iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 2h

Few people know I took a 9 month pro course on #LymphaticsDrainage in Oct 2025. I learned how to drain fluid from my own limbs & chest. I do not have a firm dx yet. My 2023 clot crisis shows there is something wrong with my lymphatics system. Credit: Unknown #MySeveralWorlds #LymphaticDrainage

Very few people know I took a nine month professional course on lymphatics drainage last year that started in October 2025.

I learned so much including how to drain fluid from my own limbs and chest.

I do not have a proper diagnosis yet, but my clot crisis in August 2023 demonstrated that there is something wrong with my lymphatics system.

👉 LYMPHEDEMA FACTS OF MY LIFE
People don't realize that #lymphedema doesn't just swell our limbs - it weakens our immune system

When your lymph fluid isn't moving the way It should, vour body can't fight off germs like everyone else.

So yes... we really do catch everything and it hits us harder, lasts longer. and drains us in ways most imagine.

But no matter where we are in our journey whether we're up, resting, or bed bound - we are still fighting in our own way.

Our strength isn't measured by movement. It's measured by endurance, courage, and the will to keep going through things most people will never understand.

Credit: Unknown

#MySeveralWorlds #LymphaticDrainage #Lymphatics #inflammation

020

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 03/10/2026

On my way to the hospital again. Sigh... Gonna light their MRI equipment up like a Christmas tree. Appointment #5 this week! Chronically yours, Carrie Credit: Chronic illness memes #MySeveralWorlds #MedicalBurnout #ComplexCare #ComplexIllness #CanadianHealthcare

On my way to the hospital again. Sigh...

Gonna light their MRI equipment up like a Christmas tree.

Appointment #5 this week!

Chronically yours,
Carrie

"When you swing into your third doctor's appointment in a week...

How's my favorite waiting room doing?"

Credit: Chronic illness memes

#MySeveralWorlds #MedicalBurnout #ComplexCare #ComplexIllness #CanadianHealthcare

030

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 02/10/2026

It's that time of year when tasks like holding a glass are hard! Cold weather makes fine motor skills tough for arthritis patients. It might look easy, but it is a difficult thing to do for many arthritis patients. Do you struggle with basic tasks? #InflammatoryArthritis #MySeveralWorlds

Life with arthritis: It's that time of year when tasks like holding a glass are difficult. Cold weather makes fine motor skills tough for arthritis patients.

It might look easy to hold a glass or pick up a pen, but it is a difficult thing to do for many arthritis patients.

I've had grip and strength problems for over a decade. To this day, my grip and hand/wrist/arm strength continues to decline.

I never thought it would be so difficult or painful to perform a simple task that most people do not think twice about.

I also find it difficult to use cutlery and chopsticks! I have life hacks for getting around it on extra difficult days.

Do you struggle with 'basic' tasks that no one gives a second thought to?

Here are some other examples: getting in a car,
putting something on a shelf over your head,
tipping your head back to drink, and looking over your shoulder.

#PsoriaticArthritis #AxialSpondyloarthritis #InflammatoryArthritis #MySeveralWorlds #ArthritisAdvocate

121

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 30/09/2026

I am surprised by how often the 1-10 pain scale is used here. I'm glad to hear so many do not like this scale! How would you rate your pain today? For my last post this month, I'm sharing "A more realistic chronic pain scale by @PINKYANDTHEPAIN #PAM2026 #PainAwarenessMonth #MySeveralWorlds

We've had a lot of talk about the pain scale here on this page during #PainAwarenessMonth.

I, too, was very surprised by how often the 1 to 10 pain scale is used here in North America. And I've been glad to hear from so many of you who have said that you also do not like this scale.

❓How would you rate your pain today?

For my last post this month, I'm sharing "A more realistic chronic pain scale by @PINKYANDTHEPAIN

0-2
Really?! I didn't know this even existed

3-4
My normal every day / lower normal. Can almost function as a normal person and very easy to hide.

