Kindnesses Navigating the Storms

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Invisible Disabilities! But Why Don’t You See ME?

Chronically ill people often feel unseen by others. But why? Because social isolation may be caused by their invisible disabilities. And this leads to feeling lonely. Can the isolation be mitigated and the loneliness decreased? In the early years of my problems (after recovering from the initial severe injuries), my limitations did not isolate me […]

I Can Help, But How?

How can you help chronically ill friends? News flash: Thoughtful storm observers already spend time helping their dweller friends. Often these caring observers want to assist even more; they just don’t know how. Helping the invisibly disabled can be as simple as a phone call letting them know they are remembered or as involved as […]

My Tribute to Karen Baker: My Friend, My Supportive Observer

We met Karen 19 years ago when Joe and I moved to Gold Beach, OR for Joe to become the new pastor at her church. Thus, began a friendship that lasted all these years. It ended March 31, 2019 when Karen joined Jesus. Although we moved on after two years, we retained our friendship. We […]

How To Support Your Invisibly Disabled Friend

Out of sight, out of mind. Does that apply to your friend or family member? You know she has a physical problem that prevents her from socializing like she used to. You may even understand his problems. But, do you forget she’s around somewhere just because you don’t see her much? You don’t mean to, […]

Attention: Caregivers Really Do Need Your Help!

Helping caregivers of invisibly disabled people relieves their stress. What stress? They’re able-bodied; what problems do they have? Stresses on their time, abilities, emotions, and often their income. Do our caregivers need help? Why? Aren’t they doing just fine? You’re the one that hurts, not them. Observer, you understand your friend is invisibly disabled, but […]

Are You REALLY There for Your Friend?

You care about your friend. You even call her sometimes. But does he know you REALLY care? Are you there to hold her hand, either metaphorically or physically, when she hurts? Does he know you understand that he has serious problems, even if you can’t understand or see the difficulties themselves? (Sometimes, we don’t even […]

Thanksgiving – With a Little Help

Creating a Thanksgiving invisibly disabled people can participate in and enjoy takes advance planning and some imagination and even ingenuity.Sometimes, it’s hard for a person to be thankful when he’s hurting or she’s sidelined. Or maybe he’s just received an unwanted diagnosis. Perhaps she’s going through a time of exacerbation.Here are some ideas for you […]

Esther Collingwood: One Impact of Her Life

As I sit here mulling over the life of Esther Collingwood,I realize I didn’t really know her that well. Our primary connection in the last couple years was through Facebook. And yet, I feel such a keen sense of loss. Esther’s kindness to me One morning at Church, this friendly lady came up to me and […]

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