janet
I have suffered from fibromyalgia and the accompaning chronic fatigue for about 25 years - long before it became one of the "in" diseases. I do not doubt the sincerity of your disease as the symptoms described and the additional hardship of having young children. I had two daughters while suferring from the big "F" and you are correct to hope as they get older they will understand. My first suggestion is to find a good rheumatologist which can offer you some relief. (actually a fairly young doctor would be best as they are more aware of the disease where older physicians seem to say it is just "a woman's thing and is probably in your mind.) The usual protocal is steriods - most probably prednisone - which offer temporary relief and usually a weight gain. Please be careful of the amount of steroids you take as they possibly make you more prone to developing other problems down the road. One of the best (and safest) things you can do is find a heated pool to exercise and relax in. Again, it is a temporary fix but the relief and added strength and quality time you can spend with your family. I go to a pool in a physical therapy facility - smaller than a normal swimming pool - but allows you more privicay and usually time with other victims of "F". The pool should be fairly warm - about 100+ degrees - and you should only stay in for 30 to 45 minutes. If you go after work, it provides a much better mommy coming home to children, husband, and a nicer evening. Most facilities will allow you to pay a smaller month fee if you just use their heated exercise pool. One other thought - a good water bed (not the ones of the past with all the waves)with chambers/tubes can give you a better sleeping environment. Good luck and feel free to contact me if you wish - misery loves company. God bless