Blog

<h2>If there’s one thing I hope to achieve with this blog, it’s to create a space where people feel seen, heard, and less alone.</h2><p>Chronic illness, mental health struggles, or life’s challenges—we all have our own unique struggles, but we’re all in this together.</p><p>I aim to show that our unique experiences don’t have to hold us back. Instead, they can propel us forward, helping us live fuller, more authentic lives. We get one life, and making the most of it is up to us. So, let’s embrace our glitches, find joy in the little things, and live purposefully. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs of life and create a community that celebrates resilience and hope.</p><p>One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that you can’t navigate life’s glitches alone. Building a support network of friends, family, and even online communities has been a game-changer for me. My roommate in college was one of my biggest supporters. She didn’t just see my struggles; she stood by me through them, offering a helping hand or a kind word when I needed it most.</p><p>It’s not about finding people who understand every detail of your journey. It’s about surrounding yourself with those who care, who show up, and who remind you that you don’t have to face life alone. Whether it’s a late-night conversation, a shared laugh, or a shoulder to cry on, these connections are invaluable.</p><p>What are your glitches? <a data-mce-href="https://anniestrong.com/contact" href="https://anniestrong.com/contact" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Let me know via my contact page</a>. Let’s keep this conversation going—because no one should feel like they’re alone in this.</p>

A Community of Glitches

<h2>Living with a chronic illness is no small feat. It’s challenging, but it also teaches resilience and gratitude.&nbsp;</h2><p>Here are a few quotes and resources that have helped me stay grounded and hopeful:</p><blockquote><p><em>Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.</em><br><br>— Akshay Dubey</p></blockquote><blockquote><p><em>Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.</em><br><br>— A.A. Milne<br></p></blockquote><h3>Resources:</h3><p><a data-mce-href="https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020-05/Spoon%20theory%20by%20Christine%20Miserandino.pdf" href="https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020-05/Spoon%20theory%20by%20Christine%20Miserandino.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spoon Theory by Christine Miserandino</a>: This simple analogy helps explain what it’s like to live with limited energy due to chronic illness. (Google it—it’s a game-changer!)</p><p><a data-mce-href="https://chronicillnessbloggers.com/" href="https://chronicillnessbloggers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chronic Illness Bloggers Network</a>: A supportive community of bloggers sharing tips, personal stories, and resources for managing chronic conditions.</p><p><a data-mce-href="https://themighty.com/" href="https://themighty.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Mighty</a>: An online platform with articles and personal stories about living with chronic illness, mental health, and more.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Resources for Living Well with Chronic Illness

<h2>A bad test grade? A frustrating doctor’s visit? A funny story about spilling coffee all over myself? All glitches. Life moves forward, and so do we.&nbsp;</h2><p>These moments aren’t failures; they’re lessons and opportunities to laugh at ourselves. They’re also simple reminders to slow down and breathe.</p><p>I’ve diagnosed myself with “glitch syndrome,” which basically means I’m a hot mess. But hey, aren’t we all? I’ve realized that life’s imperfections make it stronger and more enjoyable. They push us to grow and shape us into the people we’re meant to be. Why not embrace them?</p><p>Some days, I wake up feeling great. Those days, I seize the day by going outside, spending time with loved ones, and doing things that make me happy. On other days, I wake up feeling less than stellar. On those days, I find joy in smaller moments: a good cup of coffee, a cozy blanket, or my favorite movie. Finding joy in the little things makes even the most challenging days manageable.</p>

Finding Joy in the Little Things

<h2>Hi, it’s me, Annie Reynolds, the glitch.</h2><p>That might sound strange, but let me explain. “The glitch” has become my way of describing myself after living with chronic illnesses and facing life’s many curveballs. It’s a term I’ve embraced—a way to bring light and laughter to situations that might otherwise feel heavy.</p><p>When things go awry, whether it’s a health scare, a frustrating day, or a silly mishap, I often say, “It’s okay. You know I’m the glitch.” It’s a phrase that helps me keep perspective and reminds me (and others) not to take life too seriously.</p><p>The idea of a glitch isn’t inherently bad; it’s just a little hiccup, a moment that didn’t go according to plan. And let’s be honest, who really is living a “normal” life anyway? We all have our glitches, our quirks, and our unique struggles. This blog is where I’ll share mine, along with insights and tips for navigating life with chronic illness. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that stressing over the uncontrollable won’t do us any good.</p><p>Life’s glitches don’t define us—how we respond to them does.</p>

Glitch Syndrome - Embracing Life's Unexpected Turns

Annie Strong

My awesome life thriving through the everyday struggles of chronic autoimmune diseases. It will get better; I found my way. Maybe I can help you find yours?