5-6
ANNOYING. Also my normal on the medium days or after a busy day. Can normally continue every day things and can be hidden pretty well.

7-9
ANGRY. IRRITABLE. Can be my background during my high pain days. Often a warning of what is to come and when the mask starts to slip. Should plan to be home or close to home. Will be around close friends who understand only.

10-12
NOPE. Intermittent crying. This is high background with multiple spasms/shocks an hour. Will need to go home now and only be around those closest to me. Probably in bed/resting.

13+
NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE. UNCONTROLLED. Inconsolable or silent. Unable to move. Should probably see a doctor but I never do it. It will pass.

#PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain #MySeveralWorlds

031

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 30/09/2026

I made this graphic years ago to help people visualize life with #ChronicPain. It reflects conditions relevant to my own medical history — not every painful condition that exists. Some pain ends. Chronic pain can last for decades. #PainAwarenessMonth #Fibromyalgia #AxSpA #CRPS #MECFS

$Graphic titled “The McGill Pain Index” showing a vertical pain scale from 0 to 50. Conditions listed include sprain 14, fracture and arthritis 18, toothache 19, post-shingles nerve pain 22, non-terminal cancer 26, chronic back pain 28, chronic migraine 29, fibromyalgia 30, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis 32, childbirth 32–36, finger or toe amputation 39, and CRPS 46. The image includes black human silhouettes and MySeveralWorlds.com branding.$

063

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 28/09/2026

How does it make you feel when a pain specialist questions how you talk about your pain? Have you experienced problems with doctors telling you how you should and shouldn't talk about pain? We'd love to hear about your experiences for #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #DontPunishPain #MySeveralWorlds

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 27/09/2026

"If you don't have to factor in losing 40% of your day in exchange for A Thing, you have no right to comment on my ability to do A Thing. Credit: Women With Chronic lllness #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #ArthritisAwarenessMonth #MigraineAwarenessWeek

"What abled people dont understand is that even if a disabled person manages to do A Thing, there is a cost for A Thing

We had a family member hours today visit for 3 hours. I collapsed from pain and fatigue when they left and slept for 10 hours straight.

If you don't have to factor in losing 40% of your day in exchange for A Thing, you have no right to comment
on my ability to do A Thing.

Credit: Women With Chronic lllness

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026
#MySeveralWorlds #ArthritisAwarenessMonth
#MigraineAwarenessWeek

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 26/09/2026

NEW: What happens when a disabled person’s need for assistance is seen as dependence? When the floor they can’t mop becomes more visible than the biz they’re running? The Invisible Weight of a Disabled Wife 🔗 www.myseveralworlds.com/2026/09/10/t... #Ableism #MySeveralWorlds #DisabilityAndMarriage

What happens when a disabled person’s need for physical assistance gets mistaken for dependence?

When the floor they can’t mop becomes more visible than the business they’re running. When the groceries they can’t carry matter more than everything they carry that no one can see.

This is a deeply personal story, but it’s also about something much bigger: ableism, invisible labour, and the dangerous assumption that needing help means being helpless.

And yes, it starts with a mop. The actual fucking mop. 🧹

The Invisible Weight of a Disabled Wife
🔗
https://www.myseveralworlds.com/2026/09/10/the-invisible-weight-of-a-disabled-wife/

#Ableism #MySeveralWorlds #DisabledWomen #InvisibleLabour #DisabilityAdvocacy #DisabilityAndMarriage

Pinterest
What happens when a disabled person’s need for physical assistance gets mistaken for dependence?

When the floor they can’t mop becomes more visible than the business they’re running. When the groceries they can’t carry matter more than everything they carry that no one can see.

This is a deeply personal story, but it’s also about something much bigger: ableism, invisible labour, and the dangerous assumption that needing help means being helpless. And yes, it starts with a mop. 🧹

010

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 26/09/2026

My little dwarf with a pick axe has been very active these past two months. I am still averaging 2-4 health appointments a week. This results in HIP Days. (High Impact Pain Days) It's my way of using some humor for pain. #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #ChronicPainIs #LifeWithPain

My little dwarf with a pick axe has been very active these past two months. I am still averaging 2-4 health appointments a week.

