Status Update – Temporary Hiatus
It has been a while since I posted my last post here on freelance writing. Unfortunately writing and blogging is the furthest thing on my mind right now because I’m battling some serious health issues. At this stage I don’t even know what is wrong with me but after doing some blood tests and not finding the cause my doctor has recommended I wait for a couple of weeks and see whether my health improves.
Upon doing some of my own research online I have found a couple of possible causes. One thing is for sure. I do battle a nasty virus that has knocked me flat off my shoes. I have spent the last 10 days in bed pretty much all day. I have no energy at all and an awful lot of pain. I feel nauseous and lethargic and my belief is that I might have CFS. At least the symptoms are all pointing that way, but having said this, many symptoms for many viruses are actually related to each other, so I can’t really be sure unless it is confirmed by a doctor.
In the meantime I have put my business on standby as I can simply not function like this with a full workload.
I also won’t be blogging here until I start to feel better again.
The only thing I can do is eat healthy, rest, sleep and take nutritional supplements in the hopes that this is “only” a temporary illness and not long term.
One thing is for sure, my life has yet again changed because I have come to realize that one cannot work 14 hour days for 18 months straight without expecting to get sick while lacking exercise and good nutrition. I have worked myself to the bone and the realization of this has hit me quite hard to be honest.
Such is the life of many online marketers, because several of my good online friends are also battling some serious health issues due to excessive workload.
Things will change for me and the change has already started to happen because I’m forced to do nothing right now.
In the meantime, don’t forget me totally 
and stay safe and healthy yourself.
Monika
About the Author: I'm a passionate freelance writer and problogger. To further build my business I'm also in the process of building my own niche empire which pays me residual income.
Grizzly | Oct 15, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
I really hope a little R&R will get you back on your feet and that this is not serious. I’ll be thinking of you and wish you a speedy recovery. Hopefully a break will do you a world of good. Please keep us informed when you can.
lissie | Oct 15, 2008 | Reply
Monika, thats terrible I’m so sorry. Please do yourself a favour and get a 2nd opinion, I notice as I get older it seems that GPs seem to think you should just put up with stuff – more I suspect that if I was a man – its an unacceptable attitude from them. If you are too ill to get out of bed, considering your normal energy levels there really is something wrong: they are just havent done the right test yet. Keep safe Lis
Wendi Kelly-Life's Little Inspirations | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
I won’t forget about you. Stop by and visit when you get the change. You will stay in the reader so I’ll always know when you pop up!
Take care of yourself and rest.
TDMV | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Working 14 hrs a day 18 months straight isn’t healthy but I can’t comment on that because I do the same thing as you. And there is a price to pay unfortunately. I wish you all the best, and hope to see you soon back here again (but hopefuly in a more relaxed tempo)
Ed | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Geeezzzzzz… I barely rose from my grave and you’re going. Haha!
Have a good break, recharge only to go further when you’re back.
Carla | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
I am so very sorry to hear of this. Take care of yourself, rest and eat right – you know the drill. I really hope you will have a speedy recovery.
Writer Dad | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
I’ll never forget you totally. I’ll be here when you return. I’ll think good thoughts.
Be well.
Lawrence Miller | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
You are sicker than you let on to me. You really sound down and out in your blog post. Gee, I hope, like someone else said, you will get a second and maybe more opinions on what is going on with your body. Make sure you check with an internist regarding your current health issues. You are a treasure we cannot lightly go without for long.
Now that I know how sick you feel,I can see that you must have been follow my advice about resting long before I gave it.
We are all pulling for you and praying for you.
Lawrence
macnabclan | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
This life style is not healthy if you don’t balance it right.
I just came from the doctor just this morning because of how tired I am and my blood sugar counts are so low. He told me that the gain of 30 pounds and no activity due to my internet business is the reason I have no energy.
I have to make a quick change and balance this business, I see that you are realizing that too. I wish you the best and do take care of yourself.
Dan.
Sara | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
This post pulled me out of my normal work coma to comment. I hope you get better soon, I know all too well how being sick sucks.
Working 14 hours a day and neglecting your health catches up with you sooner or later. I was in that same situation at 32 when after 10 years of 70 hour work weeks. I found myself in the ER for the third time in a week curled up in a fetal position crying with a migraine, while having the doctor tell me I was also having a stroke.
Eight years later now, that night has changed my life a lot. I changed careers, my eating habits, I exercise, “Work to live” not “Live to Work”… I now live an almost complete stress free life. I have no choice, I still have migraines that only scheduled narcotics will stop. I’m four times more likely to have another major stroke, due to the migraines.
