Writing has always been a passion of mine—an escape, a creative outlet, and a way to share my love for food, storytelling, and connection. But writing with chronic illness, chronic pain, and fatigue adds a whole new layer of challenge to the process.

Some days, I can lose myself in my words, feeling the excitement of bringing a story or a recipe to life. Other days, even forming a single sentence feels like running a marathon.

Still, despite the struggles, writing is one of the joys in my life. Today, I want to share what it’s really like to write while navigating chronic pain and fatigue—the victories, the hardships, and everything in between.

The Struggles: When Pain and Fatigue Get in the Way

1. Fatigue Can Steal My Words

There are days when the exhaustion is so overwhelming that even thinking clearly feels impossible. I’ll sit down to write, excited about a new chapter or a fresh recipe idea, only to find my mind clouded with brain fog. The words are there—I know they are—but I just can’t reach them.

👉 How I Adapt: On those days, I let myself write in small bursts, even if it’s just a few sentences at a time.

2. Chronic Pain Makes Writing Physically Hard

Writing is often romanticized as a cozy activity—curled up with a laptop, fingers dancing over the keyboard. But when you live with chronic pain, even sitting for long periods hurts. My hands ache, my back stiffens, and sometimes my entire body protests against the idea of being at my desk for too long.

👉 How I Adapt: I’ve learned to listen to my body. I use ergonomic supports, take frequent breaks.

3. Frustration Over Lost Time

One of the hardest parts of writing with chronic illness is the inconsistency. Some days, I feel productive and energized. Other days, my body forces me to step away from writing entirely. It’s frustrating to lose time, especially when I have projects I’m excited about.

👉 How I Adapt: I remind myself that writing isn’t a race. Progress is progress, even if it’s slow. Giving myself grace and flexibility has helped me move forward without feeling defeated.

The Joys: Why Writing Still Feels Like Magic

1. Writing Gives Me Purpose

Even on the hardest days, writing gives me something to look forward to. When I’m working on my cookbooks, I remind myself that I have stories to tell—stories that matter.

2. Creativity Is Healing

While chronic illness has taken a lot from me, it hasn’t taken my creativity. In fact, writing has become one of my greatest coping tools. When I write, I get to step outside my pain, even if just for a little while. It’s a form of escape, a way to channel emotions, and a reminder that I am more than my diagnosis.

3. I Can Inspire Others

One of the most beautiful things about writing is the ability to connect with others. Whether it’s through a recipe that helps someone manage their diabetes or a story that resonates with a reader, my words have the power to make a difference. That alone makes the struggle worth it.

Final Thoughts: Writing at My Own Pace

Writing with chronic illness isn’t easy. Some days, it’s downright exhausting. But I’ve learned to embrace my own rhythm, to write when I can, and to be kind to myself when I can’t.

If you’re a writer living with chronic illness, know this: Your voice matters. Your pace is valid. And your stories deserve to be told.

Are you dealing with chronic illness? I’d love to hear your experience. How do you navigate the challenges while still pursuing your passions? Let’s support each other on this journey.