorite hobby, stepping away from the hustle to recharge, or simply allowing myself to slow down, these small actions are building blocks for my well-being. Healing forward isn’t about dramatic changes; it’s about taking small, meaningful steps that align with where I am today.
The Mindset Guiding Me in 2025
For 2025, my focus is on giving myself grace and staying present in the moment. It’s easy to get caught up in perfectionism or worry about what’s next, but this year, I’m intentionally working on being kind to myself. If I stumble, I remind myself it’s part of the journey and not the end of it. Learning to be present helps me find joy and gratitude in everyday moments, no matter how challenging they may be.
A Message to the Chronic Illness Community
To anyone in the chronic illness community: it’s okay if your new year doesn’t feel full of hope and joy. You’re not alone in that feeling, and it’s perfectly valid. Healing isn’t always linear, and the start of a new year doesn’t have to come with pressure to feel or be a certain way.
Celebrate your small victories, no matter how minor they may seem, because those moments are the ones that show your strength. Lean on your community for support—whether it’s friends, family, or others who understand your journey. Most importantly, make time for the things that bring you joy, whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a favorite hobby, or a heartfelt conversation.
Healing is a journey, not a race. It’s about embracing where you are, taking steps at your own pace, and showing yourself the love and care you deserve. Let’s step into 2025 together, focused on self-compassion, connection, and finding joy in the little things.
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