How I Deal with Chronic Pain - Build A Ladder
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 29 сен 2024
- Warning: this video will start out sad BUT I'd like to show you, start to finish, how I deal with the mental toll of Chronic Pain, how I refuse to give up, and how I continue to #buildaladder to pull myself out of a dark pit.
Hi, I'm Martina. I suffer from chronic pain as a result of having Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). You don't see it in our videos often, because I've learned to hide it, like so many of us with invisible illnesses. But on some days, the pain is unbearable, and I can barely focus. On those dark days it is easy for your mind to succumb to incredibly dark thoughts, but I've made up a type of mental visualization and personal mantra revolving around focusing on little things which help me to build a ladder out of my darkness.
Martina's Website is • ｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ 👑 www.kingkogi.ca 🐷 ｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆
You can find Martina:
puttering on her Instagram @ king.kogi
posting personal projects to her RUclips page @King Kogi
and live-streaming on Twitch
King Kogi RUclips: King Kogi
King Kogi Livestreams on Twitch - King Kogi
• ｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆
#buildaladder #chronicpain #EDS
![DDG & G Herbo - Nosey [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/I9Ra0Zc2NlQ/mqdefault.jpg)
![Tee Grizzley - Blow for Blow (feat. J. Cole) [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wNLN5xsx5dc/mqdefault.jpg)
You are a force. I appreciate your vulnerability, it's inspiring.🙏
+emmymadeinjapan you’re amazing and make great videos :)
emmymadeinjapan ahh emmy i didnt know you watch Simon and martina
I didn't know you watched Simon and Martina.
I too didnt know you watched Simon and Martina.
can we also just take a second to appreciate how amazing Simon is with Martina and how he is a solid rock next to her when she needs it. what a wonderful partner he is for her. no wonder, Martina is so lovely.
This is a tough video, but Martina is going to show you how she perseveres when her chronic pain gets overwhelming.
Hopefully this will help so many people suffering
I'm still crying, even after this video ends. Stay strong, Martina ~ Lots of love for you 💕💕💕
feel better soon martina! 🙋🙌🙆🙏💪
You guys, the both of you are so incredibly strong. Hold on dears. I only can hope that soon there are treatments that will make the pain go away. Big hugs.
Thanks for being an inspiration guys!
I really like the ladder concept. Chronic illnesses suck :( I like to try to cook something or clean something around the house even if it's just a sandwich or picking up the living room makes me feel more positive and like I accomplished something for the day. But some days when I have to work even just for 5 hours, that's all I can do for the day. Thank you for sharing your experience with chronic pain/illness ❤ and Simon is a good man, as is my husband 😊 I wouldn't get through most of my hard days without him
The fact that you and your husband both got degrees and emigrated to Korea and Japan and made a successful RUclips channel and web-site speaks volumes about overcoming your disability. You are an amazing woman and a great couple. :) I hope that someday maybe there is a better treatment or cure for you, but until then I wish you both the best. Estoy enviandote buenas vibras!
I have scoliosis and I needed this video. Thank you. I barely have gotten any sleep lately from my back just tearing me up and it's hard to be positive. Yesterday I was stuck crying and laying on the floor unable to move for a few hours so I crawled myself over to a book and read on the floor to start my ladder. I hope everyone else who watches this gets some hope too.
My depression makes it hard to concentrate on reading. However I love books, and I read a lot when I was younger. These days reading even just one chapter or page helps me #buildaladder on my bad days and I allow myself to be content with that until the day I can binge read again like I did before. Thank you Martina for this, this is really important topic and not many people show this raw footage of struggling. Thank you 💕✨
ahh I relate to this a lot! I've always been a bookworm, I would read for hours and hours and never tire of it! For the past few years, my mental health has made it so difficult to enjoy reading. It's hard to concentrate and everything takes so much effort, I no longer feel that love and enjoyment when I try to read a book. I'm trying to get back into it, because I want to _feel_ like me again and I know it will make me feel better if I accomplish something. Slowly I am adding rungs to my ladder, like trying to read again and seeing a psychologist. #BuildALadder I'm cheering for you~!
Serafiina Sigrid - I switched to audiobooks and podcasts. So much easier to concentrate (well, until I fall asleep 😴)
I felt broken when i saw Martina...
I don't have chronic pain, but i struggle with my mental health... I have traumas, disorders, insecurities..
❤ from another who is struggling make today the best it can be and i will to ❤
❤️❤️❤️ hugs to you
Emppos hope all the best u and martina too.keep strong.thanks martina for your honesty and brave. thumbs up to simon,such husband material
Emppos same here. I decided last year that I was no longer living out of my trauma. It's been a better year, I'm feeling more confident. Best to you, I know your struggle.
Emppos I can completely relate. Although I don't know you random human being, I think you are absolutely amazing. Also, smile at anyone who thinks/says otherwise because the jokes on them for being close-minded. Continue to be kind and to feel good about yourself. If someone treats you terrible and you are still kind, remember, you will always end up the stronger person. It also makes you feel good and strong about your soul because you're not allowing it to weaken. ♥️♥️♥️
I just finished watching Simon’s tattoo video about his past and watching this video about you Martina and your pain makes me appreciate every single video you guys have done even more. The love and support you two have for each other is amazing and strong. I’m so happy that you guys found each other. Stay strong both of you and we will always be here for you and supporting you two and all the adventures you guys go through❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing your struggles with us, Martina.
About 6 years ago, I got hit by an SUV and came out of it with a head injury. Nearly daily migraines are my new normal. It’s hard when all you want to do is stay in the dark comfort of your room and it most definitely exacerbates depression.
I will probably start trying to build my own ladder on the bad days, and will be sharing this video with my roommate, who also has EDS.
Keep fighting the good fight.
Huge kudos to both Martina AND Simon. You two are one of my favourite people on youtube and of course always #couplegoals. The strength and trust you give each other is amazing, not to mention how honest you are about the struggles of what you both go through as individuals and together. It is refreshing to see. Life isn't always perfect, peachy or pretty. Thank you for sharing this journey with the world and us. Keep building that ladder Martina. Also can we be best friends and watch Netflix and listen to George Michael?
