Doing solo female vanlife while learning to cope w/ chronic illness on the road
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- Опубліковано 15 вер 2024
- In this video I start off on a solo car camping advanture with big plans for the next 24 hours, that quickly go south, bringing me into the topic of how I've been coping (or not coping - you be the judge) with my autoimmune conditions and chronic illnesses on the road. I'll share with you some of the strategies I've been using to try and keep from giving up on my adventures and car camping trips.
Since tomorrow is not guaranteed and there is so much uncertainty around the future for me right now, I refuse to totally stop adventuring or getting out in nature, so it's just a matter of finding the right balance and tools to keep doing so safely.
I'm sharing what I've learned so far in the hopes that it helps others to feel not so alone, and to maybe come up with strategies that help them (or you)! 💚
If you have ant tips to share, please leave them in the comments below. See you soon!
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• Ghost hunting in a Flo...
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My setup details
**As an Amazon Associate, I do earn a small commission for any qualifying purchases made using the links below, but this is at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend the items I personally use and love. Using these links is a great way to support my channel and ensure that I can continue to deliver quality future content, so thank you in advance for your support - I truly appreciate it!
Product Links for Indoor & Outdoor Setup/Items Used:
Jackery 240 Power Station:
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Jackery 1000 Power Station:
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new tri-fold full size mattress:
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puzzle mat "wood" flooring
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salt lamp string lights
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Shower bag:
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Luci Light inflatable solar lantern:
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Lunatec pressurized water bottle:
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macrame fruit hammock/bag:
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Koonie 8" blades rechargeable USB fan with clamp:
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cup holder inverter:
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bamboo breakfast tray:
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Hot Logic Mini:
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Dash Mini Maker Electric Griddle:
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low wattage (300W) BalBali electric kettle:
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Aeropress coffee maker:
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handheld battery powered milk frother:
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mesh window screens:
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magnetic window curtains:
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Insulated cooler bag:
amzn.to/38FK6IG
ergonomic gel memory foam seat cushion:
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USB LED light bulb:
amzn.to/3yVudZc
stained glass "rainbow" decals:
- phases of the moon:
amzn.to/3WBaxm9
- mandalas:
amzn.to/3hJXlfF
magic mesh screen doors:
amzn.to/41OXq3x
mosquito netting:
amzn.to/44aPhrU
Luci solar string lights:
amzn.to/46mPF6X
Mosaic solar lantern:
amzn.to/3LDJpjb
large storage hamper:
amzn.to/3OVtO0S
storage bins with bamboo lids:
amzn.to/3oCcfbC
chargeable hang led color change light
amzn.to/41a5IUm
In this video I start off on a solo car camping advanture with big plans for the next 24 hours, that quickly go south, bringing me into the topic of how I've been coping (or not coping - you be the judge) with my autoimmune conditions and chronic illnesses on the road. I'll share with you some of the strategies I've been using to try and keep from giving up on my adventures and car camping trips.
Since tomorrow is not guaranteed and there is so much uncertainty around the future for me right now, I refuse to totally stop adventuring or getting out in nature, so it's just a matter of finding the right balance and tools to keep doing so safely.
I'm sharing what I've learned so far in the hopes that it helps others to feel not so alone, and to maybe come up with strategies that help them (or you)! 💚
If you have ant tips to share, please leave them in the comments below. See you soon!
====
ua-cam.com/video/II2c0H2KGqg/v-deo.htmlsi=h8n_aylgGgkoI-6f
====
My setup details
**As an Amazon Associate, I do earn a small commission for any qualifying purchases made using the links below, but this is at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend the items I personally use and love. Using these links is a great way to support my channel and ensure that I can continue to deliver quality future content, so thank you in advance for your support - I truly appreciate it!
