Dysautonomia invaded my life one fraction at a time, leaving broken shards of my life shattered like glass.
Dearest Readers,
October is not only everyone’s favorite month it is also Dysautonomia Awareness. Dysautonomia is not rare, but it is not commonly known. There are an estimated seventy million cases diagnosed in the United States and many more undiagnosed.
What Is Dysautonomia?
“Dysautonomia is an umbrella term used to describe several different medical conditions that cause a malfunction of the Autonomic Nervous System. The Autonomic Nervous System controls the “automatic” functions of the body that we do not consciously think about, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, dilation and constriction of the pupils of the eye, kidney function, and temperature control. People living with various forms of dysautonomia have trouble regulating these systems, which can result in lightheadedness, fainting, unstable blood pressure, abnormal heart rates, malnutrition, and in severe cases, death.” from Dysautonomia International
There is no cure.
My Diagnosis
I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome five and a half years ago; after many episodes of fainting, memory loss, low sodium counts, EMT calls, doctor’s visits, and stroke-like symptoms.
Dysautonomia invaded my life one fraction at a time, leaving broken shards of my life shattered like glass.
Test after test. And then the day came when I lost the use of my legs and partially my arms. I could no longer stand on my own, bathe or dress. I required constant care.
Being terrified was an understatement. My life as I knew it had derailed without permission. I had gone from a long distance runner to a mere shell of my former self. My quality of life was twenty percent at best.
Beyond The Diagnosis
After multiple trips to Duke Dysautonomia Clinic, trial and error with various medications, and my local neurologist, today my quality of life averages sixty percent, give or take on any given day.
It took two years to get to where I am today. I have come to accept today looks different, and I have learned to adjust my day according to my body’s needs. Each doctor’s visit often brings a new layer and another diagnosis. Early onset Osteoporosis, Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome, and others.
With each new layer, there are further adjustments.
With each new day, I have learned to thrive and not merely survive, in this, My Wilderness Place. Good community, a good dog and my Sweet Man support me.
I have learned to rely on God, my ever-present Refuge. I am learning in the hard edges of Chronic Disease; I am stronger with Christ’s strength in me.
I am not defined by illness, but by the hope of my salvation. What was meant to take me down has become a place of victory.
“But those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (CSB)
Gifts of Grace
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I’m blessed to serve you in this place, to share with you the Gifts of Grace as I journey through the wilderness. I picture you across the table, hands wrapped tightly around your cup, sharing life, and laughter, and tears. As I share with you, my daily struggles, I long to hear what yours may be. You can do that by commenting below or reaching out to me here.
PS: My first book, Mornings In The Word is available now. Order your copy today.
A few of my favorite posts:
Holding This Tension: A Balancing Act
Coffee and Reflection: October Edition
Spiritual Retreat: When You Are Desperate For Time Alone With God

The Pastor I used to work withs youngest daughter has POTS. I learned a lot about this illness from your post today. Thanks!
Oh, Tara, I will be praying for her! There is a lot of young people.
XO
Wow, Tammy. What a beautiful testimony. I love how you are growing closer to God through your pain instead of growing bitter. God bless you!
Thank you, Ashley. In so many ways, it has been the thing that has grown me in my relationship with Him the most.
XO
“I am learning in the hard edges of Chronic Disease; I am stronger with Christ’s strength in me.” Amen. Thank you for expressing so well the heart that Jesus wants to give us through these trials. You are a blessing Tammy!
So are you, Bettie!
XO
I had not heard of your condition and am so sorry to hear about the challenges you face because of it. The temporary paralysis of sorts must have been incredibly frightening. So glad you are able to make the best of it and use it to tell other’s about Jesus. Visiting you today from Holley Gerth’s link up. laurensparks.net
Hey Lauren, I’m glad you stopped by!
XO
It doesn’t define you. Jesus does and I love you to the moon.
Love you!! I’m so excited for your adventure! You can be a #roadblogger!
XO
Since I started praying for people I have heard of so many illnesses that I had never heard of, and from all ages. And they do appear to have more than ailment. You are right about adjusting your day,and the fear that is involved. It is quite easy to pray, but with much more empathy when you have experienced something and found healing. Fear is the worst enemy, focusing on His love is powerful, glad you shared this today. The Lord will fight for you just be still. Exodus 14:14.
Thank you for sharing Rebecca!
XO
You continue to inspire me with your tenacity, strength and unflinching faith. You are amazing! Praying for you!
Thank you, Karen…But God!
XO
Aw, I am so sorry! I love how God continues to use you and your vibrant words of encouragement for others who find themselves in wilderness places.
Thank you, Anita!
XO
Tammy, I had not heard of your illness until you shared about it. You are a brave and faith-filled woman and truly an inspiration. Your book, Mornings In The Word was just beautiful and our morning study group was blessed for having read it. May God continue to keep you and use you. Blessings!
Joanne, thank you for your sweet, kind, and encouraging words!
XO
Thank you for these encouraging words. I love this —> “I am not defined by illness, but by the hope of my salvation. What was meant to take me down has become a place of victory.”
Amen! Blessings to you!
Blessings to you, Mary!
XO