I do understand what you are going through. I have Lupus, Crohns disease as well as multiple arthritic and organ deterioration that goes with my multiple conditions. I, like you, have loved ones who depend upon me, so I simply must take care of all my duties and push past the debilitating pain. I hurt for you, but, I am so PROUD that you get on with your life and push past your pain. Your an inspiration for all of us who watch your great videos.
I imagine it's probably tough to make a video like this and put yourself out there in such a vulnerable way, especially knowing how important it is to you to present positivity to the world, but it is *so important.* You change people's lives like this. So thank you.
I know that I really quickly fall into the trap of isolating myself when things feel bad. I've gone days without even talking to someone outside my family. Thank you for reminding me how important it is not to do that.
My heart grieves openly seeing you fight this with all your strength. And, knowing your husband is wholly committed to you is of great comfort and honor. ❤️
Oh Simon and Martina, this broke my heart. I have chronic depression and anxiety disorders and this just felt so close and familiar to me. I feel it was so generous of you both to share this, it count have been easy to make/publish. Martina, music is also a remedy for me and as i know you both a Drag Race fans, i really recommend some of the great Lipsyncing/ drag queen playlists on Spotify. Sending you both lots of love from Sydney xx
Claire Cooke I can totally relate as well I have similar things going on and I feel like I need to get better at leaving my house when things get bad. X
Martina, eres asombrosa, gracias por mostrarnos tu vulnerabilidad pero sobre todos tu gran fuerza. Cada vez que te veo me dan ganas de seguir adelante y ser más positiva. Sigamos Amando la vida. Te queremos desde Colombia.
kasumi2339 "Martina, you're amazing, thank you for showing us your vulnerability, and, above all, your great strength. Every time I see you you give me strength to keep moving forward and to be more positive. Let's keep loving life. We love you, from Colombia." Thought I'd translate it for the people that don't know Spanish.
Hey Martina, thank you so much for this video. As someone who is suffering from chronic depression it is definitely very empowering to see someone who has a chronic illness be so determined to be happy. Because if you can do it, then so can i. I have definitely gotten better recently, i get out of bed a couple hours aftet i woke up at most, and my first thought in the morning shifted from "i wish i was dead" to "i get to see my wonderful boyfriend today" as he's helped me a great deal. And i must say, ever since i started watching you guys in 2012 i've always wanted a relationship like yours. And now i have that. And it makes all the difference to have an actually supportive partner help you through tough times. So thank you simon for taking care of martina so well, and thank you for setting bar quite high for me because i now have my very own simon who helps me get through it all.
But anyway i'm just rambling bc i'm an emotional mess (every time i watch this video) so i just want to say thank you again and that i'm so proud of martina for kicking life in the teeth and going "screw you, i'm gonna enjoy my day no matter what!!"
Love you guys, hope you found your pants now. Its been a couple of years. 😀
Seeing you in pain makes me really sad and I really do hope that you feel better.
Oh my god, Martina, you're such a beautiful human being. You don't act like life is only just filled with cupcakes and butterflies, but you don't hesitate to show that you are a human and have some dark parts inside as well (as we all do). Embracing that, mentally challenging yourself to get out of that pit and being courageous enough to share that with your friends here. You are so brave and you really are a fighter. Girl, you badass. This video is so freaking inspirational.
Thank you so much for sharing this. I've been trying to see the small things as big accomplishments recently myself. Since living in China, I have never felt loneliness so strongly. I've grown an anxiety to going out because being a foreigner eyes are on me all the time - A HUGE life change from a small town country girl where the few people who might happen to be around pay absolutely no attention to me. Not knowing Chinese well enough to communicate also brings on anxiety. The rare moments I'm with someone I can't express the freedom that brings to me. But living on my own and not having anyone to rely on in the quickest moments puts on a lot of pressure. I was out the other day waiting for the bus and read a sign. Then it occurred to me, "Hey! I understood that." Something so small and insignificant became a victory for me to grab onto. I'm trying to find more of these to help me. Thanks again for sharing your methods to building a ladder. I hope I too can learn to build my own.
My heart literally broke... feel better soon Martina, you do you and this is honestly so inspiring even for someone who doesn’t deal w chronic pain. It’s amazing how much your mood shifted throughout the day and I’m Glad you made this video ❤️
Thanks Martina!
I've just had the courage to revisit your EDS and chronic pain videos, to listen (really listen) to what you're saying about building a ladder, instead of deciding that "I'm just not that positive" / "Yeah, but Martina's special". So really: thank you.
THANK YOU! I wish I had found this video sooner. So many things I can apply to my own life and situation. I don't deal with chronic pain but I have depression and find it incredibly difficult to pull myself out of a bad day. Seeing you build your ladder makes me want to build mine
Thank you a lot, Martina! It's been such a long time since I've visited your channel, and suddenly I saw this video. I am going trough a really hard time and this #buildaladder idea seems to be something that could maybe help me a lot. Every day I wake up feeling like I just "can't", and if I don't have anything to do on the day I end up just being swallowed by that bad feeling. Seeing how strong you are makes me wanna be more like you, makes me wanna power trough the bad stuff and build my own ladder too.
I hope you'll keep being strong as you are and that you'll more good days than bad days! Thank you!
I'm going to show this to my young cousin who also lives with chronic pain. #BuildALadder you guys are amazing
Always going to go back to this video when I'm having a rough time with my health. I know what it feels like to schedule multiple appointments/go to the ER just to be told my pain is all in my head. I got surgery last year after months of complaining about pain on my side. Had they taken my complaints seriously I wouldn't have had to get surgery. My perspective of the medical field is quite negative, but at least I know I'm not alone in this. You are such a strong, beautiful woman. And Simon is such a wonderful, caring husband. Sending you both much love❣
I love you Martina 💗💕💓💪 stay strong! You and Simon are the best💓😊
Thank you for this video, I know its probably hard to deal with chronic pain and I’d have no idea the pain or difficulty of it but I do have depression and this week has been very hard and being able to come back to this video to help me remember to not sit on that dark spot really helped thank you!! Love you guys so much !!