Sounds kind of harsh, but my advice is change your life around now. Don’t let work and stress change it for you. Get better soon!
Cath Lawson | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – I was going to email you – I though you were just up to your eyeballs working. I hope you’re feeling better soon – I don’t know CFS is – I’m going to Google it now.
Let me know if you need anything doing.
Cath xxx
Vered - MomGrind | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
I hope you get better soon. I won’t forget you – you’re in my feed reader.
zania | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
I won’t forget about you either. I was wondering if all was okay. And CFS does look like a likely suspect, but I am not a medic, so I don’t know…
Just take it easy, try not to stress, and yes, please get a second opinion.
Take care
Zania
Davina | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika. You are psychic. I was just thinking about you yesterday because I hadn’t seen anything from you in a while. I thought you were busy, busy, busy.
I hope you are better soon. FYI, stress can be a bugger. At my last job, while I was on a strict gluten-free diet my symptoms were still about 10% there. Now, that I’m not working in a normal workplace (I’m still under stress, but at my own speed) the things that used to upset my digestion don’t.
Please take care of yourself. Besides being a life coach, I am a registered holistic nutritionist. Let me know if I can help in any way.
Mel | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika,
I also freelance (and probably do similar hours so maybe this is a timely hint like so many of your blog posts are!)
I love your blog and I will really miss reading it, but I am subscribed so I will look forward to seeing more when you’re ready to write again.
Take care of yourself, ease up on things and I hope you will be well and healthy soon. I battled some health issues a few years ago and I support what quite a few people have said here – if you aren’t happy get a second opinion!
I wish you all the best,
Mel
Kevin Hassett | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Sorry to hear you are not well. Please get some rest and relaxation and we will all still be here whenever you feel up to returning. Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery, I know you will come out of this better and stronger than ever!
- Kevin
Tumblemoose | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Take good care and if there’s anything folks can do to help please let us know.
George
Friar | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Oh Geez.
So sorry to hear you’ve been sick.
Take care of yourself, eh?
Don’t worry about us. We’ll be right here when you’re ready to come back.
Leanne Magraith | Forever Change | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika
I have been pretty quiet on the blogging front over the last 5-6 weeks as I had one virus followed by another one about a week later. I am definitely on the mend though.
I am so sorry to hear that you are not well. I for one will certainly not forget you no matter how long a break you need to take. Take care of yourself Monika.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Griz: I will do and thank you so much for your well wishes. I also haven’t forgotten your email reply but didn’t feel up to it yet. I promise to not forget since it means so much to me.
Right now I’m forced to do nothing and time will tell how things will go. Thanks for being a great friend.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Lissie: Thanks buddy. I promise to do that if my health doesn’t approve within the next week. You were right too, the doc was male, but he is also a friend and I hope he cares enough for me not to just dismiss me like that.
We suspected Ross River virus at first, but blood test have come back negative. So has Dengue fever and some other related tests. Naturally I’d like to at least know what exactly is wrong with me. I guess the next week will tell whether my health restores to normal or whether I need to take this further.
Thank you for caring, it means a lot to me for all of you.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Wendi: I’m sorry to hear that Wendi. I just looked it up and have to say that many of those symptoms also apply to me right now. I guess that is why we shouldn’t self diagnose, because so much seems applicable.
Thank you for your lovely words. You also gave me hope and knowledge if I ever need to take my tests further. At least I have an idea on what the docs need to check for next if that need arises. Scary for sure, but hope that life goes on, even if it was something serious and long term.
Big hugs to you.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ TDMV: Thank you Theo. All I can say to you is please be careful yourself. I used to think that my passion and excitement for the work I do would be enough to keep me going, but this isn’t so.
Health and balance is more important than anything else really. Unfortunately I had to learn this the hard way. Take care and thanks for taking the time to wish me well.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Ed: Thank you, I will do. Please look after yourself as well.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Carla: You are very kind, thank you so much for taking the time and wishing me well. It is really nice to know that so many people care I get better.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ WD: Thanks Sean, that means a lot to me. Take care for now yourself.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Lawrence Miller: Wow, thank you so much. I guess I don’t really like admitting illness and had to think hard about posting such a negative post. But then I am always open and believe my readers deserve to know what is going on.
I did take your advice and am sorry I didn’t get back to you on your last email. I’ve had a couple of rough days. Just so you know though, I really appreciated what you said and am flattered by your lovely words.
When I get better I will be in touch. Thank you for all you wrote and “said”.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Macnablan: Thank you Dan. I appreciate what you said and agree with you. I know I got sick because of inactivity and too many long hours without appropriate rest.
