surviving Clarion with a chronic illness

[shweta_narayan]

I've been asked about how I survived Clarion while ill, and figured it might be of interest to more than just one or two people, so figured a post might be better than email. Also, that maybe other people with CIs could chime in? About Clarion or, even better, about other workshops? Given my limited experience this is going to be a very Clarion-

Comments

[rose_lemberg]

I have nothing to add, but I have *hugs*

[shweta_narayan]

<3

[ext_194791]

Thank you for writing and sharing this!

[shweta_narayan]

:)
also hi!

[julieandrews]

Is this in response to the Wiscon panel? If not, I hope some of the panelists have read this!

[shweta_narayan]

um there's a panel? One of the 2012 Clarionites asked, is all I know...

[julieandrews]

Oh. Yup. Let me dig up the description.

Intersectionality in the Writing Workshop Environment

Intensive writing workshops can be incredible life-changing experiences. But what's it like to attend them as a writer of color, a woman, a trans person, a queer person? What if you have disabilities or are lacking in financial means? Let's discuss which workshops are the most accepting (and to whom) and uncover strategies to help you get the best out of the experience. The focus will be on in-person workshops, but online workshops may also be discussed.

I suggested this panel, though it's been revised from my original proposal.

Panelists are Keffy Kehrli, Vylar Kaftan, and someone I don't know, Ibi Zoboi.

[shweta_narayan]

Oh huh! Though hey, I guess Keffy & Vylar will both see this go by on their flists, anyway...

[kate_schaefer]

Shweta, this is excellent, particularly the prioritization list. It's appropriate advice for everyone attending Clarion or Clarion West, even those not managing a chronic illness.

I was managing an impaired immune system at CW in 1992; I didn't yet know the extent of the allergies underlying the problem. I coped by taking a nap every single afternoon before reading the next day's stories.

The weekends (at Clarion West, at any rate) are a great opportunity to rest and catch up.

[shweta_narayan]

Ohhhh you reminded me of something I meant to put in the list - immune system issues. Thankyou! :)

...weekends are mostly when I got reading in rather than rest, I must admit XD

[txanne]

This is useful for any kind of traveling with a CI, I think. I'm currently planning a school trip to Europe, and there's at least one asthmatic who's interested in going. Plus I'm sure there are some invisible or undiagnosed issues. May I adapt this post for inclusion in the trip materials? If so, how should I credit it?

[shweta_narayan]

Oh! Absolutely, and um I have no clue on crediting, name & url I guess? :)

I would add, for an asthmatic in Europe - especially one with any cigarette smoke sensitivity - a microfiber scarf or turtlefur is a lifesaver. Can get that over your nose & mouth in 2 seconds and it filters out all the awful stuff. I don't leave the house without one here, and it's saved me from multiple major attacks already.