Introduction, hopes for joining and moving forward

Hello everyone. My name is Kat, I am 33 and I am fueled by sarcasm and finding humor in every aspect of my life. I am from California and currently reside in Minnesota. I am confused how penguins don't frolic in the wild here during Winter. I am a mostly single parent to a very ambitious 5 year old. I have been divorced for nearly two years and in that time I have learned a lot about myself and my capabilities.

This year has been absolutely life-changing for me. I found out that I was misdiagnosed with Fibromyalgia three years ago, and all the medication I had reactions and side effects to was for nothing. My proper diagnosis turned out to be RRMS. I have had 3 MRI's, multiple blood tests, an EMG on my legs and left arm, a chest X-ray and a spinal tap so far this year. I have an evoked potentials EEG coming up the end of this month as well as more blood work. I found out I do not qualify for a new medication for MS and will need to start 3x/week self-injections later this month. I am currently on FMLA leave from work and realistically due to my career requirements I do not see myself capable of going back. My hands and arms as well as the left side of my body from shoulder to hip went numb 5 months ago, and has not gotten better.

I study Psychology and if I can figure out a job that will fund my cost of living as well as education, I can finish my degree and pursue this new career. Only 14 classes to go! I already have an A.S. in Web Design and Media but I do not use it.

My life is full of being grateful for the little things. Cuddles from my son, the flowers that bloom in my garden, being able to clean the house on good days. This year my son and I were able to travel home to California and he was able to meet most of his family for the first time. We stopped at State and Federal parks along the way there and back. I hope to one day be able to live near family again.

I hope to find more socialization on steemit. I have a lot of days where I do not leave the house unless I have to. My body is stiff even with exercise, and I lack energy to do most of the things people often take for granted. I am a workaholic and I am not used to this new life. It would be nice to make money in the long run, but I would be happy just connecting with individuals and learning what others have to say.

I renovate my rental in my spare time and as my body allows. Its soothing for me to keep busy and moving in this way. I've learned to hang drywall, tape, mud and paint. I also rewired my first outlets this year, which was a lot easier than I thought.

We have three dogs, a cat and a pig. The last two belong to my landlords. I have my hands full even being out of work, but I like our little life so far and I look forward to what next year brings. I have my fingers crossed for being able to move home. Thank you for reading my story, and I look forward to speaking with some of you and reading what you have to post.