Next week I have five appointments that conclude with an MRI next Saturday. The following week begins with a bang and another full appointment with my GP about the ER fiasco.

So I'm stressed out from doing too much and that results in HIP Days. (High Impact Pain Days)

This is my way of using some humor for pain.

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #ChronicPainIs #LifeWithPain

010

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 25/09/2026

DID YOU KNOW? The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion states that people with fibromyalgia are 3.4 times more likely to develop more depression compared to people who do not have fibromyalgia. ~ #MySeveralWorlds #PainAwarenessMonth #FibroNerds #TeamFibro #SupportFibro

DID YOU KNOW?

"The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion states that people with fibromyalgia are 3.4 times more likely to develop more depression compared to people who do not have fibromyalgia. "

Credit: Carrie, My Several Worlds - Stories of Disability, Illness & Belonging

#PAM2026 #PainAwarenessMonth #MySeveralWorlds #FibroNerds #TeamFibro #SupportFibro

000

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 24/09/2026

Fibromyalgia is known for having more than 200 symptoms! This is why it is known as one of the most painful medical conditions to have. This word cloud is a list of things I experience daily because of fibro. 🔗 www.myseveralworlds.com/fibromyalgia/ #MySeveralWorlds #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026

020

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 23/09/2026

It happened to me in ER in Sept despite my pharmacy list. "I can't treat you, or give you any pain medication because that's not my field. But, I'm going to refer you to five other doctors who won't help you either." Credit: Unknown #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #DontPunishPain

This is what happened to me on Sept 5th when I forgot my meds at home at 3am and ended up being in ER for 24 hours. For the first five hours I was refused completely despite having my legit pharmacy med list on me with my doctor's name and only needing one tablet. 🤦

There were no referrals. I was told to "wait my turn" 🤷‍♀️ while hemorraging, and triaged as CTAS 3 (urgent) with 10/10 acute pain.

"| can't treat you, or give you any pain medication because that's not my field. But, I'm going to refer you to five other doctors who won't help you either."

Credit: Unknown

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #DontPunishPain

010

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 22/09/2026

For #ArthritisAwarenessMonth & #PainAwarenessMonth Today's graphic is for BASDAI: Bath #AnkylosingSpondylitis Disease Activity Score. BASDAI defines disease activity in a person with AS. Visit the Spondylitis Association of America to calculate your score. #Spondyloarthritis #Spondylitis #PAM2026

For #ArthritisAwarenessMonth and #PainAwarenessMonth...

Today's graphic is for BASDAI: Bath #AnkylosingSpondylitis Disease Activity Score with Spondylitis Association of America.

If you're not familiar with this measurement tool, visit their website. I'll pop the link in the comments so you can calculate your BASDAI score.

BASDAI Score Calculator: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
Measuring Disease Activity

Please indicate your level of ability with each of the following activities during the past week.

BASDAI defines disease activity in a person with AS.

It consists of six 10cm horizontal VAS to measure, including:
*fatigue
*spinal pain
*duration of morning stiffness
*severity of morning stiffness
*peripheral joint swelling
*localized tenderness

The scale is from 0 to 10.

A BASDAI score of >4/10 means your disease is active. Anything above four means your disease is active.

If you test below four, your disease is considered under control. The higher you score, the worse your disease activity is.

The goal of BASDAI is to define disease activity in a patient with axSpA. It can be done in two minutes. It’s effective at letting doctors know how active your disease is.

Want to learn about other measurement tools?

Follow me and the SAA did more info about life with #Spondyloarthritis.

#Spondylitis #SpondyWhat #PAM2026

121

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 21/09/2026

Pain scales that may be appropriate to most don't capture the experience of many trauma survivors esp those who experience significant dissociation. Evaluating their needs based on normative pain scales can underestimate their need for support & relief. @drdoylesays.bsky.social #PainAwarenessMonth

Pain scales that may be appropriate to most people don't capture the experience of many trauma survivors especially those who experience significant dissociation. Evaľuating their needs based on normative pain scales can drastically underestimate their need for support & relief."

