WHERE MULTIPLE ILLNESSES MEET

An image of a crossroads with trees in the background. A signpost sits at the edge of the crossroads. There are two signs. One reads "Thriving" and the other reads "Coping". They point in opposite directions.

Welcome to Chronic Crossroads!

Hi, I’m Tess, and if you’ve found your way here, chances are you know the reality of living with chronic illness.

For me, it’s not just one condition — it’s IBS, GERD (or GORD, if you’re on the UK side of the pond), chronic kidney disease (CKD), celiac disease, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Each one comes with its own set of challenges, but the real trick is managing them all at the same time… especially when their “rules” contradict each other.

I created this blog because I couldn’t find much for people like me — people balancing multiple chronic illnesses at once. There’s plenty of advice for managing a single diagnosis, but when you’re juggling several? It’s a whole different ballgame.

Here, I share:

  • What works (and what doesn’t)

  • Practical coping strategies for everyday life

  • Recipes that actually work for my restrictions

  • Honest discussions about the emotional side of chronic illness

 If you’re new here, start with these posts:

  1. My diagnosis timeline: from first symptoms to five chronic conditions

  2. Meal Planning When Multiple Chronic Conditions Have Conflicting Needs

  3. Chronic Illness-Friendly Breakfast Ideas That Actually Keep Me Full

  4. My experience with elevating the bed for GERD relief

  5. How I handle flare-related guilt and frustration

  6. The doctor who finally listened — and what made the difference

Whether you’re here for the tips, the recipes, or just to feel a little less alone, I’m glad you’re here.