Vacationing with Fibro

As a Fibro survivor and the proud supporter of two wonderful MS survivors, family vacations were not usually high on the list of things “To Do” and this is mostly because of all the considerations that have to be kept in mind when planning a trip that includes individuals with significant physical limitations. After I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, I actually dreaded the idea of even weekend trips because I would always end up one day into the trip and I was totally exhausted, in massive pain, and cranky as all get out not to mention that it would take 4 or 5 days just to recover. But I have in the past six months not only enjoyed several weekend excursions but a 5 day trip to San Antonio, Texas with my daughter and enjoyed every minute of it – and the key to my successful ventures is PLANNING and MODERATION!

Anyone will usually know at least a week in advance that they are taking a trip and I like to make it a two week window so that I can make sure everything is perfectly planned out. Yes everything! This allows me peace of mind that I have everything I need, the satisfaction of getting to do what I want to do, and not end up in mind numbing pain or tired beyond all belief.

Step One – Where are we going? My time share allows my daughter and I to take little weekend ventures and not worry about where to stay and the local attractions give us plenty of activities to choose from. Because I have to keep in mind that fatigue is the biggest trials for individuals with chronic illness, I only plan ONE ACTIVITY per day. If at the end of the day we are still feeling good, then we can throw in a swim in the pool or a round of put-put golf.

Step Two – What to take? Once I have my activities planned I can easily pack only what we need to take – this minimizes the amount of clothes and stuff that has to be hauled around! This includes meals! I like to eat healthy even if I am on vacation because I know that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial to my ability to enjoy myself. Its super easy to pack my USANA Nutrimeal Shakes for a fast easy breakfast or lunch and I plan simple dinners like grilled hamburger lettuce wraps, taco salad, or something else tasty we can grill. Planning your meals helps to avoid the weight gain that many people experience because they eat a lot of fast food when they are away from the house. If you are on medications, put those on the top of your packing list – the first thing in my bag are my HealthPak supplements and the migraine meds (I am a firm believer that if you have it you won’t need it but if you forget…it will be an unpleasant trip). It is also important to pack clothing that is suitable for the activities you are planning. Sure its fun it look cute but would you rather look cute or enjoy your trip without being in pain when you get home? Comfortable gym shoes are always on my packing list - this way I can do whatever I want and not have to worry about the pain.

Step Three – REST STOPS! Driving long distances is really unpleasant for Fibro and MS patients because we invariably get really STIFF and with that stiffness comes PAIN! (Please note that we did not put PAIN on the packing list!) When I am driving for more than an hour or two, I plan stops so that we can get out, use the latrine, and stretch. This can be tough when traveling with wheelchairs but I assure you that they appreciate the chance to stretch their legs too. Getting off the road also helps to keep the brain fog at bay – getting lulled into a foggy brain state could be very dangerous for everyone traveling with you.

Step Four – HAVE FUN!! Remember that moderation is the key to keeping your pain and fatigue under control. There is nothing wrong with taking a break in the middle of the day, you have to eat sometime, and then going back to your activities. Let your kiddos take a short nap while you rehydrate and cool down – many Fibro and MS patients are extremely sensitive to heat and making sure you keep cool is important. Don’t dwell on the things you “wish you could do” but rather ENJOY the things you can! Your family is not going to remember the things you didn’t do, they are going to talk about all the things you did do!

Don’t let your pain be the reason that you avoid vacationing with the family. You only live life once. Fill it with happy memories and fun times! Remember, careful planning and moderation is going to help you enjoy that vacation and the smiles and laughs of your family!