When I started writing Soul, I knew I wanted to create more than just a captivating story. I wanted to share something deeply personal—something that has shaped my life since I was 18. That "something" is fibromyalgia, a condition that has brought both challenges and revelations into my life over the past decade.
Now, at 27, as I reflect on my journey, I see how my experiences with chronic pain have not only tested me but strengthened me in ways I never could have imagined.
At 18, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. It was a time when most of my friends were thinking about their futures, exploring careers, and enjoying the freedom that comes with young adulthood. But for me, life took a different turn.
I was suddenly thrown into a world of unpredictable pain, fatigue, and flare-ups that could leave me feeling defeated. Learning to manage those bad days while embracing the good ones was—and still is—a massive change. But I took it all with strength and perseverance, determined not to let it define my life.
There have been moments when the pain felt unbearable, and flare-ups would leave me questioning how I could keep pushing forward. But I also discovered that I had an incredible inner strength, one I hadn’t fully realized before. It was in these moments of pain that I found inspiration to write, to create, and to share my story with others. Soul became an outlet for me to pour my heart into, an opportunity to not only create a powerful narrative but to raise awareness for chronic pain.
Fibromyalgia has taught me patience, resilience, and, above all, compassion—for myself and for others who silently struggle with invisible illnesses. Writing Soul has been a form of therapy for me, allowing me to express what it feels like to live with chronic pain, and through my characters, I hope to show others that they are not alone in their battles.
Recently, I was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), another condition that has added to the complexities of my health. While it was another unexpected blow, I’ve learned to keep my head up and keep moving forward. These challenges only push me harder in my writing. I want to inspire others, to show that no matter what obstacles life throws your way, you have the power to persevere and thrive.
Writing has become my way of transforming pain into purpose, and I hope that through Soul and the stories I continue to create, I can give others the strength to keep going.
Living with fibromyalgia and now PCOS has undeniably changed my life, but it has also taught me to embrace the present and cherish the small victories. It’s about knowing that even on the toughest days, there is always something to look forward to—a new chapter, a new story, a new moment of connection with others who understand.
So, for anyone out there struggling with chronic pain or navigating a new diagnosis, I want you to know this: you are stronger than you think, and your story matters. Don’t let these challenges bring you down. Instead, let them push you to achieve things you never thought possible. Together, we can raise awareness, support each other, and find strength in the shared experience of living with invisible illnesses.
And through it all, remember—you are doing amazing.
~ Georgia Spearing
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