I have been active in the COPD world for the past 10+ years. I didn’t have support so I started COPD Friends. They became my COPD family. They understood me, I understood them. Over time and 25 sites later, there were other administrators added. I was helped by helping others.
As time passed us by, so many things were going on in my personal life: health. more than just COPD, I was so overwhelmed. Not knowing how to “do t all”, I had to cut back. A couple of administrators took over a few of the sites. I added another admin to the sites that I have. I will chat with others on all sites if needed and they help out as well.
I felt guilt and I was a traitor, I abandoned all.
No I wasn’t and no, I didn’t.
I am able to give Health Union and COPD Friends more personal attention.
At times I feel overwhelmed, torn between responsibilities and desires. Torn because I care so much. I will search out people that I can draw from, that I can talk to. People that have big hearts and are reaching out to others like you and me!
When those who have passed away, come to my mind, I may share a message or an image on their Facebook world. Others have said they feel that’s healing. Some watch for those posts, to share their own thoughts or memories.
If I know family members, I will reach out and share a message or image to those as well.
By reaching out and helping others, I help myself.
If I’m struggling, I might just start a new thread. I might just say “I’m lonely”, “Im scared”, “I don’t know who turn to”. Then I might share that thought with my husband or a daughter. Most of all, I share with my 3 constant companions, my dogs! “