Martina, love, this is SO IMPORTANT, I'm so glad you made this video! I do not live with chronic pain, but I'm diagnosed with bipolar disorder and it's a similar struggle. Some days are amazing and I'm not only completely functional, I feel really good about myself and the world around me. But there are days when I only want to curl up in a ball and don't even get out of bed, cause life itself is too much to bear. Watching you get up, try to not let pain win... it just moved my heart, thank you so much!
I have a chronic disease that can be lethal or debilitating on a frequent basis. Mostly, I refuse to let it define all my days...but some days are tough. Glad to see YOUR determination, and thank you for being courageous enough to post about a bad day. You are inspiring!
You are really strong Martina ! I love you !
We love you Martina. I was diagnosed with depression after my mum passed away 2 years ago and even though my depression wasn’t caused by a condition, I know the vital, vital importance of appreciating when you succeed at just the lots of little things that make a big thing. You and Simon are such a joy to watch, we’re all here to lift you up when you need it the way you guys do for us.
I also have EDS and Ive been having a really rough pain day today. I was starting to get really down on myself. Then I remembered #buildaladder and I immediately felt better. Not only knowning that Im not alone but that there was a way to pull myself this dark hole, all I had to do was make that first rung. You help me so much Martina
This was a great video and I'm glad you were brave enough to put it out there. I'm sure it'll help alot of people going through something similar. It's definitely inspired me.
wow this was my first video I've seen from you martina, i came from a collab vid with rachelandjun channel. Everything you say is amazing, I suffer from chronic IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), everything i eat messes up my stomach/intestines and gives me pain (or #3 :/), i have to control and watch what i eat, or don't eat somedays as well. I love the tip you mentioned about pointing the spotlight outwards from yourself, this is so amazingly true. When i stay home with pain, the amount of pain i feel increases 100% of the time. If i do anything else to distract myself the pain lessens and if i leave the house and walk or drive the pain goes away. Internal babbling and talk when you're in pain is a horrible thing to do, it always only makes it worse for me in my experience. if i talk to anyone or do as you said, turn the attention or spotlight away from my internal thoughts it always makes me feel better. I need to just now remember and enforce it to myself whenever i feel shitty, but saying it and doing/enforcing it are two totally different things. ughh, the worst is when i get pain flare ups when i'm already out in public or midway through my day in university or wherever. it's then that life truly sucks, just have to deal with it. thank you so much for your amazing words, everything you say is soooo amazingly helpful. you're amazing.
Thank you for sharing! I was diagnosed with cancer in my twenties and struggle with chronic pain, a family and a job. I plan on applying these principles to my life. Your an inspiration! Thank you.
Thank you so much. this video really helped to show me that I'm not the only one that struggles in this world and that simple things can really help.
I have fibromyalgia, so I also suffer from chronic pain though not to the extent that you do. I just want to thank you for sharing this video, for showing the less than perfect days and how you get through them. Not everyone understands chronic pain so the more examples there are of it out there the better understanding of it there will be among family members, friends, and even random strangers who feel they have the right to comment on your life (kind of like this but when you don't have a RUclips channel which sort of invites comments).
Watching this again today. I am currently suffering a flare up of my nerve disorder making my right leg virtually unusable and stomach crazy sore. I need the motivation today to do the little things but I'm proud to say I got the motivation to have a shower, put on fresh pjs and sit on the couch instead of retreating to the cocoon that is my bed. I even managed to do some of my work from home (yay to an understanding employer) feeling a little bit better and it's just little things but it's better than crying in bed which is what I really want to do.
I have eds and chronic pain just found your channel. Thank you for your transparency
+Sarah Veley welcome to our channel! We mostly do videos about food and travel. Sometimes we talk about health, but not often. I hope you like our other videos as well!
Thank you for showing your pain, I know it's very hard to expose yourself. This is my first video on your channel. Thank you and subscribed.
I did an undershave about 4 months ago, it has been the best thing for my self care, I just couldnt keep up with my thick hair
I've just rewatched this video and I have so many thoughts and feelings now.
I love this video! It is hard to see you in pain, Martina, I won't deny that but you showing us this means a lot to me. You are real. You are authentic. And this is what made me fall in love with this channel in the first place.
Ever since I first saw this video, I try to build a ladder as well. It is not easy and it doesn't work every time but what you said about that spotlight is exactly what I and many others need to hear. I do still fall into pits but I can get out again.
I love bicycling and I've always done this to see things. I get so excited to see pretty flowers or nice gardens or animals. I do need to share what excites me and adventures seem boring if I am on my own but now I take pictures and share those instead.
I love being outside and it makes everything better. I can't be imprisoned all day in my tiny flat. I need fresh air and sunshine.
And you are right it is very important to go out and to go on an adventure and to find even the smallest things that make you smile.
I hope you are doing ok and good luck with KingKogi. He is the cutest.
(My plushie is a pig, too. But it has grey fur. A wolly biggy.)
George Micheal gets me through every day too! I have chronic pain as well but not to this extent. Keep going Martina! I hope your good days outweigh your bad ones ❤️
You're an inspiration, Martina ❤️
Thank you for this. It makes me not feel so al alone in my pain. I have fibromyalgia and degenerative joint disease and depression. I’m in so much pain I only take a shower one a week, it’s so painful. And I suffer from fatigue.
Today I got up got dressed and did some homework. I didn't accomplish a lot because of my chronic joint pain but I'm trying to to be proud of myself for little things and little steps #buildaladder
Thank you for this channel! What a Godsend!!!
I use youtube to help me turn my spotlight outward
love your channel name
deal with chronic ulcerative colitis (inflammation in my bowel as my immune system attacks it) and chronic migraine and so often just wanted to give up my education, social life and more since I used to live in my bathroom always, dealt with it the best I could and was so happy it went away with some pills but due to high stress and failed attempt to lower my anti-depression medication it came back even worse. Had to go on sick leave but finally found something that works for me tho it means lowering my immune system (which is high from my autism) making my easier getting sick and a Lil worse than normal people get. The migraine is just there popping up randomly or due to high anxiety or stress, used to take headache medication but it stopped working tho luckily have gotten something that works. All those ends up in I can't eat dairy as breakfast, can't be stressed and often feel burnt out, so with my deep depression and social anxiety I often just get the feeling I am just one of them that gets a lot of stuff, are happy you can take your time and show how every day can be dealing with such things and just bring awareness to it. I never heard of my mom ever say she had the same chronic migraine till she had me where it went away and the bowel is at birth but first actually showed up 2 years ago, always make jokes on the number of meds I take I could eat it as cereal but it feels like a lot plus I have my migraine stuff with me at all time if it comes up.
