I was diagnosed in 1990’s with Interstitial Cystitis (“IC”), now called “Painful Bladder Syndrome.”

I honestly didn’t know what to do?  So I was referred to the Corewell Health Women’s Pelvic Center. They changed my life! Through them, I learned about the mind, body and soul connection.

Sadly, my daughter also has Interstitial Cystitis and another female relative may possibly have it due to her symptoms. IC is gender-based, but mostly women are afflicted with it.

With three women in my family suffering from this debilitating, life-changing health condition, it is a struggle because some people do not believe in IC’s existence! Often we are unable to attend events or get-togethers, thus loneliness and other sad emotions kick in.

It’s even gotten to the point where sometimes friends and others don’t invite us to functions, as it seems that pain patient are not believed. It’s sad and we try our best to smile and function as “healthy people.” Yet, as I said, “invisible illnesses” are not understood.

We’re lucky to able to go to Corewell Health for the latest treatments and advice! Women from over 90 countries come to Corewell for their expertise and true humanitarian care!

However, with IC, there is no cure, only treatments that help with symptoms and, while that’s a blessing, sometimes they don’t work due to each patient having different biology. That can cause loneliness and sadness as well!

One more thing that I would like to share – Jill Osborne in California created “Interstitial Cystitis (I.C.) Network.

Jill is an angel and communicates with doctors and researchers all over the USA. She hosts a podcast on YouTube and, along with other issues with IC, talks about the different emotions those of us with IC deal with. Jill’s brilliant!