Credit: Dr. Glenn Patrick Doyle (Protect this man at all costs. You can find him under @drdoylesays on other platforms.)

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain #MySeveralWorlds

022

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 20/09/2026

I admit that I don't like the idea of "making" anyone suffer just to prove point however a few seconds might be interesting! It could be like those birth shocker videos that are going around that show men what women go through. #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #LetsTalkAboutPain

011

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 19/09/2026

For #ArthritisAwarenessMonthi, an AxSpA signs & symptoms list. It is a complex disease. Its severity & progression can vary greatly among. This list is not exhaustive. Always discuss your symptoms with your medical provider. #AnkylosingSpondylitis #MySeveralWorlds #PAM2026 #PainAwarenessMonth

For #ArthritisAwarenessMonth I'm sharing a short AxSpA signs and symptoms list.

#AxSpA is a complex disease. Its severity and progression can vary greatly among individuals.

✔️ Has your pain started before the age of 45?
✔️ Has your back pain lasted from more than 3 months?
✔️ Does your pain get worse with rest?
✔️ Do you have pain in your hips and buttocks?
✔️ Do you wake up from pain at night?
✔️ Are you stiff for more than 30 minutes in the morning?

This list is not exhaustive. Always discuss your symptoms with your medical provider.

#FiercelyFightingArthritis #AnkylosingSpondylitis
#MySeveralWorlds #SpondyWhat #PAM2026 #PainAwarenessMonth

000

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 18/09/2026

#ChronicPain affects every aspect of your life It has lasting effects on your body It limits your ability to work & earn money Chronic pain changes your personality, confidence & relationships It makes you fearful & scared It requires a superhuman power of pain tolerance © #MySeveralWorlds #PAM2026

8 Ways Chronic Pain Changes You

Chronic pain affects every aspect of your day to day life

Chronic pain has lasting effects on your body

Chronic pain limits your ability to work and earn money

Chronic pain changes your personality

Chronic pain can affect your confidence

Chronic pain can change your relationships with others

Chronic pain makes you
fearful and scared

Living with chronic pain requires a superhuman power of pain tolerance

Credit: Carrie, My Several Worlds

Read more in the comments ⬇️

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain
#MySeveralWorlds

022

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 17/09/2026

17 long years of waking up in pain & feeling like someone took a meat tenderizer to my body. I don't know how we get through other than through willpower. If I didn't have basic pain treatment options, I don't know where I'd be now. #PainAwarenessMonth #LifeWithPain #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds

LIFE WITH CHRONIC PAIN

17 long years of waking up in pain and feeling like someone took a meat tenderizer to my whole body. I don't know how we get through this day after day other than through willpower. If I didn't have basic pain treatment options, I don't know where I'd be now.

LEARN MORE AT
My Several Worlds - Stories of Disability, Illness & Belonging

#PainAwarenessMonth #LifeWithPain #PAM2026
#MySeveralWorlds

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 16/09/2026

Chronic pain is a severe mental health crisis too. I wish people recognized pain as a disease in addition to being a severe mental health crisis. Mental health is directly related to pain. It is pain's unrecognized partner in crime. #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MentalHealthMatters #MySeveralWorlds

"Chronic pain is a severe mental health crisis too. I wish people recognized chronic pain as a disease in addition to being a severe mental health crisis. Mental health is directly related to pain. It is pain's unrecognized partner in crime." ~Carrie

#ChronicPainAwareness #PAM2026
#MentalHealthAwareness
#MentalHealthMatters #MySeveralWorlds

032

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 15/09/2026

"When you wonder why someone lives in pain without ever reaching out, I hope you can look back to see they reached out a hundred times, and no one reached back." Credit: Stephanie Bennett-Henry #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds

000

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 14/09/2026

"Like so many Spoonies, I struggle to find words to describe what my life is like living with severe limitations and daily chronic pain." Credit: Carrie, My Several Worlds 🔗 LINK in comments! #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain #MySeveralWorlds #SolvePainTogether

121

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 13/09/2026

Nerve Pain Referred Aka why I hurt all the time with axial disease. ALT TEXT added. C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12 L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 Sacrum Coccoyx Credit: MassageNerd #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #LetsTalkAboutPain

Nerve Pain Referred

C1 - Back of head
C2 - Various areas of the head C3 - Side and front of neck
C4 - Upper back of neck
C5 - Middle of neck and upper part of arms
C6 - Lower part of neck, arms, and elbow
C7-Lower part of arm and shoulder
T1 - Hand, wrist, Fingers, and thyroid
T2 Heart, heart valves and coronary arteries
T3 - Lungs, bronchial tubes, pleura, and chest
T4 - Gall bladder and common duct
T5 - Liver and solar plexus
T6 - Stomach and mid-back area
T7 - Pancreas and duodenum
T8 - Spleen and lower mid-back
T9 - Adrenal glands
T10 - Kidneys
T11 - Ureters
T12 - Small intestine and upper/lower back
L1 - Iliocecal valve and large intestine
L2 - Appendix, abdomen and upper leg
L3 - Sex organs, uterus, bladder, and knees
L4 - Prostate gland and lower back
L5 - Sciatic nerve, lower legs, ankles, and feet
Sacrum - Hipbones and buttocks
Coccoyx - Rectum and anus

Credit: MassageNerd.com

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds #LetsTalkAboutPain

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 13/09/2026

I had a terrifying hemorrhage on Friday, Sept 5. I was in two ERs with an ambulance transfer. I have #APS. I had a perfect dental extraction. Hours later it resulted in 100+ #clots. I bled for 24 hours. No one knew what to do. No one listened to me. #AntiphospholipidSyndrome

Me in an ambulance with a bag of blood and clots that I was expelling between hospitals.

110

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 12/09/2026

"I'm convinced I was a warrior in a previous life and have carried over all my battle wounds into this life. Why else would everything hurt so much? Plus this sounds cooler." Credit: unknown #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain #MySeveralWorlds

010

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 11/09/2026

Non verbal signs of pain: 😟 Facial expressions 🧍‍♀️Body posture. 😭 Crying/sounds of distress 🫥Withdrawal 🤬 Mood changes 😕 Confusion 👐 Hand movements show distress 🥵 Excessive sweating 🔗 MySeveralWorlds.com #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #ArthritisAwarenessMonth #MySeveralWorlds #SuicideAwareness

Non verbal signs of pain:

😟 Facial expressions
🧍‍♀️Body posture. (Pain patients tend to protect their body by holding their limbs close or move unnaturally in an attempt to protect their body)
😭 Crying and sounds of distress
Withdrawal from activity or into silence
🤬 Mood changes - quick to anger, aggression, irritability, and agitation
😕 Confusion
👐 Hand movements can show distress or pain
🥵 Excessive sweating
🔗
MySeveralWorlds.com

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #ArthritisAwarenessMonth #MySeveralWorlds #SuicideAwareness

011

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 10/09/2026

"The book of autoimmune disease symptoms and related conditions." Credit: Bored Panda ❓Guess what I am searching through for tomorrow's appointment with the vascular specialist? #APS #Edema #PAM2026 #PainAwarenessMonth #AutoimmuneDisease #AntiphospholipidSyndrome #MySeveralWorlds

032

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 09/09/2026

There is a severe shortage of pain specialists w approx 30,000 Americans in pain for every board certified pain specialist. This shortage is caused by a difficult path to specializing in pain treatment & negative public scrutiny. MySeveralWorlds.com #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain

Did You Know?

"There is a severe shortage of pain specialists with approximately 30,000 Americans in pain for every board certified pain specialist.
This shortage is caused by a difficult path to specializing in pain treatment plus negative public scrutiny."