Wish you the best Martina and hope you'll get more good days
I just started a channel as an outlet for my chronic pain. I could relate a lot.
I just remembered to check our translations, and I realized that many of you have submitted subtitles in a lot of different languages. Thank you for helping, everyone. Subtitling isn't fun, i know. I really appreciate the effort. Thank you :D
I actually like making subtitles. Also, it's a little something I can give back to you guys.
Hi Martina. Great video. I don't login to youtube much but I wanted to say that I have met quite a few patients with EDS and I would recommend visiting a good rheumatologist who can help. Losing weight and shifting your diet over to a healthier one with less meat and more veggies such as a vegan diet has also shown to be quite helpful in controlling inflammation and pain. I know you and Simon are foodies, but having a healthier diet is definitely something to take into great consideration.
As I was watching I was thinking "I've got to put in portuguese subs, this is such an important video" and i was so happily surprised when I saw that someone already did! Thank you Simon and Martina for making the video and huge obrigada pro lindo(a) que legendou!!! Ficou lindo, aliás.
Jennifer Tran Cannabis is absolutely illegal in Japan.
My mom suffers from chronic pain because of a fracture in her spine and multiple really bad achieved surgerys. She does not understand english, that is why I expend the afternoon subtitling your beautiful video. I hope it can help her. A bad day to her it's a bad day for the whole family so we always try to cheer her up with bad jokes (she is the QUEEN of bad jokes), ugly dancing and funny TV shows. Also we play a lot of board games that make us concentrate and friendly fight with eachother. For us Distraction is the key to build our big family size ladder.
Also, NOTIFICATION SQUAD! We usually say something happy here, but this is kind of a sad video. I just wanted to say sorry if this gets you down. We'll get back to more fun videos soon. We've got a bunch filmed!
Simon and Martina no apologies beauty. Love you both so much! Lots of love!!!!
Simon and Martina We'll always be here to support you guys! You can do it Martina! #BuildALadder 💪💪💪 We love you!
Simon and Martina hugssssss
Thank you so much for sharing this!
Simon and Martina We can't always be fun and happy. We understand.
My God, Simon could not love you more! To hear the emotion in his voice is to know he will love you forever. Love and strength to you both xxxx
I thought this too. If they love, cherish and support you on the bad days then they are keepers!!
Seeing Martina like this makes me cry so hard but she is so strong and beautiful. She always pulls through and tries to hide her pain but her showing everyone this video is so inspiring!!! (PS. Simon is such an amazing support!!!)
Martina, this video was amazing. While I love how positive you are all the time, showing this side of chronic pain, and the ways you deal with practically, is so helpful. I have EDS as well (though I have the Classical type), and though mine is usually controlled pretty well, this last month has been really had with school and work. Thank you so much for having the courage to share this side of chronic pain
I applaud Martina. This took guts to put on the internet. Im on the city bus crying my eyes out
sophia frost yes it does. She had a great attitude
I'm only 1:20 in. I started sobbing. I have an unidentified auto immune and couldn't even pull weeds in my flower bed today. One year ago, I was training for my third half marathon and yanking overgrown bushes out of the ground by myself. Powering through anything. And now I can't even hang a wind chime successfully. It's been a hard day. Hard year...
I've watched your videos silently since you all first started. But I missed this one. I think it was meant to be saved for now.
Thank you for being so open about what's going on with you, Martina. I appreciate it so much, and hope I can help others get through this stuff someday as well.
Now I will finish watching the video. Thank you, guys.
Has it been diagnosed
Simon is my role model in helping my partner build his ladder.
I didn't want to get out of bed today. But literally as I was laying there checking my phone I saw your video come up and I watched it all. I got out of bed, I went to work, I even made it to the pharmacy to buy more medicine. Thank you for sharing how you build your ladder. I hate seeing how much pain you're in, but knowing that you still get up and build your ladder even when you want to do anything but makes me feel like I can do that too. Sending you and Simon all my best
You are so brave to publish this.
Thanks for all, Martina 💖✨ You are really strong!!
I think it's incredible to see the emotional transition throughout the day as Martina continues to make small decisions. That's such a heartwarming part of this video - to see that she can wake up feeling absolutely gone, but as she controls what makes her happy, she too starts to feel better. Her voice is higher, her eyes sparkle. Martina, you are the epitome of hard work, in the mind and on the body.
I started bawling the moment Martina came out of her bedroom. I love you both so much.
Sending many hugs and kisses to you both xoxo
I didn't believe superheroes existed before I heard Martina's story. She's truly a real life superhero.
So what about Cancer survivors ? They're not superheroes
I wonder if Simon was crying filming this :(
I'm a teacher. Many of my kids are dealing with trauma far beyond their years, and beyond their coping skills.
This video has already been so helpful to me personally. We talked about "building a ladder" in class today. I plan to continue talking about it.
I don't comment much on RUclips, but please know that you've had an impact on at least one person across the globe.
Thanks for your honesty and introspection.
+
+
+
Hey Martina, I know this is an old video, but....I always come back to this video to help me start the ladder.
So you'll be proud to hear....I got out of bed and took my first steps outside
My sister used to put a tiara on when she was having a bad day. She passed away 3 months ago from cancer at the age of 32. She also had MS for 10 years before being diagnosed with cancer. I miss her terribly but I have all of her tiaras so that when I'm having a bad day with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and panic disorder I pick one of them and wear it. It helps me feel close to her but also makes me feel a little better. One of the hardest things for me is getting out. I don't know that it really helps me, but talking with a friend or watching some you tube videos helps.
