Body Image with a Chronic Illness | Living with EDS

[@ranchugoldfish3822]

Yes as a 58 year old male I can even feel body issues. I'm single overweight and sick what do I bring to any relationship. I spent what seems like my best years caring for my late wife and her MS while my disease grew strong. But while caring for her was hard I feel our relationship was based on strength, love and compassion. Very few people can handle us, but those that can bring with them love such as few understand or have in themselves. Next time you go to Dr. office look around the room you can pick out those that care. We maybe sick but we fight for everything including those in our lives. If I only had one wish I don't think I would wish us well. I think I would wish could have love. You young lady are an Angel helping people across the world. Your mom and dad must cry every day because the pride they have in you. Bill

[@christinadoherty3212]

+bill hundt Nobody is immune to body issues ❤ Thats just part of what makes us human. I totally agree with you, love is an amazing thing. I find myself thinking that same thought very often, I don't need to be cured, I just need to be loved and supported through whatever it is this life has in store for me. Thank you for your sweet words.

[@gordonwybo898]

ALL of those battle scars are medals of hard fought challenges that you have CONQUERED!!! I would like to say CONGRATULATIONS!!!

[@BanannaPepperVlogs]

Great Vid! I use to work with people with eating disorders and this would've been a great vid to show them during the "body image" group.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Devon Jones Thank you so much! I really hope it is able to help some people look at things from a slightly different angle ❤

[@heidithechubbybunny8949]

I can't exercise and I can't fast so I am overweight as a result.. whenever someone calls me fat I'm like whatever, I know it's because I'm not lazy or because I just love love love to eat

[@christinadoherty3212]

+HAfighter 💜 I know it can be hard when you feel like people may be judging you without knowing your situation. Good for you for letting it just roll off! You know that you are doing the best you can for your body with its current circumstances, and thats all that matters! 😘

[@tamealion]

I found this video just at the right time. due to EDS, I had to have my left shoulder fused together. the thick scar runs from the top if my shoulder near my neck, down to my elbow. it's hard not to feel down about it, but at the same time, these imperfections show just how strong we are! thank you so much for using your voice to speak up for those of us going through this. you're a lovely and inspiring girl! ☺💪

[@christinadoherty3212]

Its definitely really hard at times to love and embrace stuff like that. There are so many different emotions wrapped up in a scar. I hope that you can choose to flaunt it, theres no reason to be shamed of it :) Keep being awesome!

[@Marebear129]

This is such an awesome video for anyone struggling with their own body image issues. Very well said. You are a very strong and beautiful girl ! I’m 51 and I struggle once and awhile with my own body image, then I remember all that I have been through and the scars to show it and I’m proud and thankful to be here. God bless !!

[@idontknowwhatimdoing5991]

So well said!! For a while after becoming chronically ill, I felt like my body had betrayed me. It's definitely still a process, and I'm definitely still mad at it sometimes, but I'm also able to appreciate how hard it works and how it always manages to keep going. This is such an important topic, and I just wanted to thank you for bringing it to light 💜

[@christinadoherty3212]

+idon'tknowwhati'mdoing It is totally a process lol. Im not sure that ever ends, I guess thats just part of being human. But I do think it's important to talk about and be real and honest about. Im glad you are learning to love and appreciate your body for what it CAN do. Its so easy to get caught up thinking about what it CANT. 💜

[@nikki10114]

yes we are all trial and errors its freaking difficult

[@HannahLucia]

This was all so well said! Having a chronic illness is hard enough and because it being so isolating you become really focused on your body, internally and externally. I struggle with it daily but I'm slowly learning to love my body. Good job with this video girly. I just subbed ☺️

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Hannah Lucia So true! Thats a really good point! We are forced to spend most of our time and energy focused on our bodies, so its so easy for that to become unhealthy. Its definitely a delicate balance we have to walk between taking care of ourselves and obsessing. ❤

[@CCBear-jc6lz]

I’m 42. But all my life have had spinal problems. I was stiff or immobile since I can remember. I have klippel feil syndrome. I also just had a quadruple bypass I’ve lost half my pancreas to cancer I’m diabetic the list goes on. I’m married but my body and illnesses do not make it easy. I watch u and I wish I had ur strength. Much love.