Credit: MySeveral Worlds.com

#PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #LifeWithPain #LetsTalkAboutPain

041

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 04/09/2026

High intensity #ChronicPainfeels like being wrapped in barbed wire. When symptoms such as stabbing and electric pain start hitting at high intensity, #depression follows fast and your #MentalHealth spirals. It feels like you are dying. ~Carrie, MySeveralWorlds.com #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026

052

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 03/09/2026

Imagine living with several diseases known as the most painful diseases in the world and they are measured as being equal to or higher than the pain experienced during childbirth. The McGill Pain Index built the index on patient responses. #PainAwarenessMonth #PAM2026 #MySeveralWorlds

031

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 02/09/2026

Most of the time I live with high impact, widespread CONSTANT chronic pain. Last week, high impact, widespread INTERMITTENT chronic pain started up. In many ways intermittent pain is worse. It's like drilling into your body many times throughout the day. #MySeveralWorlds #PAM2026 #LetsTalkAboutPain

I’m talking about the difference between CONSTANT and INTERMITTENT chronic pain for #PainAwarenessMonth.

If you use pain or symptom trackers, it’s important to note what kind of pain you’re experiencing. Over time, patterns start to emerge. Those patterns help you build routines that work with your body instead of against it.

Here’s a pattern I’ve noticed, which is tied to weather and stress.

Most of the time, I live with high-impact, widespread CONSTANT chronic pain.

But this week, high-impact, widespread INTERMITTENT pain kicked in. It starts around 9am and then comes and goes for the rest of the day. At some point it will switch to CONSTANT drilling widespread pain again.

And honestly? Intermittent pain can feel worse.

With constant pain, your brain kind of adapts. It learns to compartmentalize.

With intermittent pain, it’s like getting hit over and over again with sharp, acute spikes that never quite let you settle.

That’s something I always take note of. New patterns go straight into my notes for my next appointment.

As for how I manage it?

Same as always:
rest, ice, compression, elevation… and more pain patches. 🤷‍♀️

👉 Follow My Several Worlds for daily updates.

#MySeveralWorlds #PAM2026 #ChronicPainIsLike #LetsTalkAboutPain #PainAwareness #PainCounts

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 01/09/2026

"Pain is the #1 symptom for which people consult doctors. Abuse of opioids by pain patients is extremely rare. Not treating people who are in pain is barbaric. It's unfortunate that so many doctors are so far behind the times." @docbear7.bsky.social #MySeveralWorlds #PAM2026 #PainAwarenessMonth

September is #PainAwarenessMonth and #ArthritisAwarenessMonth.

FRIENDLY REMINDER from
Dr. Emmett Smith aka @DocBear

"I've said this many times: Pain is the #1 symptom for which people consult doctors. Abuse of opioids by pain patients is extremely rare. Not treating people who are in pain is barbaric.

It's unfortunate that so many doctors are so far behind the times as regards these topics."

#MySeveralWorlds #PAM2026 #LifeWithPain

031

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 31/08/2026

Turns out, you travel more with a chronic illness Mostly to... ✔️ doctor's appointments ✔️ specialists ✔️ bloodwork ✔️ imaging ✔️ the emergency room ✔️ back to bed Credit: The You Look Fine Club #MySeveralWorlds #MyChronicLife #ChronicTruths

022

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 30/08/2026

If you have a friend who checks in on you when you're quiet... You have a friend who lets you vent about the same thing over and over... If you have a friend who makes time for you even when they are busy... If you have a friend who has seen you at your lowest and still loves you... KEEP THEM!

If you have a friend who checks
in on you when
You're quiet...
Keep them.

You have a friend who lets you
vent about the same thing over and over...
Keep them.

If you have a friend who makes time for you even when they
are busy...
Keep them.

If you have a friend who has seen you at your lowest and still loves you...
Keep them.