Thank you for showing us what one of your bad days looks like. I want to be able to spend more time with my son (10) and husband so maybe next time I want to just stay in bed and sleep it away, I'll get up and start small. We can always come back homer or continue on with our journey. I also think that having such a super supportive partner helps. I feel that my husband gets it some of the time, but on other days he just doesn't and makes me feel even worse. I'm not trying to deliberately avoid being with my family but I think he feels like I ALWAYS have a choice to get up and go. Sometimes that's super hard. Last night I didn't sleep at all. The night before that either. So that makes it really difficult to function in general, but then when you add all the other crap on top it almost seems impossible. But I'm going to try to build a ladder tonight and see if my boys want to go somewhere for dinner.
Thank you, Martina. ❤ And Simon, you're a really good egg.🦆 You seem to go with the flow of Martina can't get out. You'll go do something on your own but you don't make her feel bad about it. But you also seem to be such an encouragement and cheerleader for Martina too. You're a good man, Charlie Brown!!
Ok, I'm done now. Truly though, thank you for being so open and courageous about the challenges you face. It really does help to see someone succeeding that's in a similar situation to my own. 🦆
I can't express how deeply sorry I am for the loss of your beloved sister. When you are able to go out, you can experience every good moment on her behalf and in her honour; that way she will live on with you and through you, always 💖
Im so so sorry for your loss but I believe that you are an strong person ❤️
I think you are one of the greatest people!!! It is not easy to share a story like this....I am so sorry for everything and I know you went through a lot.But I can see that you are so strong and you can do anything!!!!! I really hope you see this comment.......
Maybe it will help to show him this video. It can be hard for some people to understand that another person can be experiencing a day in a fundamentally different way, so maybe watching this can help him see what it takes for another person experiencing something similar to you. I would also show him one of their regular videos so he can see how it isn't a matter of who the person is but rather what they're going through, you know? But, of course, the same goes for him too, I think. These things don't only affect us, they affect the people around us too, so be empathetic for his experience as well. Be gentle with each other. :)
I want to offer you a hug. Losing your sister can't be easy. I just hope that peace finds you and supports you even when the tears/grief show.
My five year old said you are a beautiful lady. She loves your cat. Hope you feel better! I suffer with depression so I go to gym, color or draw, put make up on. Talk to my grandpa.
Every time I need to rewatch this video, I’m going to thank you, Martina. Thank you. And thank you Simon for being an awesomely supportive spouse, this is so hard, you’re saving her life every day. Seeing y’all working together gives me hope. XOXOX
Thanks y’all, you keep saving me xoxox (I need a pig and a pig hat, STAT!)
@Sue W I wonder if he feels like he's failing you, because even though i've dealt with chronic pain longer than my husband has, he is in terrible shape, and I often avoid him. I feel my being around him makes him worse, so I build a wall. If you can, ask your husband how he feels when for going through the worst days, and if he feels overwhelmed by it all.
I got a huggy pig and I just got a pig hat... Thank you. Martina xoxo
#BuildALadder
@@debbieebbiebobebbie can you share the link to the pig hat? 🐷
We all love you Martina!
#buildaladder
I love you, Martina! I really, really do.
Stinky therapy dogs distract you from some pain with their terrible scent!
Oh, I love you so much!! This is so helpful in walking my baby girl, Aspen, through learning to live with a chronic illness. Handling the emotional piece has been a lot and since I haven’t had to deal with it I can’t fully understand what she is going through. Thank you for sharing the vulnerable moments in your life. You are so brave and so full of life and you fight for it! I want Aspen to do the same. Sending lots of love from the Dale tribe!!! xoxo - Amy
+The Dale Tribe it’s always great to see you in the comments. Thank you :)
Simon is literally the best husband ever he's so supportive and cares for Martina so much 😭❤️
"Good morning, my love". What a special couple. I've watched your videos for years, and appreciate that you've decided to share your experience with us. Hoping the best for you both.
It’s 0.07 seconds in and my eyes are already teary. Must be bc having following them for years you know the struggle she faces daily. And now she’s actually going to show it and I find her so incredibly strong. And now I’m crying and haven’t even started the video >.
lorenax17 Same here. And watching the progression from where they started to now and how Martina's condition has progressed also makes me sad. But the way Simon is always there is amazing.
Katherine Smith I agree! His support for her makes this relationship pure goals. :)
I have EDS too. Searching for videos about the condition was how I first found this channel. In the past, I was housebound at best, bedbound at worst. It became so unbearable that I contacted an assisted suicide facility. Sometimes I couldn't walk, sometimes I couldn't stand, sometimes I couldn't sit. There were days I couldn't even talk. I wasn't just ready to give up; I already had.
Martina, your last EDS video filled me with such hope and positivity that I still consider it the first rung of my own ladder. My health spontaneously improved, but if it hadn't been for your inspiration, I may never have tried to see what I was capable of. I could have stayed in that dark dark place, in that pit, if you hadn't helped me to heal. Now, I can go outside again. You were my pig hat. I will always be grateful to you and Simon 💓
NotMostGirls prayers to you! Thank you for sharing your story! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
NotMostGirls build that ladder girl ♡ Your story is inspiring
Kelly Wimer, thank you so very much, bless you 💓
Basic Avocado, thank you very much, that means so much to me 💓
Glitter that latter as you climb it, girl! Add some streamers the higher you get
Not gonna lie, I started crying within the first three seconds of this video. This video helps me feel extremely inspired, even though I’m not living with an illness or chronic pain.
It puts everything in perspective and makes everything seem more achievable, since i’m not the only trying to work through things. I’m not alone. Lately, I’ve had goals that I want to achieve, but my anxiety, depression, and fear has been holding me back. I know it won’t be easy and will take time, but I have this video when I need a helpful push. #buildaladder
God i’m teary, thank you.
Lee Hanel Same! Tears just stared pouring from my eyes as soon Martina started talking
Having just recently been diagnosed with EDS after 9 years of thinking it was only POTS, I really sometimes struggle to see myself living anywhere but where I am right now - 21 years old, jobless, not in school, living with my parents, having them do so much for me. There are days I don't even want to go to sleep because I know that it means waking up and starting the cycle all over again. But you know what? That's life. Everyone has shit they don't want to do, but they do it anyways. And why? Because whether you want to be part of the world around you or not, it will still go on.
