Madelyn’s summers have changed dramatically over the years due to chronic illness, but she’s found new ways to experience joy, connection, and resilience. Her story is a heartfelt reminder that even when life shifts unexpectedly, it’s possible to redefine what “summer” means.
Continue reading to learn how Madelyn adapts, finds happiness, and embraces meaningful moments despite challenges.
Finding Joy in Summer Mornings
A typical summer day for me right now includes spending a lot of time inside. While I love being outside and in nature, I deal with a lot of heat intolerance that really limits the amount of time I can handle being outside.
Something that brings me joy during the summer is summer mornings – as long as they’re not too humid. Mornings are usually cooler as the summer sun hasn’t started heating everything up, so I’m actually able to spend time out of the house, sometimes even being able to go on a walk or to the farmers market!
Grieving the Summers I Once Knew
My illnesses really deteriorated before the summer of 2017, so I spent much of that summer grieving the summers and abilities that I had before. Growing up, I would spend 80% of my day outside, riding my bike, hiking, and playing with friends. All of a sudden I could barely leave the house, couldn’t stand to be in the sun, and felt totally lost. A huge part of my identity was taken from me, so much of that summer was spent going through the grieving process.
Grieving that loss is something I still occasionally struggle with, but as a result I’ve learned about how resilient I am and how to adapt to unexpected changes in life.
Shifting Focus to Family and Connection
Growing up, summer was always associated with nature, both being in it and appreciating it. My view has had to really shift as my tolerance to being outside has fluctuated.
Now, my summers really represent spending time with family. Most of my family work in education and have summers off, so it is our time to see everyone and spend quality time with each other. My family is a huge part of my support system and I now try not to take the time we have together for granted.
Advice for Those Feeling Left Out
One thing I’d like to share with those feeling left out right now is that you are not alone. It can be really hard to see those you know and everyone online outside, traveling, doing everything you used to do or wish you were able to do, but being unable to do those things doesn’t mean you can’t have a good summer; yours might just look different.
It might include cuddling with your pets, catching up on reading, picking up a hobby, or hanging out with friends in a comfortable environment. Though it may be hard at first, you deserve to adapt your summer to fit your needs!
Follow Madelyn on Instagram to learn more about her journey with chronic illness.
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