Hi Limbogirl.
It may help to read thingd by someone you admire who has lived unexpected chronic illness or injury. Consider Christopher Reeve, Michael J. Fox, or others.
I would highly recommend you read about Morris Goodman : The Miracle Man.
Morris Goodman
(his reaction to his accident has really transforemd his life because he decided to shape his attitude in positive directions)
Here are 5 quick ideas (you can also visit my website for positive thoughts)
1)
Let go of expectations. Health issues change your life yet, you always have choices about how you will react to your new conditions. You can decide to focus on what you can do and discover what is feasible.
(2)
Focus on supportive relationships. You will find some people feel awkward or don't know what to say around you. Maybe they no longer sense they have things in common with you. Don't worry about them. People who care about you for who you are see through the illness.
(3)
Remind yourself about joy in your blessings. No matter what your apparent predicament, other people are worse off and you could be too! Think about what you can do to uplift your spirits and bring more joy into your life.
(4)
Use talents and skills you can. . If you're no longer able to work as you once did because of your illness, you may feel like your skills are going to waste. Consider your health actually offers opportunities to discover hidden talents you didn't know you had. Take some time to discover yourself. Finding things you can do will boost your esteem and energy level.
(5)
Communicate with other people who have had similar health issues. You encourage yourself as you encourage others. You know how hard it can be to endure illness and to sense nobody understands. Share what its like to feel vulnerable and prove to people and yourself you can survive and teach people to get something meaningful out of everything.