Before anything else, I want to thank every one of you for your continued support, love and positive words that have really meant more than you could ever imagine.
This is a post I’ve been contemplating writing for a while. As my blog has really began to develop and grow, I thought it seemed appropriate to share with all of my followers, supporters and readers something you may not know.
My parents always taught me that I should, no matter what, be nice to everyone I meet because I never know what they’re going through. Now, don’t get me wrong, I have my flaws and just like everyone else, I have been rude at times. But that one lesson (out of many) that my parents taught me has really stuck to me, especially now.
About a year ago, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia? What is that? Yeah, I asked myself the same question. I’m still asking myself. This past year has been one of the craziest, most emotional and toughest years I have ever had. From being in and out of doctors to frequently feeling sick, it has been a battle for me. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder where you feel widespread muscle pain, constant fatigue and so much more. As a 20-year-old college student, it’s been hard for me, especially since I’m always smiling and lively so no one can really believe I’m suffering from anything at all. But there’s one thing I always keep in the back of my mind. He would not have brought this upon me if He knew that I would not be able to handle it.
There are days where I feel hopeless or sad. There are days where I just want to lie in bed and sleep. But, from the bottom of my heart, I wanted to take this time to thank you. From the beautiful comments on Instagram, my blog and the wonderful and sweet words many of you have told me, thank you. For those who are reading this right now, thank you. You have inspired me and have given me more strength than I could ever imagine. I love you guys, so much!
I’m still a 20-year-old girl. I love fashion. I love lipstick and pink and tulle and sequins. I love to work and keep busy by doing fun activities and blogging (my absolute favorite activity). I live for my three dogs, my family and friends. I may have a certain illness, but that illness has not defined who I am. No matter what obstacles you may come across, always remember… “You were given this life because you’re strong enough to live it.“
I hope I’ve inspired you in the ways that you’ve inspired me. We only get this one life, so might as well make the best of it, right?
What’s your story? What are you living for?
The #TFD Family
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You are so strong and beautiful. Your beautiful radiance shines through your smile and words! Thank you for being so open and sharing such an amazing personal post. Continue blogging because you are phenomenal! XOXO
I love you so so so much. 🙂
You are so strong, and so beautiful girly! Thank you for sharing your story, and being so brave! Major internet hugs being sent your way! And I am totally here if you ever want to talk, or need a pinterest quote pick me up 😉
xo Kylie
http://www.dressinsparkles.com
Thank you, Kylie. That seriously means the world to me to know that people really care to hear my story. I’m accepting those internet hugs! Every single one of them! XO. Thank you so much and yes… email me a pinterest pick me up whenever you feel you want to! I LOVE quotes! 🙂 info@laurenashleypatao.com
YOU ARE AMAZING. Seriously Lauren, you are such a beautiful and strong soul, in so many ways. I would never guess by looking at your images and witnessing your positive spirit that you are struggling in this way! I am so proud of the person you are and so happy to call you my friend. I love you to the moon and back, you are going to go so SO far.
This just made me cry. I love you so much and am so blessed that something as simple as social media brought us together. Love you forever and ever my bestie! <3 YOU are beautiful and amazing and I'm so blessed to know you!