[@chemicalbreath]

My body has failed me too. It sucks. I love your videos. I love how you deal with your illness. But It make me sad and it is hard to not start crying during everyone of your videos and reading everyone's comments . It just not right that our bodies have to fail us.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Christopher You are right, It isn't right, it isn't fair, and yeah it does stink sometimes. Its totally okay to be sad about that. We all have those days, and sometimes I feel like crying is one of the best things we can do. I know I always feel a bit better after a cry. But in the end, I have one body and one life, and I am determined to make the best of what I've got. 💜 Hang in there!

[@AD-ip5xy]

Christina, I have been watching you for a long time, but this is the first time I have seen this video. God had sent it to me at the time I needed it most. When I first started watching you I knew there might be something wrong with me, but the symptoms seemed so disconnected I thought I was crazy. This past year I have gotten worse and worse, and finally found out I also have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. For almost a year I thought I was crazy or, I should just be happy because I dont even go through half of the things you do, or I'm not sick "enough" or I deserve to feel like this. For months and months you educated me about life, love, God, and an illness I didn't even know i had yet. Every time i feel beaten down by illness or doctors or body image or anything, I've been looking to your channel for some help and there is always something you say that I needed to hear. God speaks through you and it really shows and really helps a lot of people. I pray for you and your family all the time, and thank you for your story and your kind words. I really wish you the best! ♡Arli♡

[@claireseabrook5673]

Hey Christina! I believe this is the first video of yours that I watched/subscribed from!! I found your channel pretty soon after I learned more about my diagnoses. More than a year later, I have had so many experiences with my health. Lots of ups and downs!! But we keep on trucking! I just started working on my online presence as a chronic illness/spoonie social media person. I can say a huge thank you to YOU for starting me on this journey, and continuing to kick butt whatever way we can each week!

[@lizmastro4458]

From a fellow vlogger with EDS, PREACH GIRL! This is such an issue with people with chronic illness that people don't even think about! I found your channel because of your PICC video, I'm getting my first placed in the next few weeks and you really helped me feel more comfortable with needing one! And I showed it to my mom so that she could learn a bit about it before I get mine! Keep it coming with the videos, they're helping so many people!

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Liz Mastro Thanks so much Liz! Im so glad my video helped you feel a bit more comfortable. Its always nice when you can go in knowing what to expect. Best of luck with your placement! Im sure you will do great 💜

[@HerBirdieGirl]

Broke my like button on this message she's sending in such a beautiful way!! So happy I stumbled on this channel, I'm binge watching right now.... yes in 2018 lol

[@Luma994]

Since my EDS "broke out" and started hindering my "normal" life I have gotten more content with my self. Yes I have pain and I can't do many of the things I used to do but as you say, our body's work very hard on taking us though life. I have learnt to be greatfull. ❤

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Linda-Marie Hamrin That is so good to hear, sometimes having to slow down helps us to appreciate the little things more 💜

[@rjconte8751]

This is beautiful. You are gorgeous. Thank you!

[@aaliyahraks]

A very wise head on young shoulders x I live with chronic pain and there are times i can't do anything other than lay in bed to recover .... and other times where i am able to get out and about in the community and sometimes i get to dance and perform. I have had this now for 18 1/2 years and have learnt to be thankful to my body for fighting its way back so i can enjoy life still. Yes i have weight issues and wish i didn't. But other than that i am happy living life :) x

[@ChelsieWise]

Girrrrllllll..... you are wise beyond your years. I am 34, and strugle with this daily. As my EDS symptoms increase, including those oh so wonderful stretch marks, my confidence has declined. I work every day to change that mind set, but of course it will never be a quick fix. Thank you for the beautiful words!