Credit: Learning Petals

#MySeveralWorlds #LifeReminders #FriendsSupportingFriends

031

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 29/08/2026

"Sometimes I don't want to have to tell you that I'm not doing well. I just want you to notice." Credit Unknown #MySeveralWorlds #MyChronicLife #ButYouDontLookSick

152

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 28/08/2026

"Being stuck in bed with #ChronicIllness is NOT the same as a healthy person tired in bed. It may sound and look the same but it is NOT the same. Choosing to stay in bed & being forced to stay in bed are completely different physically & mentally." @invisiblysicklala #MySeveralWorlds #ChronicTruths

"Being stuck in bed due to chronic illness is NOT the same as a healthy person relaxing or tired in bed. It may sound and look the same but it does NOT feel the same.

Choosing to stay in bed and being forced to stay in bed are completely different physically & mentally."

Credit: @invisiblysicklala

#MySeveralWorlds #ChronicTruths #LifeWithChronicIllness

052

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 28/08/2026

Sometimes disabled people do extraordinary things because there is no other alternative. Sometimes we borrow heavily from tomorrow’s spoons. At times necessity overrides every smoke signal our bodies are giving us. ~Carrie, #MySeveralWorlds #PEM #Pacing #DisabilityAwareness

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 28/08/2026

I was using a wheelchair. Paying enormous medical costs. Working while profoundly ill. Asking directly for help and told “We're not there yet.” Years later, I finally understand I had been there all along. 🔗 www.myseveralworlds.com/2026/08/25/c... #MySeveralWorlds #DisabilityAwareness

Carrie is sitting in a wheelchair looking very sick. She is wearing a blue kitty mask. Text across her banner says 'How Sick Did I Have To Get Before My Disability Was Enough?'

020

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 27/08/2026

ODD SYMPTOMS OF FIBROMYALGIA * Numbness & tingling * Restless Leg Syndrome * Interstitial Cystitis * Paraspinal lumbar tenderness * Sensitivity to touch * Excessive sweating * Skin lumps * Muscle spasms * Face/jaw pain * Digestive issues @dearfibromyalgia #MySeveralWorlds #FibroNerds

ODD SYMPTOMS OF
FIBROMYALGIA

* Numbness and tingling
* Restless Leg Syndrome
* Interstitial Cystitis
* Paraspinal lumbar tenderness * Sensitivity to touch (Allodynia) * Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
* Skin lumps (lipomas)
* Muscle spasms (dystonia)
* Face or jaw pain (like
temporomandibular joint syndrome)
* Digestive issues (like irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, or bloating)

Credit: Dear Fibromyalgia @dear fibromyalgia

#MySeveralWorlds #FibroNerds #SupportFibro #TeamFibro #FibromyalgiaAwareness

000

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 23/08/2026

#Costochondritis 1. Chest pain: Sharp or aching near the breastbone and ribs. 2. Tenderness: Sensitive to touch in the rib cage. 3. Pain with movement 4. Pain spreading 5. Swelling (rare) Credit: Fibro Colors #FibromyalgiaWarrior #LifeWithPain #AxSpA #MySeveralWorlds

#Costochondritis

1. Chest pain: Sharp or aching near the breastbone and ribs.

2. Tenderness: Sensitive to touch in the rib cage.

3. Pain with movement: Breathing, coughing, or physical activity worsens it.

4. Pain spreading: May radiate to the back, shoulders, or arms.

5. Swelling (rare): Mild swelling near the affected area.

Credit: Fibro Colors Fibromyalgia Awareness

#FibromyalgiaWarrior #LifeWithPain #AxSpA #MySeveralWorlds

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 22/08/2026

ACTIVITY Going out for a walk - 1 Day Cleaning your room - 6 Hours Cooking a meal - 2-3 Hours Doing laundry - 4 Hours Medical Admin - 8 Hours Having visitors - 1-2 Days Running errands - 2 Days Going out with friends - 4 Days Credit Unknown #MySeveralWorlds #Pacing #BoomAndBust #PEM #pwME

The Hidden Costs of Living with a Chronic Illness

The minimum recovery time for each activity is beside each activity.