Product Links for Indoor & Outdoor Setup/Items Used:
Jackery 240 Power Station:
amzn.to/3wIiHgX
Jackery 1000 Power Station:
amzn.to/3lzmMyP
new tri-fold full size mattress:
amzn.to/44PkcLe
puzzle mat "wood" flooring
amzn.to/4bpzNU4
salt lamp string lights
amzn.to/44Oi8Tn
Shower bag:
amzn.to/39LSDtM
Luci Light inflatable solar lantern:
amzn.to/3YXvJ6U
Lunatec pressurized water bottle:
amzn.to/3KBgXyX
macrame fruit hammock/bag:
amzn.to/3lOlwLT
Koonie 8" blades rechargeable USB fan with clamp:
amzn.to/3lHxBCl
cup holder inverter:
amzn.to/41bpluz
bamboo breakfast tray:
amzn.to/3GiXM8Q
Hot Logic Mini:
amzn.to/3YD1YbV
Dash Mini Maker Electric Griddle:
amzn.to/413y6qF
low wattage (300W) BalBali electric kettle:
amzn.to/3YD96EV
Aeropress coffee maker:
amzn.to/3lLFKG5
handheld battery powered milk frother:
amzn.to/3kat7DV
mesh window screens:
amzn.to/3GiXSxe
magnetic window curtains:
amzn.to/3G8TqAW
Insulated cooler bag:
amzn.to/38FK6IG
ergonomic gel memory foam seat cushion:
amzn.to/3wBLNjg
USB LED light bulb:
amzn.to/3yVudZc
stained glass "rainbow" decals:
- phases of the moon:
amzn.to/3WBaxm9
- mandalas:
amzn.to/3hJXlfF
magic mesh screen doors:
amzn.to/41OXq3x
mosquito netting:
amzn.to/44aPhrU
Luci solar string lights:
amzn.to/46mPF6X
Mosaic solar lantern:
amzn.to/3LDJpjb
large storage hamper:
amzn.to/3OVtO0S
storage bins with bamboo lids:
amzn.to/3oCcfbC
chargeable hang led color change light
amzn.to/41a5IUm
Being chronically ill is AWFUL...Plain and simple. Having a (or multiple) Chronic Illness that is INVISIBLE definitely has additional challenges. The worst, in my opinion, is when people don't BELIEVE you. Because you don't "look" sick, people don't think you can possibly be as bad as you say. Over the past 20+ years, I have heard this from medical providers, friends, and family. You would think it wouldn't bother me after all this time, but it still does. It is so hurtful EVERY time it happens. When you constantly have to deal with your own body betraying you, feeling like you are being betrayed by people in your life who are supposed to care for you is another dagger to the heart.
You have given A LOT of GREAT advice in this video. I'm sure you are helping A LOT of people. And, THANK YOU for bringing awareness to the issue. Best wishes and sincere prayers being sent your way.❤️
As always, so we'll explained and stated Ana, that's a perfect description. I mean I don't want to look so awful everyone can tell how badly I feel, but its definitely frustrating knowing you look "fine" when you are far from it!
Thank you! (And hugs back to you for all you have to deal with!)
I've had an autoimmune disease for 40 years. Some days, I can barely make myself go. I keep pushing though. Sometimes I do something, ride 3 or 4 hrs ( ex ), then it takes a week for me to get over it. Stress, diet, lack of sleep, exceeding your limits, weather, all affect you
Yes, they can have such an influence on you, and things change so much from one day to the next!! Hugs!
Best wishes Heather, I'm sure you'll be in good hands when you get to your anticipated medical appointment. I've been dealing with autoimmune issues for 20 plus years now and hit and miss medical treatment. Studying from many, many, many books on nutrition, exercise and fitness as well as mental health have helped me when I have flare ups of inflammation. I am helping my 40 year old daughter to understand the start of her journey, and she doesn't yet, but one day she will. As you will. I'm glad you're sharing your journey, because when I started I felt totally alone and misunderstood. ✌💟
Sending love to both you and your daughter. Thank you!!
Thank you Heather. I think these discussions are beneficial to people in many circumstances. Take care ❤
Thank you, I appreciate that!!
Oh girl, I had to stop the video and just comment on how you were touching my heart with this video. I have been struggling lately too. I struggle with letting myself be headstrong and do what I used to easily do. Every once in a while I push myself just a little bit too much, and my body will go into a full and utter breakdown later. Just to teach my mind that my body can and will revolt against it. I was feeling pretty good last week, so I decided to take the electric lawn mower and do some yard work. It was sunny and hot of course, this being Florida. I made sure I was hydrated and went out for maybe an hour or so and quit. Well that night it started with a headache, progressed to a body ache, escalated to a really terrible ache in the center of my back. I then slept for 12 hours.After some medication was taken. I woke up the next day extremely emotional and unable to make a couple of routine phone calls, and kinda freaking out because I had an emergency phone appointment with my doctor and I couldn’t set it up on my own phone. My sister ended up getting the phone appointment on for me, I talked to the doctor and I felt better soon after. But it scared me that I fell apart so easily when I’ve always been the “strong” one. I am feeling much better now, but it was a pretty rough week. I looked forward to your videos , as well as a few other UA-cam channels that I follow, to keep me relaxed and resting. So, back to your video now. ❤
You describe the physical and emotional roller coaster so well! Thank you for sharing, and for the love. 💕💕💕
Hugs!
Please take care of yourself! Wait for the winter!
💚
Helps👍Thank you for sharing ✌🏽💖🤟🏽✨️🧚♂️
Thank you for watching! I'm glad it was helpful!