And I hate it. I hate thinking that I'm so out of touch with myself, so out of touch with my entire life that it will continue to exist with or without me. It hits me harder than my chronic illnesses because at least I can try to control those. And so often I'm stuck between thinking, "There's more than this." and thinking, "This is all I've ever known."
But seeing a video like this? Where someone like me is functioning, even if it's just to make it to the end of the day, and able to still enjoy life through the pain? It makes me feel like hey! Maybe I can do it too. So thank you. Thank you for not shying away from the ugly days. Thank you for showing me that giving in is just as bad as doing nothing at all. Thank you for showing me that giving in isn't an option at all! Rome wasn't built in a day. And neither will my ladder.
Best of luck to you, well not luck but wishes. I hope that you can find a happy medium where everyday is a good day because you made something good out of it.
I believe doing things that make you happy won't take away all the bad stuff, the pain (physical or emotional/mental) but it means when you look back you can be proud you did more than stay in bed, even just doing this is a step forward to a better day.
Harper Reese Keep going sweetheart! You have a journey ahead of you, at 21 with a new diagnosis you are still very near the start. You expressed yourself so eloquently and with so much optimism that I am certain you will build an amazing ladder to take you to places you haven't yet dreamed of. Much love xx
Harper Reese You're doing great, keep fighting!
Harper Reese
WOW! How very beautifully you express the life of chronic pain sufferers! I'm desperately sorry for your pain and my heart hurts that you are so young, but I also see someone who is awakening to what's possible even while dealing with chronic pain. My advice to my patients (nurse 37+yrs retired) was always "You are not your disease. Your diagnosis is not what defines you. It gives you different parameters than those in good health, but as long as you are willing to stay within those parameters and do yourself no extra harm by" pushing through it", you are still able to participate in life. How you do that is up to you and your medical team, but please don't become your disease. It's what you have, not who you are. "
Thank you guys so much for the positivity! I will keep fighting, and I hope that I will find the best 'me' there is through all of this and take them to great places! ❤
Martina.
I am an American Navy combat veteran. I have loved your channel ever since the girl who became my wife introduced me 4 years ago. Thanks for being great!
I too know what it is like to deal with chronic pain. I was caught in an explosion caused by a suicide bomber masquerading as an Iraqi pirate while at sea. I was in a coma for 3 days with a 6 inch (15.24cm) piece of shrapnel sticking out of my forehead. The blast induced a thing called sudden nerve trauma or blast induced Neuro trauma depending on who you ask.
Seeing how you have coped with your affliction has been a source of strength for me and my wife.
I am sorry that I cannot do more for you other than say stay strong, be happy, love others, and be kind, everything else is secondary.
Pain hurts, love heals, life continues.
Be brave.
Simon is with you.
Best Regards,
Your fan,
Kristofer from The Bay.
Fair winds & following seas, brother. =)
Thank you for your service
mikatheraven My husband has TBI ( Traumatic Brain Injury) from IEDs in Afghanistan. The symptoms are very much like PTSD. We take every day one at a time, sometimes one moment at a time if needed. Sometimes we find ourselves overwhelmed, but even during those times we make an awful joke or do something ridiculous to make eachother laugh. What is shown in this video is so important to people who deal with illnesses or injuries that change almost every aspect of their lives. The little things are SO so very important when facing issues like this. Thanks for sharing 💪
Martina you have no idea how much these videos mean to me. I suffer from Chronic Reoccurring Multifocal Osteomyelitis. I'm 15 and I'm in such a hard time right now with my mental and physical health. You are such a role model for me. Seeing your videos make me feel like I can get over anything my life throws at me. Stay strong Martina
Simon you are such an amazing husband. Love the connection between you guys
Martina is an amazing woman. I've met a lot of people, but no one has what she has.
I am guilty of laying in bed on bad days and letting the depression take over. I don't have anyone around me who can understand why there are days where I can't do because my body hurts to much. It hurts to move, it hurts to sit still, it hurts to lie down and some days it just feels easier to curl into a ball on the bed and wait for a new day. Your determination has inspired me to "build a ladder" on the days I can to help me on the days I can't. It's only human to have times when you feel sorry for yourself and ask why me when everyone else can just live normal and it seems so unfair, but struggle builds strength. I remind myself as often as I can and now will try getting out there when I'm maybe not quite feeling up to it in the hope that I can improve my mood. Being in a bad mood while in pain just makes the pain worse. Thank you for inspiring and encouraging and reminding me I'm not alone in the struggle.
swetpmnkygrl your comment is super relatable and yeah, you are not alone!
You're not alone. I barely manage to wake up some days. Today I'm slightly better but I'm waiting for the pain to kick in soon. I can't deal with this anymore
swetpmnkygrl I relate to this so much. Thank you for sharing and chin up babe ♥️
So relatable. I was first diagnosed with depression at the age of 12. 37 now with a diagnosis of chronic depression. And within the last few years especially this year chronic pain started dominating. Along with fatigue severe exhaustion just from doing small tasks. I used to be able to work in the restaurant business move around stay on my feet for 12-hours work 40 50-hour weeks. I was able to manage my depression but all the sudden the bottom fell out lost my job everything just started going down and medications were no longer working. I've had them shipped it still nothing and nowadays I spend most of my time in bed. I may have one or two good days a week. With the laws where they aren't very difficult to get pain medication. even harder to get disability when you have a mental illness because they can't see it. Chronic depression is no joke. It eats away your brain slowly. And you find everything in your life slowly disappearing into you have nothing. then you're curled up in the bed most days and physical pain because the toll your brain has taken from the depression has now turned into physical problems chronic pain. people tell me I love you got up moving around more you wouldn't hurt well it hurts just to take one step out of bed some days. I've also been developing Parkinson's like symptoms from low dopamine levels that we're never noticed and never diagnosed. I just recently found that out a few months ago so that's freaking scary. But what this woman and this video is doing it so brave. Seeing her get up out of bed knowing she's all that pain is inspiring me to just push through it no matter how bad I hurt.
When I first found out of Martina's condition, I was devastated for her.
A year or so ago, I was diagnosed with Hypothryoidism.
I knew what she was going through was bad but I never thought I would suffer from my own chronic illness soon after.
Not only do I support you, but I greatly look up to you now.
