L B

I am a 20 year old woman about to graduate from college with my B.A. I am smart, funny, and have a pretty average body. I also was diagnosed with an invisible disability last year. I have a neurological condition that affects my heart. On the surface I appear pretty normal, but I don't live a pretty normal college lifestyle. I mean, sometimes I look pale and tired, and my hair is thinning. To me I don't look great but most people I am not really close to haven't noticed. Because of my heart there are a lot of activities I can't do and I am often exhausted. In the past I have dated, but my last relationship ended because of my illness. I haven't had any luck meeting anyone lately and have had several men that were previously interested lose interest when I disclosed my disability to them. I can't stand for long periods of time, can't lift anything, can't do stairs, can't drink caffeine or alcohol, and I get stupid or pass out if I push myself too hard. Because there is always a risk of me passing out I have to tell people I date about it so they don't do something that is potentially dangerous to me. Would this be a big problem for you?

A good friend of mine is in the process of being diagnosed with an auto-immune disease that is attacking her joints. She is in bad pain every day and it limits what she can do sometimes. She is a full-time student and also has to work. Does anyone have any ideas about what I could do to help her out?

A very close family friend is in the process of being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. She is 19 years old and is a college student. Her disease causes her chronic joint pain. Does anyone have any ideas that she might enjoy for Christmas gifts that would help to ease her pain or make things easier on her?