I think we need to put a lot more effort on writing about these things to help newcomers make better choices than we did.
Look after yourself too Dan, I realize we have only the one life.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Sara: Wow, your comment is a major wake up call not just for me I believe. I’m really sorry to hear about what you went through and so agree with the life change. To be honest, I can’t keep going on like I did. It wasn’t just the last 18 months as in my 22 years of chefing I worked a minimum of 60 hours a week on average.
We don’t get younger and fitter just by magic and now I know this more than ever. I really appreciate you took the time to share your story with all of us. I for one will take your advice to heart.
Thank you and bless you.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: Thank you Cath, yes I was up to my eyeballs and that is one of the problems that caused me this illness whatever it is.
I only mentioned CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome) because I have pretty much all of the symptoms, but it might be something totally different.
I also appreciate your offer, but at this stage I just put most of my business to sleep so to speak. Thank god for my fabulous clients as they are all very supportive.
Thanks Cath, for being a great friend.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Vered: Thank you for taking the time and wishing me well, I really appreciate this. I am humbled by all the support on this post alone as I never expected anything like that.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Zania: Thank you for caring, I am and will keep following everybody’s advice here, I have no other choice really.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Davina: Thank you for your advice and your offer. I might need your advice on eating good nutrition for life. I also love the fact that you said holistic. Right now I’m not doing too bad at all, but I don’t see myself doing what I do at the moment in a years time, simply for the fact that I’m taking nutritional shakes and supplements and while they are fabulous, one does get sick of them eventually. I have to say, they certainly help me and have done so in the past.
I also eat a salad for lunch every day with lots of vegetables and some protein like fish or cheese or a steak for the blood.
Do you do nutrition plans or similar?
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Mel: Thank you for your lovely words and your well wishes. Don’t worry, as soon as I get better, you will have me back here alive and kicking. But I have no idea whether this is next week, or next month so i thought it better to let you guys all know what is going on.
I wish you well too and look forward to seeing you around when I’m back.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Kevin: Thank you my friend. I also saw your other message and replied to that one before. It is nice to know I’m being missed by all of you great people.
Take care yourself and I see you when I’m back again.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Tumblemoose: Thank you George. Thank you for your email as well, I was very touched to hear from you like that.
I catch up with you when I get better if you don’t mind. Thanks for understanding.
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: Thank you my friend. I will take care I promise. Think about me when you catch your next fish, will you please?
Monika | Oct 16, 2008 | Reply
@ Leanne: I was thinking about you only the other day actually. I’m sorry to hear you had some battles too. I think this winter has been really bad for many Aussies as most were sick for long spells.
Good to hear you are on the mend but please take things easy anyway. It sucks being sick.
Thanks for being here and taking the time to comment when you probably should still be resting yourself.
Peter | Oct 17, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Been ages since I’ve commented, but I’ve kept an eye on the posting. Feel better; not just so we can keep hearing from you, but just for the sake of you getting better!
-Peter
Lillie Ammann | Oct 17, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Focus on yourself and your health right now. Business and blog will be here when you’re better.
Brett Legree | Oct 18, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
I am sorry to hear that you’re not well – I missed this update in my feed somehow the other day, and late last night I was wondering how you were doing – I planned to contact you this weekend to see if you needed a hand.
Take care of yourself, my friend. The blogging can wait.
Let me know if I can do anything.
-Brett
Kathy @ Virtual Impax | Oct 18, 2008 | Reply
If there’s anything I can do – let me know!
Bless your heart – the scariest part is NOT KNOWING what’s wrong! I’ll keep you in my prayers!
Davina | Oct 20, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika. From what you have shared, it looks like your diet is relatively healthy. I don’t get too hung up on supplements but won’t advise others to stop them if they feel they are working.
Aside from the diet are healthy eating practices that help ensure you are getting the benefit out of what you eat. Proper food combining if your digestion is sensitive, chewing the food really well and not drinking too much with meals. Sounds simple, but just those 3 things can make a huge difference (in addition to handling stress).
Other than a strict gluten-free diet I don’t follow a specific diet. I’m not a vegetarian. In the summer I eat more fruits and vegetables. In the colder months I focus on soups and stews and use a lot of garlic and ginger. I cut back on the raw foods in the winter months.
I bought some green drink powder and some flax oil but they are currently sitting at the back of my fridge. Sometimes those “healthy” foods don’t feel right to eat and I follow that.
It’s been a few days since you posted this… Hope you are feeling better now.
