Christmas Survival Kit for Chronic Illness

I think the holidays are stressful no matter who you are, but you add chronic illness to the equation and you’re sure to be stressed and exhausted while being left with no spoons to end the year.  Hello, incoming flare!

Repeat with me… I will survive the holidays.  This has been my mantra since the beginning of November.  Since then I’ve been thinking of all the things I need so I’m not taken out by the exhaustion of the holidays.  Some may not be necessary, but it helps my mental health.  I’m sharing with you!

• Stickers
• Journal to document flares
• Compression socks
• Electrolytes
• Mobility aids
• Giant jar of pickles
• Melatonin
• Cozy blanket for low spoon days
• Fuzzy socks
• Rechargeable hand warmers
• Tissues/Lotions/Lip Balm
• Grabber Tool

Can I get an amen for the Costco sized jar of pickles?!

Some of these might be no-brainers.  Compression socks, mobility aids, and medical grade electrolytes like NormaLyte can be especially important if you have Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, or POTS.  Others may not be as easily understood.  

Things like melatonin can be great for chronic illnesses that prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.  Sleep which is greatly needed on holidays.  Hand warmers are great for keeping your hands warm when you have Raynaud’s Syndrome.  The grabber tool would be perfect for those who have a hard time bending over without feeling faint.

During the holidays when I have to leave my home and visit friends and family outside my home I ensure that I have medical grade electrolytes with me.  They have been a lifesaver when I’ve had brain fog and the inevitable fatigue I can experience after overdoing it.  NormaLyte is perfect for on the go.

This list would also be a great compilation of things people with chronic illness want as stocking stuffers!  What’s on your list?