You put such a bright smile and outlook on life even when suffering.
Although our illness are vastly different, I look up to you and how you can stay so strong.
You are a role model to me more now than ever.
Thanks Martina.
For keeping my spirits high.
#BuildALadder
P.S.
Simon, you are a great person. It's hard to find people that put full support to people who are suffering chronic illnesses. You are a blessing.
Bless you love, stay strong and keep building that ladder!
My sister has hyperthyroidism and she really struggled with it before she started taking medication. I hope you're doing well
when martina cries, i cry i just can't help it T_T
i really admire you... you're such a brave and strong woman to find ways to deal with your situation when it's so hard, when giving up is so easy.... and i think you help a lot of people..... i really think you deserve to be happy, life is unfair but i'm glad you search for and find encouragement in all those things.... thank you for encouraging others who deal with the same pain, thank you so much!
You go girl
Superheros don't wear capes, they wear pig's hats...sending some positive energy and hugs.
Jana Schott best comment ever
I didn’t want to watch this, because it’s hard to face my issues sometimes. I’m glad I did. I have EDS HYPERMOBILITY syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. I’m often in chronic pain and deal with a lot of shame about the fact I am overweight, I have to say it’s a bit chicken and egg the issue though, I want to lose weight but can’t exercise, but if I lose weight exercise would be more probable. I hate when people say “how are you?” How do I answer that? I hate when people didn’t know me before, when I was a lively, beautiful life and soul of the party. I am more than just my illness, but it is all consuming. Thank you for spreading awareness and making me feel less alone and less lonely. I wish I had a duckie, but I do have two wonderful understanding 15 year old boys, so I am very lucky, them not so much. X Rose
Milkymoles. Ohh I can so relate to the shame of being overweight due to serious and painful conditions. Being overweight or not being able to move also makes the pain worse, atleast that's how I feel. Or maybe it is just the mental pain affecting your body too, who knows. I think being overweight is just another symptom, and the real shame is that people don't understand that.
I also have a hard time losing weight. It's hard for me to exercise because I have type 1 diabetes and if I overdo exercise, I might have a low and undo all the good I just did for myself by having to eat something high in sugar. Also, insulin in the form that type 1 diabetics have to use causes us to hold onto fat more so than someone with a normal functioning pancreas. I know it's not a chronic pain thing, but the mental part can be somewhat similar and I do have depression on top of it. I never thought about #BuildALadder until Martina talked about it, but I'm considering finding myself a visual representation of it to help me take care of myself.
Milkymoles. I feel this
Milkymoles. I also relate to how all-consuming Chronic Intractable Pain illnesses can be. I completely lost everything; my career came crashing down in a very grand, public, humiliating fall from grace; my identity; my worth. I was a 120# 5'5" L&D/Pediatrics Nurse, Firefighter, Vol. Paramedic, black belt, equestrian, 4-H leader, H.S. Volleyball team mom... I was a dynamo. People who say that Fibromyalgia patient's are just looking for attention; are malingerers; just need to lose weight & get a life are full of schitt.
I have been very happily married to the Love of my life since I was 18. I was living my best life, working my dream job, with an absurdly well-behaved teenage Daughter. Until I got sick & the pain left me bed-ridden for over 2.5 years. Being unable to move, & b/c of the many medications I was on, I put on weight & topped out at 265 pounds. From 120 # to 265# in under 18 months. All of that was a symptom of my illness & a result of my pain & medication. None of it was selfish, attention-seeking, embellishments of my pain & symptoms. And it's asinine for anyone to say otherwise. It's an embarrassing, humiliating, painful situation to be in such an uncomfortable, overweight body condition. I felt terribly ashamed for my Husband & Daughter to have to be seen with me, or to have to acknowledge my relationship to them. I was bed-ridden due to the horrific pain, so I didn't leave home often, but when I did, if I saw someone we knew, or my Husband or Daughter ran into people they knew, I'd try to sneak away & hide so they wouldn't have to admit knowing me & be forced to introduce me to anyone. I felt terrible for them.
Finally I found a good Pain Management Dr. who quite literally saved my life, found a good pain medication for me, & gave me enough pain relief that I once again have some semblance of decent quality of life. And b/c I can walk again, I have lost 75 pounds. It's not great; it's not where I WANT to be, but it's a start. Most important, I don't feel as absolutely unworthy of love anymore. My Husband has always been amazing through this, & It's a huge gift to be able enjoy going out for a dinner-date together, or walking the Dog together.
One thing I know is that I could not have gotten through this without my amazing, wonderful Husband of 27 years.
It's hard enough to get through this WITH a wonderful, supportive, loving, understanding Husband; I can't imagine going through this alone, but I'd rather be alone than with a partner who not only wasn't supportive, but was actually demeaning, insulting, & hostile. I don't know how so many women live through so much physical AND emotional pain; may God bless their souls.
Sorry- Please forgive me. I didn't mean to digress. I always could talk the ears off a mule, but I'm much more of a talker (writer) now that I don't engage in any other meaningful conversations, except for those with my patient, precious Husband. Much respect & admiration, & much love & best wishes to you~ ❤
No shame girl! You can’t hold yourself to the same standard as someone who is healthy and able.
Everyone has bad days, Martina has physical pain & sometimes we have mental pain. She didn't say it but, gratitude is a big part of her day. Fill your life with things and people that make you happy. Martina made this video out of the strength she has from the beauty of her life. She made it because she loves us & her ducky and her stunkies;) & herself. Life is seriously too short to not enjoy it. Simone and Martina are a wonderful example of follow your dreams. They inspire us everyday. Sometimes I watch Open the Hsppy when I'm having a bad day. That Spudgy voice makes me laugh every time, the bows video is one of my favorite memories of all time. Build a ladder, care for yourself in a loving and kind way. Don't put yourself down and live in the things you can't do. Celebrate the things you can do. Love to our sweet couple who inspire us everyday!