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Chelsie Wise Thank you for your sweet comment. I wish body image issues were something that went away after puberty, but as I am moving into adulthood I am discovering that that is far from the truth. I wish you luck on your journey of self love, if it makes you feel any better I know some of the ladies call them their "Zebra Stripes," which I think it pretty cool. 😊

[@morgancollette1381]

You are such a sweet and humble inspiration! I love your channel and have so enjoyed hearing your story and watching your travels. Please continue to make videos and fill the world with this positivity!

[@christinadoherty3212]

Thank you so very much for the sweet comment, I don't plan on stopping any time soon :)

[@emmym.1524]

This video brought me to your channel! I have EDS (and many commodities) and it hit close to home

[@tpchannelgr]

Such an important lesson for our body image!!

[@swaits622]

You are so incredibly enlightening. I constantly struggle with body image issues due to various health issues and it's embarrassing to talk about because healthy people often don't understand. This video is just what I needed today. Thank you 💗

[@christinadoherty3212]

+swaits622 Aww im glad to hear it 💕

[@victoriaguyadeen255]

I am waiting to find out if I have eds in addition to a few autoimmune diseases. My complexion changed too. It has been hard. Thank you for sharing that part, it is so helpful to hear someone encountering this as well. I try really hard not to focus on my insecurities and how my illnesses and meds have changed me but it is difficult. Especially when so many people point out how fat my face is from steroids. Thinning hair, scars, and stretch marks seem to be an element of chronic illness. Thank you for sharing!

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Victoria Guyadeen Isn't that super weird? I was always the kid who looked super tanned all year round and never got a sunburn. People even asked me all the time if I was from another country. Now I swear there isn't a makeup shade in the universe light enough for me 😂 But hey, its just a new look to get used to, I kind of like being pale. 💜 Pale ladies unite! Lol

[@krystaj944]

Wow! Just wow! This video is so inspiring! Christina, you are a beautiful person with a huge heart! The awareness you are bringing to the chronically ill community is amazing! I love your videos, I watch them everyday! I hope nothing but the best for you and your family!

[@morbidkitten7061]

Thank you! I needed to hear this. :-)

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Morbid Kitten 💜

[@morbidkitten7061]

You're such a kind soul! I am so happy I found your channel! :-)

[@VaurionX]

Great video as always. I never cared a ton about body image, but it was there to some extent. After what I have been through I have learned that there are much more important things. I do what I want for myself, so if I decide I want to comb my hair slightly better one day I do it because I want it to look that way. I don't really care what other people think anymore, I am my own entity making it through life. Thinking about other people's perceptions of me goes against living a life full of love and tranquility, so for now I've decided to be my own self.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Josh Hittie Good for you! I totally love this way of thinking. This definitely kinda re inspired me a bit to just make my own style choices because thats how I want to look that day. It can be so freeing to just let go of what other people think and just live for yourself. Props to you man! You do you! 💕

[@faeriesmak]

Great video Christina. Also..I love your shirt!

[@christinadoherty3212]

Thanks! its from American Eagle :)

[@ieatemos]

You're so kind and gentle, you'd be a wonderful Fae Queen.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+iEatEmos Why thank you! 💕

[@annedavis3340]

made me cry healing tears. THANK you!

[@Molly-cm4sr]

this left me in tears. i needed to hear this so much. thank you

[@kellyevans6204]

I too have EDS, I don't yet know a type of it but I will soon find out ☺️❤️

[@christinadoherty3212]

Good luck!

