Posts by: Eleanor Bird

Eleanor Bird

September 28, 2020September 24, 2020

PH Often Prevents Me From Getting Quality Sleep

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

Everyone feels the effects of a bad night’s sleep. But for those with chronic illness, sleepless nights can be debilitating. Since being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH), I have ... Read more

August 24, 2020August 20, 2020

Living Alone With a Chronic Illness

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

Three years ago when I was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension at age 22, I never would have predicted I’d one day want to live alone. At the time, I ... Read more

August 10, 2020August 4, 2020

Why I Felt Down After Receiving Positive Test Results

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

When going to the hospital for tests, one always hopes and prays for the best-case scenario. Last week, I had a number of tests and was lucky enough to ... Read more

July 27, 2020July 23, 2020

Tackling Anxiety Over Doctors’ Appointments

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

As I write this, I’m due for a hospital visit tomorrow for a day of tests. And I have some pretty major pre-appointment anxiety. I haven’t had a face-to-face ... Read more

July 20, 2020July 16, 2020

Counting My Steps Saved My Mental Health

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

Lots of people count their steps using a Fitbit device or their phone, but for me it has been a total lifeline. Being less active during lockdown made me ... Read more

July 6, 2020July 2, 2020

It’s Not ‘Back to Normal’ for Those With Chronic Illnesses

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

The world is re-opening. People are returning to bars, restaurants, and shops. They’re reuniting with loved ones and friends. I’m terrified. I’ve been locked down for over three months, ... Read more

June 29, 2020June 25, 2020

I’m Not ‘Lazy,’ I’m Sick

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

One of the hardest parts of having chronic health problems is the guilt. Many people struggling with complex conditions are branded “lazy.” And sometimes we even brand ourselves. Before ... Read more

June 22, 2020June 18, 2020

It’s Important to Be Your Own Health Advocate

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

Before I got sick I thought doctors knew everything. I thought doctors would know exactly what to do if I was ever unwell, and that I could just mindlessly ... Read more

June 15, 2020June 11, 2020

How COVID-19 Is Shining a Light on Ableism

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

Society doesn’t make it easy for people with disabilities and health conditions, including in the workplace. Historically, people with disabilities have struggled to hold down jobs. People with pulmonary ... Read more

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