Lawrence Miller | Oct 20, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
It is easy to see, by all the great well wishes you are receiving through the comments on this article, that I am in good company when I say, you are not forgotten by those who know the good intentions that shine out from your heart in what you write and in what you do to help us individually when we call. You are a good soul and we need you healthy and whole, and once again in our midst in your special way.
Please don’t expend any much needed energy in responding to this comment. Just do us all a favor and get well soon.
Liz Isaacs | Oct 21, 2008 | Reply
M–hope your feeling better soon!
Jenny | Oct 21, 2008 | Reply
Rest & Relax! We will all be here when you need us, whether it be now, or later!
Get well soon!
Trent Brownrigg | Oct 22, 2008 | Reply
Hey Monika,
I’m a little late getting to this but I still wanted to say that I hope you get well soon! If you need any help with anything that I might be able manage with your business then let me know.
~Trent
ebele | Oct 22, 2008 | Reply
Thinking of you, hun.
Deep woman hugs…
Amy Derby | Oct 22, 2008 | Reply
Hope you’re feeling better soon and that the hiatus helps in your recovery. I had to take some time at the beginning of the year to be sick, so I know how it goes. I hope it is not too serious.
Graham Strong | Oct 22, 2008 | Reply
Sorry to hear about your health problems Monika. Hope you get better soon.
~Graham
Deborah | Oct 25, 2008 | Reply
Monika – I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been ill. I hope you find out what’s wrong soon so that you can get back to normal. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you out! Sending positive energies your way…
Lawrence Miller | Oct 26, 2008 | Reply
You are so missed! Please continue doing only what is best for you to get well.
Shaine Mata | Oct 27, 2008 | Reply
Get better soon. I discovered your site recently and find your work very helpful. Your hard work is appreciated. I look forward to your return.
Medic | Oct 31, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Been very busy offline and just read your post. Sorry to hear you’re sick. Hope you recover soon.
Medic
Conrad Zero | Oct 31, 2008 | Reply
M,
I had similar symptoms, I could sleep 24 x 7 for weeks and still not get enough. Finally went to the doctor, turned out I had mono and strep throat at the same time. My white blood cell count was at Guinness World Record levels, and the doctor was worried about me driving home. It turned out to be something my body had to fight off and it takes time. Don’t be too quick to buy into CFS, get a professional exam/opinion.
7-Up and Popsicles,
-Zero
Live for Improvement | Nov 1, 2008 | Reply
I am also sorry to hear your not feeling well. I just discovered your site, and I am excited to learn about blogging, I just started my first blog last week.
Kelly@SHE-POWER | Nov 3, 2008 | Reply
Been offline Monika so only just saw this. I hope your illness doesn’t turn out to be anything serious. maybe your body is just telling you to take care of it for awhile and change some habits. Here’s hoping you’re back to feeling as good as new soon.
Kelly xx
steph | Nov 4, 2008 | Reply
Monika?
Is this your new look? I just got a pingback from an old post you wrote and it brought me here.
I LOVE this new theme! It’s clean and beautiful and focused. I love it.
I hope you’re all right and are feeling better very soon. I’ve been worrying a bit about you!
ebele | Nov 5, 2008 | Reply
Monika, babes, I miss you. Thinking and praying for you. Get all the rest you need. We’ll be here when you get back.
Love…
ebele.
Sonya | Nov 5, 2008 | Reply
That makes me very sad. I’m new to your blog but I found you real and inspiring. Take good care of yourself and feel better soon. You mentioned taking supplements – zinc is really great for building the immune system. In addition focusing on organic foods and vegetables might be a good start. While you wait for your results make the health food store your best friend.
Love Sonya
Venkat | Nov 5, 2008 | Reply
Monika, you will be back with all your strength and energy very soon, will be praying for your speedy recovery.
Pearl | Nov 5, 2008 | Reply
Hey Monika.. I’m so sorry to hear this, been away all day today so didn’t check my email until just now. You know you are a very precious friend to all of us so don’t think even for a second you’ll be forgotten!
I’ve been struggling with some of my own issues so haven’t been around the blogosphere lately but please know that you are loved dearly and are in my prayers.. have plenty of rest and Im sure things will get better very soon
Loads of Love & Hugs
Pearl
Robert Fernandes | Nov 11, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monica,
Am glad to learn of your site through http://www.dumblittleman.com. Your postings are very inspirational, specially to beginers like me. Sorry to know about your sickness. I wish and pray for your speedy recovery and look forward to see your postings soon. Get well soon.
Regards,
robert.