[@maddiebright1927]

Thank you

[@poppycopper1]

Thank you xx

[@kirstenv1279]

Very inspirational video xx

[@nicolemiller8883]

I'm don't mind my scars. Most of the time I feel like my body HATES me! I can not be who I once was and that is very hard to except. I do get sad and feel alot of guilt. I think in a way you have to mourn the person you used to be and the life you thought you'd have.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Nicole Morrow You are so right, it really is a constant grieving process. And I'm jot really sure it ever ends. Each day can be a struggle of acceptance. But I think theres a lot of power in accepting that and going on with your life despite it. Hang in there, some days I feel like mine hates me too lol but Its all I got ❤

[@Goat.Cheese]

Thank you...this was so beautiful! :')

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Emily 😘

[@TheWackoGreenAlien]

Can you do a video about MCAS

[@julieannemichelle]

Christina, does your sister have the same condition that you have? I think you are such an optimistic lady. I also see a lot of self confidence within you too. I loved this vlog! It is so important to love yourself because you can't love anyone else until you love yourself. Love starts within.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+platinumblondie Yes, although my sister and I present very differently, she also has EDS. We are hoping that her case will always be mild, but its hard to know what to expect in the future. 💜 Thank you very much!

[@ranchugoldfish3822]

I hope my previous post did not come across as saying we need people because we lack something. I just want each of us to be our most as well our most happy. love to all Bill

[@christinadoherty3212]

+bill hundt I totally understood what you were saying, you got your point across perfectly. No worries! 💕

[@montanalover8833]

I aspire to be like you. Very inspirational

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Dog Love ❤️ Thank you!

[@montanalover8833]

Christina Doherty your very welcome!!

[@naomiesmeralda6051]

Hi Christina! My name is Naomi and I just subscribed to your channel. I too suffer from a chronic illness called Cystic Fibrosis that affects almost about every organ in my body but primarily lungs and GI system. You are so inspirational to me! Thank you for encouraging people like us! It means the world to me! Also, where did you by your black mask that you wear?

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Esmeralda Naomi Hi there! Im sorry to hear that you have CF. I am so thankful for the internet and social media for giving those of us with chronic illnesses a way to connect (I know it's especially difficult with CF due to the risk of cross-infection). Im so glad to have you here 💜 I got the black mask from the brand "Vogmask." They have a website and also sell on amazon and have some fun patterns. I wear a size medium.

[@carolion8496]

Love this so much! Thank you for taking the time to make this and encourage others (and yourself! ^_^). I just can't say anything more than what one of the other commenters said, which was, "YASSS!" XD

[@christinadoherty3212]

+Little Bluebird Thank YOU so much for watching and commenting. I wouldn't be making them if it wasn't for people like you ❤

[@nikki10114]

yessss i cant liose weight and my core is over flexible. fuck this illness and pots syndrome ughh

[@sandramorrow8658]

Here she is, the hypo 😊

[@life-gs7zr]

I hate those who say that disabled people are lazy im not disabled but I understand it

[@jennmcswan9900]

Christina Hi video new

[@georgeeden5835]

I hate how I look, I have tried stop eating lunch and I don't feel hungry anymore, but I am still not loosing weight or slimming down, what do I do??

[@elinicastro1347]

George Eden hello! I'm trying to lose weight myself. I'm currently 185 pounds, but I was near 200. My advice? eat! not eating lunch is the worst thing you can do, because later on you are more hungry and depressed. being on a diet should not be a depressing experience. first of all, go see your doctor and tell them you wanna lose weight. second: the problem is often in our minds, so go see a therapist about it. If you don't want/ can't, then read! a book, a forum online, ask for advice to people that have been there. what I do? simple. breakfast: a banana and a cup of tea with milk (no sugar). snack: a fruit lunch: vegetables, a small amount of carbohydrates (preferably whole grain), 1 teaspoon of oil. snack: 1 0% fat yogurt dinner: a soup or some proteins (like some light cheese, or some chicken), vegetables, 1 teaspoon of oil. remember: oil, butter and sugar are your enemies. use only 1 tablespoon of oil per day. remember that carbohydrates transform into sugar, so be careful of the amount you eat. tricks: drink a full glass of water before every meal, it will give you the sensation of being full and you'll eat less. brush your teeth right after you eat. this will prevent you to eat more because you have that minty flavour in your mouth. chew gum (the sugarless kind); it will keep your mouth occupied. stay away from the kitchen! and if you can't stand seeing other people eat, just eat at different times. cook your own food, it will make it taste better because you put effort in it. don't look at others who have lost weight and think "I wanna be just like them". remember, it's a long process and you have to take your time to go through it. they already went through it, and so can you. do some blood tests to see if your thyroid levels are normal. hope this helps! if you have question feel free to contact me ;)