Wow simon is really encouraging and husband material
Those that r suffering, STAY STRONG!!! Tell urself I got this, I'm gonna beat this shit! oh n u can listen to bts :D
DO YOU REALIZE HOW STRONG YOU ARE MARTINA?💗 YOU ARE SO INSPIRING YOU ARE A HERO TO ME. (I studied you disorder in school im a biology student in france and our teacher is a collagene specislist and she reaserches the many different Eds including yours and i remember she said it was a really really painful desease seeing you positive even when you are down even when you dont want to and sharing that with others is a miracle to me. I think you are a miracle martina and people like you make me feel proud of beeing human. I know you spoke about eds a few times already but im so grateful for this ladder video because it really shows what you go through and your mindset and im mindblown at how brave and cute you are eveb through the pain😭 💕💕💕💕) i wish you to be happy from the bottom of my heart
Ps: simon is the best
Simon is the perfect husband! You guys are just the best! ❤️❤️❤️
#Buildaladder 💖
have been watching u guys for a very long time and I remember how u guys used to say u didn't want to show us the less happy side of u guys but I'm so proud of u Martina! It's not easy but u're always giving us positivity :-) ❤️
This video must have been really hard for you to film but I'm so incredibly grateful that you did. I've suffered from mental illness for about 7 years now. It has consumed almost all my teenage years and I'm in my mid twenties now. Unfortunately I don't have anyone but myself to rely on, no love and my family don't support me anymore. It's tough when the people around you don't understand what you'e going through, can't relate and not respecting that recovery takes a long time(if it's even possible). I'll try and cherish the things I'm able to do more than the things I'm at the moment are not able to, even if the people around me don't think that's enough. What matters is that we all can at least get a bit of light into that darkness each day. So lets #buildaladder together and never give up together!
Much love to you!
FantasyTea Sending love to you because you deserve it 💙 i'm sorry you've had to go through the fight with mental illness alone, but I'm willing to be your friend if you ever need someone to turn to ^^
Facebook groups have been helpful and supportive! If you'd like, we could be Facebook friends and I can add you to the groups I'm in. 😊
We've got you xxx
We got you fam #YTubeFam
FantasyTea Hello, I am so sorry that you feel alone. I also suffer from mental illness. Just know that you are never ever alone. Remember, there are trillion of cells that are trying to keep you alive. lol 😂 If you ever try to hurt yourself, your body will be sad and try to stop you because it is a part of you and it loves you. Also, for anyone who doesn't understand, just walk away or smile, or laugh like a mad person. Hahaha When I'm super depressed sometimes I just start cry laughing which sounds so creepy and I end up frightening myself and laughing about it. Honestly, the strongest being you can count on will always be yourself. Get out of the house, pet random animals do random meet ups, and meet people. They don't have to be the one, or your best friends. It is just to let yourself know that there are people out there, besides your trillion tiny friends, that want you to be alive. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
How did these onions get in my bed? 😭😭😭😭
Ugh you're so amazing and really are such a role model. Love both of you so much
cassie middles I know right? It made my eyes water.
I almost never leave comments on videos, but this one moved me to do so. I've been suffering from depression and anxiety the last few months and there are days where I also feel so dark. Today was one of them. When I started watching this video I had already been lying in bed for hours and was contemplating staying there all day. But I'm following your ladders steps. I got up, made some coffee and I'm going to go take my dog for a walk. Thanks for sharing, I know it must be extremely difficult, but know that you're helping others who suffer too. ❤️
Ming Lim I know I'm a complete stranger but I feel really proud of you for doing that ☺. Keep pushing through!
You did so well!!! I'm proud, too. Your comment moved me.
Once depression takes hold it can be really hard to climb out of that hole. I hope you get better soon, if you are not seeking treatment already I strongly advise you to do so. If you can't afford treatment there are some self help books that might help you such as those by David D. Burns . It sounds like you are taking the right approach though, just take things one step at a time. Good Luck !
I'm happy and proud of you! You're doing a great job, keep pushing yourself as best you can. You have us in the comments as believers, and I'm sure your dog is just as supportive.
That's *amazing* I'm so happy for you :) I'm very familiar with those days, days where it's hard to get out of bed and even more difficult to leave the house. I'm very proud of you for fighting against those dark thoughts and proving to yourself, and to your depression, that you _can_ fight this! Fighting depression is a lot of small battles (getting out bed, making coffee, taking your dog for walk, etc), winning even just one of them is a _huge_ accomplishment when you're in that "dark pit." Let's both continue to add rungs to our ladders! :)
I have classical EDS. it's rough.
Honestly, I do my best to ignore it and not tell people and because I don't really have a support network I kind of have to? I work full time which is hard but I have to... I could write a huge essay on my experience but really the only thing I find super hard is being on a full bus. I've never found the courage to ask for a "disabled" seat because I look fine, even though my 15 min bus ride while standing is so physically draining.
But yeh. Idk if ignoring is the healthiest tactic but... 🙆♀️
There is an EDS reddit if you need some friendly ears! Hugs if you want them. reddit.com/r/ehlersdanlos/
Em Brains I have no idea how I missed this reply but I will check it out thanks!!!!
i wanted to comment before i watch the video but martina is our universal mom and it hurts to hear our mom is sad :( we love you more than anything martina and by just getting up in the morning we know you're stronger than anything!! :) stay positive
our mom! nah shes too young to be anyones mom shes a great life example and guide
Her mom had her when she was 10
Girl she's like 30.
As a 38 yr old dude shes more like a sister in law.
i know LOL its just like a phrase of affection for me
Martina, you are so amazing. An amazing, strong woman, and even though I may not understand completely the pain you are going through, I can feel your struggles... I had a knee surgery 2 years ago and is still not healing, so I also suffer of constant pain, restricted movement and so on. I really admire how you try to keep things as positive as you can, it fits you perfectly that positive attitude (/^▽^)/
I wish you nothing but the best, your fans love you and to me, personally, you are a great role model and inspiration! Lots and lots of love for you always ( ˘ ³˘)♡
Lindo Loto yes yes! Agreed on every level, Martina your nastys love you and we are family! No matter how many miles away!
Stay strong
Darling your such a strength..am house bound due to many health problems, alone with sever depression ..but I totally agree if at able too try to lift your spirit as it'll help your mind set, music is one big thing for me and doing my own nails it's were I can put my focus somewhere else to help with the pain and loneliness, take care sweetheart sending million loving hugs...🙏🏻💜😍