#1 Stampin’ Up! UK Demonstrator Pootles – Team Craft Swaps and My Ill Health
Hi Everyone.
I was recently asked if I’ve stopped doing videos completely, and while I’m a very private person normally, I’ve decided to give you a bit more of an insight into my health right now. I’m not ‘ill’ in the sense of being ill, feeling ill, etc etc. But I do have some health issues going on.
I’ve got stage 4 endometriosis, which has come as a shock at the age of 50, after 2 years of scans, bloods, MRIs etc (my most recent MRI was week before last!).
I have also been battling a thyroid issue for the last 12 months, and by battle – I’m doing battle with what I believe is an extreme misdiagnosis and horrendous medication – another blood test for that is on Monday! The symptoms I have are the polar opposite of what I’m being treated for….The 2 things on their own cause extreme fatigue, as well as lots of pain, but throw in pain killers, medication (the wrong stuff, I’m convinced of it!), and that’s made for a total wipeout of my energy levels.
If anyone has been pregnant in the past, and you recall that trimester when you are beyond exhausted and just want to sleep and sleep, and your body can’t do much? It’s just like that!
On the upside, I’m thankfully not menopausal, so there’s that I guess..! And following some comments of folks in my craft forum, it’s not Fibromyalgia. Though my heart absolutely goes out to anyone suffering with an autoimmune disease, life must be very hard. You’re frankly amazing.
So because of the fatigue and the pain from the endometriosis (I can pretty much point with a finger to where each bit of pain is!!!), I spend much of my time resting to negate the pain, and then inevitably nodding off because of the fatigue. But I’ve been able to do some things from the comfort of my easy chair, and continue to share ideas on social media and my blog.
I’ve also written what feels like dozens of notes and ideas of things I want to create and share. I just now need some energy and a less fuzzy brain to kick in so that I can turn them into projects and videos for you all.
So I am still here, very much so, just not moving much past my cosy chair right now.
We did have our team retreat last weekend, and my remarkable team had a great DIY weekend. I provided 2 scrapbook kits to work from, and then 3 ‘freestyle’ projects too. And of course, we did do swaps, which is what are in this video!Love you all
S x
I hope you enjoyed this project, I absolutely adore what I do and spend many hours working on designs, new projects, new ideas and more.
I love to spoil all the people who shop with me, so every month I post out a handmade card, an exclusive newsletter and a product gift too.
And if you use the hostess code, I send even more free product! (hostess code shown in the top right of my blog for the current one!) Learn more HERE. If your order is over £150, please do not use this code as You become the hostess and get the Rewards!
Sam Hammond Donald
#1 Stampin’ Up! UK Independent Demonstrator
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- You can buy Stampin’ Up! online easily through my Stampin’ Up! shop link on the right hand side, or within this blog post.
- You can also join Stampin’ Up! through similar links too! I have various FAQ and joining Stampin’ Up! pages on the blog, so do click around!
- I cover the UK, Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, France and Austria with my shop, but also my team too, so you can join me in those countries also!
- And of course, you can find me on facebook, instagram, pinterest and on YouTube as a Guru with my account name as PootlesPapercraft, however, I’m scattered everywhere as Pootles!
Thanks for the update Sam, you and your family are on my Prayer list hoping you get it sorted soon.
I am away for a few days, so I watch your YouTube later. Keep your fabulous smile. BIG HUGS from me. ❤️
Prayers for a correct diagnosis and treatment! I may miss your smile, creativity, and catwalks, but your health comes first! You are not alone in this journey, we are with you!
Thanks so much for sharing your goodies! It was wonderful to hear your voice – you were missed! Get well soon wishes to you – it’s no fun being to exhausted all the time!
so sorry to hear of your health problems, Sam. Take care of yourself and rest. Thinking of you
Thanks for letting us know more about what is going on, sorry to hear about your health. Please take care and hope you get the right diagnosis and medications to deal with it all. You have been MISSED and now I will definitely put you on my prayer list. I hope all goes well and look forward to your amazing work when you are feeling well enough to do it and share with us.
Praying for you, Sam, that God will heal you. Take comfort in his peace and promises
Thank you for the update. So sorry for the health issues and as stated above, we are all praying for you to get well.
We miss you. Take care, and take it easy.
Blessings.
It is so wonderful to hear your beautiful voice and accent. Sorry you are having to go through all of this. I have gone through endometriosis and it is no fun. I now have fibromyalgia and that’s not fun either. Prayers for your quick recovery.
From Fab of the USA,
Vicksburg, MS
I am so very sorry that you are dealing with so many health problems. It is super frustrating when you feel that you do not have a correct diagnosis. You have to be your own best advocate to get proper health care these days. I hope that you can get answers soon and be on your way to recovery. Praying for you and your family.
Hi cutie. You have a huge prayer group in the U.S. too ❤️. Can’t wait to grab a cup of coffee and watch you and the kitties make those beautiful boxes and bags. Until then…loads of love to you and your beautiful family. BIG HUGS.
So sorry to hear of your health struggles. Loving thoughts and well wishes coming your way from Canada.
Hope you’re feeling better soon and that you get a correct diagnosis
Take care
Thanks for sharing. Navigating the cause and solutions for health situations can be tricky and exhausting in itself. Wishing you strength as you search for answers and know that your persistence will be worth it!
Dear Samantha,
I started having hot flashes and menopause in my early 30’s. I learned I had endometriosis in my early 40’s. At almost 44, I had everything removed and started estrogen. I never felt better. Fast forward to nearly age 55, the Dr took me off the estrogen. It’s been downhill since. I attributed it to my age, but am now looking into my hormones and am wanting to start back on estrogen to see if it helps. There are studies about this and they are learning more about treating with hormones.
I will be praying for you and all your issues. It is not a piece of cake when it comes to aging. I will be 74 in 1 month. Time passes by so quickly, I miss your lovely British voice and accent. But fully understand what you are going through and decisions that you need to make.
sincerely, Brenda West