[@elinicastro1347]

George Eden hello! I'm trying to lose weight myself. I'm currently 185 pounds, but I was near 200. My advice? eat! not eating lunch is the worst thing you can do, because later on you are more hungry and depressed. being on a diet should not be a depressing experience. first of all, go see your doctor and tell them you wanna lose weight. second: the problem is often in our minds, so go see a therapist about it. If you don't want/ can't, then read! a book, a forum online, ask for advice to people that have been there. what I do? simple. breakfast: a banana and a cup of tea with milk (no sugar). snack: a fruit lunch: vegetables, a small amount of carbohydrates (preferably whole grain), 1 teaspoon of oil. snack: 1 0% fat yogurt dinner: a soup or some proteins (like some light cheese, or some chicken), vegetables, 1 teaspoon of oil. remember: oil, butter and sugar are your enemies. use only 1 tablespoon of oil per day. remember that carbohydrates transform into sugar, so be careful of the amount you eat. tricks: drink a full glass of water before every meal, it will give you the sensation of being full and you'll eat less. brush your teeth right after you eat. this will prevent you to eat more because you have that minty flavour in your mouth. chew gum (the sugarless kind); it will keep your mouth occupied. stay away from the kitchen! and if you can't stand seeing other people eat, just eat at different times. cook your own food, it will make it taste better because you put effort in it. don't look at others who have lost weight and think "I wanna be just like them". remember, it's a long process and you have to take your time to go through it. they already went through it, and so can you. do some blood tests to see if your thyroid levels are normal. hope this helps! if you have question feel free to contact me ;)

[@georgeeden5835]

Elly Astra also a big problem is being at school I find it really awkward eating in public, it's hard just to look like everyone else.

[@elinicastro1347]

George Eden well, I'm in university, but I was in high school too. It is difficult, but if somebody tells something about your weight you can reply back "I'm a work in progress, and you are not helping", or a more snarky reply might be "at least I can lose weight and improve myself". but what matters is that you should not let something a mean person says affect you. They are in the wrong, you are making an effort, and you should feel sorry for that person because clearly they are not good nor intelligent, and maybe they are bullying because they have some issues themselves. think about it: if you were a happy person why would feel the need to mock somebody else for something that doesn't concern you? it's their problem, not yours. they need to feel powerful through bullying because they are powerless otherwise. I don't know if I have understood your problem correctly, but if you want to talk about it some more feel free to reply to this message or send me a private one. I went through it, so I how it feels.

[@christinadoherty3212]

+George Eden My advice here would be to focus first and foremost on taking care of your body and helping to be the healthiest it can be. This of course includes being a healthy weight, but you shouldn't zero in on just the numbers, and definitely don't skip meals. If you have a chronic illness like many of my viewers, this is even more important. Enlist the help of your doctor and specialists as well, they can give you personal tips tailored to your situation. Skipping meals isn't good for your body and will just make you feel more hungry and will do all kinds of crazy things to your blood sugar. Instead focus on filling your body with the healthy things it needs and can easily process (this will be different for a lot of people here depending on their absorption/motility). Keep track of what you are eating and how much, and then slowly increase your exercise overtime. Please be careful if you have a chronic illness (or don't) and consult with your doctor/PT, they can tell you what is best for you. ❤ Take care of yourself, I wish you luck!