ACTIVITY
Going out for a walk - 1 Day
Cleaning your room - 6 Hours
Cooking a meal - 2-3 Hours
Doing laundry - 4 Hours
Medical Admin - 8 Hours
Having visitors - 1-2 Days
Running errands - 2 Days
Going out with friends - 4 Days

Credit Unknown

#MySeveralWorlds #Pacing #BoomAndBust #PEM #pwME #LifeWithChronicIllness

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 21/08/2026

"The fibro body can certainly take longer to heal after any trauma, surgery, invasive procedure or accident. It can affect not only muscles, but tendons, ligaments, joints, bones, blood vessels, organs and multiple systems of the body." #MySeveralWorlds #SupportFibro #TeamFibro #FibroNerds

FIBRO FACTO:

"The fibro body can certainly take longer to heal after any trauma, surgery, invasive procedure or accident.

Even a simple blood draw can act like a trauma to the fibro body.

It can affect not only muscles, but tendons, ligaments, joints, bones, blood vessels, organs and multiple systems of the body."

Credit: LIVING SMARTER WITH FIBROMYALGIA.COM ©

#MySeveralWorlds #SupportFibro #TeamFibro #FibroNerds #LifeWithPain. #FibromyalgiaAwareness

000

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 18/08/2026

"Being disabled shouldn't equal being poor. Abolish the sub-minimum wage, increase income caps for disability assistance, and establish universal basic income." Credit: Liberal Jane Illustration #MySeveralWorlds #ThePovertyTrap #DisabilityInclusion #DisabilityAwareness

052

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 14/08/2026

"Nothing happened. My immune system just woke up and chose violence. Again." Credit: Postwil #MySeveralWorlds #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicInflammation

062

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 13/08/2026

A quick update that my handle has changed to @myseveralworlds.com. (Hurray!) After a long eight month battle, I just got into #ODSP. It feels very strange to have been recognized as formally and permanently disabled by the Taiwan govt AND the Canadian govt. #DisabilityAwareness

Carrie is sitting outside. She has long brown hair and gray eyes. You cannot see her mobility aids in this photo

140

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 13/08/2026

hoping your body chills the hell out and lets you live for once, you beautiful disaster. Credit: @dear_chronic_pain #MySeveralWorlds #ChronicIllnessAwareness

031

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 12/08/2026

HYPERREACTIVE BRAIN NETWORK MAY BE CAUSE OF CHRONIC PAIN IN FIBROMYALGIA Hypersensitivity in #fibromyalgia isn't the same things as being "too sensitive" in the way people usually mean when they throw that phrase around. @FibromyalgiaDiary #MySeveralWorlds #FibromyalgiaAwareness #ChronicPain

051

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 10/08/2026

Was just thinking last night that my labs must be climbing as it's back! Signs of #Inflammation ✔️ Swollen lymph nodes ✔️ Low energy ✔️ Skin inflammation ✔️ Altered mucus secretion ✔️ Aches, joint pain ✔️ Brain fog ✔️ Feeling hot ✔️ Poor memory ✔️ Fatigue Unknown #MySeveralWorlds #AxSpA #PsoriaticArthritis

Was just thinking last night that my labs must be climbing as it's back!

Signs of Inflammation

✔️ Swelling, swollen lymph nodes
✔️ Low energy
Weight gain, dificulty losing weight
✔️ Skin inflammation
✔️ Altered mucus secretion
✔️ Aches, joint pain
✔️ Brain fog
✔️ Feeling hot
✔️ Poor memory
✔️ Fatigue

Credit Unknown

#MySeveralWorlds #Inflammation #AxSpA #PsoriaticArthritis

021

Carrie Marshall - MySeveralWorlds.com @myseveralworlds.com · 09/08/2026

Chronic Illness is just "here's a referral to get another referral to get another referral to get another referral to get another referral” until you get medical fatigue. Credit: MyBodylsTryingToKillMe #MySeveralWorlds #ChronicIllnessAwareness #MedicalBurnout

021