You know you're chronically ill when

So all of us fowlers girls have a big list of things that are different now we are chronically ill this list is some of mine and other fowlers girls input to so here we go.

• you can say and spell medical words and medication.

• you know what happens in most medical procedures.

• you know whats wrong before the doctors do.

• the GP surgery staff know your voice on the phone and check you in as soon as you walk in without saying anything.

• the GPS phone number is in your favorites in your contacts

• the pharmacist talks to you like a friend.

• A & E staff and paramedics remember you and your problems.

• people come to you for medical and medication advice. 

• you have medication and medical equipment all around your home and friends and family's home.

• most of your true friends have the same or similar conditions 

• you know the names of the ward staff and know about their family

• you know what hospital food to stay away from.

• hospital staff let you take care of your own catheter and sort it your self.

• you know your medication names and dosage off by heart.

• you have an extra bag just for supplies and medication when you go away.

• have more hospital, doctors, nurses, specialist, pharmacy and catheter supplies company phone numbers in your phone then friends numbers.

• know to get a doctor to take your blood instead of a nurse because your veins are that bad.

• you have to explain your conditions to doctors because they have no idea what it is.

• receive medical samples in the post.

• when watching medical tv show you correct them.

• you always have a hospital bag packed ready just in case.

• you give doctors ideas of what to try next.

• you know more about your conditions then doctors and nurses do.

• because of a catheter, you have to take spare bags, clothing, medication, and dressings everywhere you go.

• you have more pjs than normal clothing.

• sometimes you have to self-diagnose and get a doctor to confirm.

• you read off your name, date of birth, medication, and medical problems and medical history without been asked.

• you roll your sleeve up and put your finger out and head tilted ready for obs been done.

now this is just a few of many things that have changed 

more coming soon 

tia xxxxx