I have Hashimoto's with three nodules at a level 4 where a 5 is cancer. However that is not my biggest problem. I developed mal de debarquement syndrome the last 6 years as a result of a plane ride at night. This means I developed a cerebellum neurological issue which makes me chronically dizzy 24/7. There is no cure. I also have high cholesterol which does no make sense since I only eat plant based foods. Even with all of this, I still work full time as a teacher. It is not easy nor is it fun anymore. Everything makes me tired and has literally taken my former life away from me. However, I see you so focused on triggers and symptoms that your mind cannot think of anything else but illness. If you can get your mind away from the conditions, perhaps some of the symptoms and illnesses will be less of an issue. Take it from a person who is chronically swaying, bobbing in one's brain. It is not going to be easy.
Heather you spoke the story of my life as an autoimmune (Lupus) warrior. I pray you have easier days and sending you a big hug. Get used to hearing “but you don’t look sick.” It never gets old . If they only knew. Anyway best of health and wellness to you . 🥰
Sending love & strength to you as well!! Thank you! 💚💚
I'm praying for you. I'm a nomad who travels full-time with my Hubby & Chihuahua in a Dodge Grand Caravan. I was diagnosed in March with Congested Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure and Diabetes. I've been dealing with craziness as you have. Changes in diet, physical activity and emotional stress. My Hubby wants to quit vanlife because of my health. I do not want to quit! We were in Quartzsite in the extreme heat. Our van broke down so we couldn't travel. Heat hugely effects me too. We're now in Flagstaff, AZ and I have a great Cordiologist and Primary Dr. The struggles are real. I will keep you in my daily thoughts because physically and mentally what we're dealing with is scary. Stay safe girl, you're amazing!!
I totally understand your not wanting to quit! Thank you, and thanks for watching. I'm sorry you've been dealing with so much!
Aren't those cyber trucks so ugly? Lol. Heather, never feel like you are defeated or you've given up when you have to cut trips short. You have to look after yourself and protect yourself. That's okay. And this heat and humidity, wow, its rough on people that aren't having health issues, so I can't imagine how it is for people who do suffer from them. I was just diagnosed with high blood pressure, and I'm having to learn to take medication twice a day now and I can tell you, it's rough trying to get used to that, and it sucks. Lol. You should get a placard. You deserve it, and a doctor can give you one for a certain amount of time. Just don't be hard on yourself and don't allow others to do it either. Block them. Have a great week.❤❤❤
I was actually considering asking for a temporary placard at my upcoming appointment, and explaining to them how it would be helpful on bad days. I think I will! Thank you!! Sorry to hear of your blood pressure issues. Hopefully you're able to get into a routine and get it managed soon! 💚
Praying Mayo helps you my Friend 🙏❤️ Stay Strong and Positive ❤
@@Kimbers58 thank you so much my friend!!
Prayers continue I have fibromialgia too. I know what it's like especially with the heat. Hope mayo can help. Hugs
Thank you so much, hugs to you too!
really appreciate your channel and this video. I am a 45 year old woman looking into this lifestyle out of necessity, however my chronic issues are whats preventing me so far. I have fibro, CFS, to name a few. However I also now have severe arthritis so until I can get that under control I won't be able to live this way. I wouldnt be able to change a tire or do the bare maintenance on a vehicle. but I will keep watching your videos for inspiration for when my time comes! 💘 😻
So sorry to hear of your struggles. The more I talk to people, and the more research I do, it seems like our 40s are when these things like to show themselves & really flare up 🥺
I can relate to the fibro aspect, but I know CFS is no joke all on its own without the pain. Here's hoping we both find successful answers and treatment plans so we can get to what we really want to be doing 💕💕
@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures thank you 😊 🙏 💓
Hi Heather. After watching your videos since you've started FB, I feel like I know you. Seeing the raw emotion and the hurt and disappointment in your eyes the first half of the video brought me to tears. Please be kind to yourself. Heat is a killer and sleep is so important. Dont be so hard on yourself. Dont push yourself so hard. Im prayi 15:53 ng for you to get more answers so you can hopefully be on your way to some kind of recovery plan. Everything you said was 100% spot on for everyone, but especially for someone fighting auto-immune disorders. Your health is always #1 priority above all else. I use the electrolyte drops, no flavor, you can add it to anything you're drinking. I like Liquid IV, I have to try LMNT. Take care of yourself please!
Thank you my friend! I really am trying not to push myself, but also not to completely become a full time couch potato, so I need to somehow find the right balance!
Hi Heather, I was so excited when you walked two miles (wasn't happy at the time you didn't take that short cut you showed us, to be totally honest 😂) and now I am so sorry to hear that you got so sick the next day and had to return home! So sorry 🥺. I was looking at comments and I can't believe they havent offered you a temporary handicap plate yet. Omg Heather, please get one. Sending up tons of prayers this gets resolved soon! 🙏
That shortcut was sooo tempting, trust me lol!! But the orchids were at almost the halfway point, so there was no way to avoid the "long way" ... sigh! It was totally worth it though!!
