Road to Recovery
When an illness called ME marched into Mary's life, it had a shattering impact. This is the story of how one woman coped.
"I grew up thinking, get an education, get a job, get married, and you'll be happy. So I pursued the university degree, enjoyed my career, and married.
One day I became ill. That illness is the hinge of my life. ME marched in, invaded and conquered. Robbed me of family, friends, vocation and marriage. Eleven years I was held captive; eleven years of a myriad of symptoms which varied from hour to hour.
Exhausted, I climbed up and down the stairs on my bum. Black towels were taped around the windows, so not a single pinpoint of daylight would enter the room, even though I wore sunglasses. I wore earplugs, as whispers would make my ears ache. I lost my fingerprints for two weeks. I had the stuffing knocked out of me.
In that vortex, I cried out to the Bible, the unravelling of my life stopped. I taught myself to read again.
Learning to crochet, I gifted all who knew me with an afghan. It was vital that I created something with my hands, items that were tangible and measurable at the end of the day. My husband blessed me with his absence. Free from that relationship, I was able to focus on my self.
I decided to make my home in Wales, and leave behind. Stronger and better now, I create photographs and words ... I'm enjoying my life and me. Once I believed I was worthless, now I know that I am priceless."
Mary Elise
