Disability and Stigma vs Support

[Alin RP]

I hope this is the right forum. I am disabled and suffer from chronic pain, as is/does my partner. Lately things have been rough, financially and socially because of these issues. So, I thought maybe having a place to share such struggles, and some positives, would be good for me and maybe others too.

The downsides: Sleep issues are increasingly affecting my life, and getting answers as to what's happening is cutting into my ability to work, which worsens financial stress.
My family blame all of my issues on my partner who has saved my life and supported me wholeheartedly. They've gone on to say some very hurtful things about us both.

 

The pros lately: Found family have been amazing. They've swooped me up in times I'd otherwise be stuck with unsupportive family, and provided financial and emotional support I'd never dream of.

[awkward-yet-sweet]

Having the support of family makes all the difference.  And found family can be way better than blood family.  I'm not exactly disabled, but I've had a couple of difficulties since I was assaulted/injured last year.  Probably the thing that hurts worst is the loss of some fine motor control in my hands due to TBI, which I can't seem to get back 100% no matter how much I practice.  I used to do graphic art, so I haven't been able to work for over a year now.  I'm also a bit clumsy and poorly balanced.  I slipped and fell and broke my ankle earlier this year. 

 

Having my forever family has been amazing.  I haven't ever needed to worry about financial stuff - my GF has paid all my bills for many years now.  I went from doing art work to doing more garden stuff, raising food for my family.  Its my way of contributing, and in addition to growing most of what we eat, we've sold excess produce for a bit of income.  Being part of a big family means I can be useful no matter how much or little I can do.  One of my partners is partially disabled from an accident years ago.  She's blind in one eye, has some hearing issues, and a few other difficulties.  She's unable to work outside the home, but she's an amazing mother and homemaker.  She and I work together most of the day.  Alone, each of us has vulnerabilities, but together we make a very effective team.