Stinks that the heat couldn't at least cut me a little slack with a breeze under the shade darn it!!
Hey Heather, I'm right there with you. I don't have same conditions as you, but I do have some autoimmune conditions. However I have some of the same results. I can't do what I could do even last summer, summer before, etc., etc. Stress and anxiety, heat, certain foods (of course all my faves are on the "don't eat" list) lack of sleep, etc. I keep a cane with me wherever I am just to be sure I can have some stability as I'm never sure how strong or weak I'll be from 1 minute to next. I can be an energizer bunny at 1 am or hardly able to get off sofa just 15 min. after arising and 6 hours of sleep (A GOOD night for me). I've given up on diagnoses, I just try to manage myself. I'm much older than you so many of my symptoms are explained away by age. As for your outfit, I did the same. Ordered all loose fitting swing dresses and going braless when I'm home. I think your health struggles are worse and at such a young age. I hope you find some results after this next Mayo clinic appt. so you can lead a more normal life. Praying for you, Heather!
Also my Neuro ordered a brain MRI which came back with 2 abnormal results. Not life threatening or dramatic, but something to follow up on. Especially in light of derm, eye, ortho, pull ability findings. Anyone who has all those specialists as definitely got something out of whack!
That sounds so similar to me with the abnormal brain and cspine MRIs along with everything else. Sending hugs and love right back to you! Thank you!!
As always, you provide so much good info. I share many of the things you are experiencing and will not recite them here. The hardest thing for me was finally figuring out my new limitations and then getting over the looks from others who just could not understand what I was going through (and letting me know I was exaggerating or malingering). Just ignoring them was the hardest thing without feeling guilt.
Keep up the good fight. More info will be coming soon for you, even if not total or instant resolution!
Thank you so much friend! The closer my appt gets, the more nervous I get now lol. Seems like I've been waiting forever & now I don't feel ready 😆
Oh I have to go to Mayo too.
I'm nervous but ready! Feels like I've been waiting forever, but now that it's getting closer, I'm getting more anxious lol!
Good luck and good vibes to you for yours!
@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures Thank you I appreciate it ❤️ They've cared for me all my life and I recently went to the FL location for the first time where they finally did the amputation I've needed since I was a kid. It went well and I'm forever grateful to the Mayo. This is just another series of checkups from the procedures we did (used new tech and stuff) and then I might be free-ish for a while after a life of chronic illness/disability (scary thought lol) so I hope you find the same relief and soon.
Is there room in your van for a standing portable AC unit? They may draw a lot of battery from your power supply, but if you are at a campsite with power hook ups, you could probably have the exhaust tube out the window and create something using foam to be able to roll the window down and have it be covered and just have a hole opening for the AC exhaust. I found one on Amazon for about $160 and I am planning to use it for a camping trip that I am going to be sleeping in a tent.
Oh I hope that works for you! I would love to try the portable ecoflow one or even the zero breeze eventually!
It’s so frustrating!! I do not trust doctors anymore, I realize how little some of them know.
I totally understand why you feel that way!! (It is extremely frustrating not to know whether you can trust what you're being told!)
I drink vitamin water for electrolytes :) I have a half-paralyzed stomach and most people do not believe me and that included a new doctor I saw until I had a test done and then he believed me finally :) I do take a med to make the bad side of my stomach work, but it could cause Parkinson's, so I take it rarely. I could have it fixed but it would be at the only hospital that deals with diseases of the stomach, but I would have to be dying first and that sucks!!!!!!! Otherwise, they will not fix it :(
It's so frustrating when you can tell a doctor doesn't believe you or thinks you're exaggerating! 💕
@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures very true...hugs
A lot of what u talk about I going through daily
I'm so sorry to hear that. It's tough. Hoping things get better for both of us soon!
One of the most touching videos I have ever watched. You are an amazing human being and I am so grateful that I found your channel. It means so much to know that you’re not going crazy, or you aren’t imagining things, or you’re not a hypochondriac, and that you are not alone. It is so rare to find a person who can relate to what you’ve been through or are going through. I have not found very many people who can even comprehend what you’re going through, let alone relate to it. But it seems that we do tend to find each other, eventually. That’s a true blessing. 💚💙🩵
Thank you so much, I appreciate that. I didn't realize how much it had gotten to me until I saw my neurologist and she told "look, you need to know I believe you, you're not crazy, you're not making anything up or causing this...you're just a little more complicated to figure out than most cases..." and I burst into tears b/c it was so nice to hear that from a doctor!