Just want to talk and get some advice

Catherine, your comment, 'I feel unmoored from the dock' is perfect! When we hear our diagnosis its as though everything that held life in place, made sense, kept us going through the tough times, gave us joy etc. etc. has slipped away, a friend said, 'Its like I'm slipping on fishes!' Meaning that even the ground feels weird under our feet! I realised after a few months that I actually still had my hand on the tiller, there were things and events that made sense and kept me mentally and emotionally healthy. I have severe peripheral neuropathy in my feet and the pain is cruel, it is impacting on my quality of life and I've had to adjust. I'm also a sole traveller but have learned to ask, never easy, but I am becoming better as I've come to understand just how much people want/need to feel that they are doing something to make my life a little easier. I've learned to appreciate their intentions which mostly come from care and compassion. Struggling to find meaning? Again, to be diagnosed is to have your world tipped upside down, I think we must create some new meanings and I've done that by becoming more aware of things I appreciate, I find that satisfying, eg, a text from a friend, birdsong in the garden, a decent cup of coffee etc. basically the simple things and that sustains me through those times when I feel totally fed up! To be able to chat on line with those who share similar experiences is GOLD!!!!