Will I Need a Wheelchair? My Honest Thoughts

I've been going back and forth about writing this because saying it out loud makes it all feel more real. I think I've reached a point where I need to stop avoiding it and just be honest with myself.

I don't think the question is "Will I need a wheelchair?" anymore."Not anymore," because if I'm being honest, I think I already do.

It feels heavy to admit that, not in a dramatic way, but in a quiet, settling way, like something clicked into place that I wasn't ready to face before.

This wouldn't have even crossed my mind a few months ago. I was always on the move and doing things, and I knew my body would keep up with me. That's just how life was: if something hurt, I would rest and get better. Now it doesn’t feel like that at all.

I have a connective tissue disorder right now, and my body just doesn't feel stable anymore. Additionally I have seizures which make walking a risk even if my body wasn't in chronic pain. My joints don't feel supported, my muscles are always working extra hard to make up for it, and there's a level of pain that never really goes away. Also, the tiredness is so bad that it's hard to explain unless you've felt it. It's not just being tired; it's the kind of tiredness that makes everything I try to do harder. I also have Raynaud's which means my limbs get extremely cold as blood doesn't flow properly or normally making my feet very painful to walk and even numb to the point I trip up because I cannot feel the ground or each step.

At the same time, I’m still in the middle of ongoing hospital investigations, which makes everything feel even more uncertain. I’ve already had an ECG, I’ve got an MRI coming up, and there are still a lot of unanswered questions about what’s going on and how things are going to progress, so it feels like I’m stuck in this waiting period where I know something is wrong but don’t fully have the full picture yet.

While all of that is happening, I’ve already had to adapt a lot of my daily life. I use my cane, I’ve got a shower chair, grab handles, tools to help me reach things I can’t anymore, and even my bed setup has changed so I can manage more comfortably. These things have genuinely helped and made things more manageable.

Alongside that, I’m actively trying to improve things where I can. I’m starting physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, and I’ve already been doing acupuncture, all while managing everything with a bit of a cocktail of medications to try and keep symptoms under control. I’m doing everything I can to support my body and not just give in to what’s happening.

But even with all of that in place, it’s been suggested that I look into using a wheelchair for the harder days, especially when moving at all is painful and pushing through just makes everything worse. That suggestion stuck with me more than I expected.

Because when I really look at my day to day life, I can see the patterns I can’t ignore anymore, like the days where walking hurts from the moment I get up, or the times I avoid doing things because I know the energy cost will completely wipe me out. I plan my days around what my body might allow rather than what I actually want to do, and that shift has been one of the hardest parts to accept.

It’s not just about pain, it’s about how much of my freedom feels limited by it. That’s what has made me start seriously thinking about a wheelchair.

At first, I pushed the idea away because it felt like too much and like I was admitting defeat in some way. I kept questioning myself, wondering if I was overreacting or if I was somehow not “bad enough” to need one, and I worried about how other people might see me.

The more I’ve sat with it though, the more I’ve realised those thoughts aren’t actually helping me. A wheelchair wouldn’t be taking something away from me, it would be giving me options and parts of my life back that I feel like I’m slowly losing.

I also know that if I do this, it wouldn’t be a manual chair. I understand my body well enough now to know that pushing myself around would likely cause more damage, especially to my shoulders, arms, and back, which already struggle. The idea of adding more strain just to stay mobile doesn’t feel sustainable.

An electric wheelchair makes more sense for me because it would support my mobility without putting extra pressure on the parts of my body that are already struggling. Choosing that option feels less like giving up and more like protecting my body long term so I don’t make things worse.

There is still fear there, especially around how visible it is and how people might react, and I know adjusting to it would be a big change.

At the same time, there is also a growing sense of relief when I think about it properly, because the idea of having that level of support and being able to go out without constantly worrying about pain or energy feels like it would give me a level of freedom I haven’t had in a while.

I’m still figuring everything out and waiting on results, and I know things might change as I learn more, but mentally I feel like I’ve reached a point where I can’t ignore what my body is telling me anymore.

I’m not really asking if I need a wheelchair at this point, I’m trying to figure out when it’s the right time to take that step.

Thank you for reading,
Fae

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Coming to Terms with Needing Mobility Aids

 

I still have a version of my life in my head.

The one where I could just leave. No planning at all. No pacing. I didn't have to think twice about whether my body would cooperate that day.

I haven't let go of that part of myself in a single moment. It's been a long, painful process. One that I'm still in.

The truth is that needing mobility aids isn't just about the things themselves. It's about what they stand for.

The Best Christmas Gift Guide for Fantasy Book Lovers

Now that Christmas is almost here, it's time to find the best gift for the fantasy fan in your life. This guide is full of cosy, fun, and thoughtful gift ideas that will make their holiday season even more magical, whether they are a big reader or just love magical worlds.

Candles/wax melts with fantasy themes
Set the mood for a deep reading session with lights that are inspired by magic. Think of enchanted woods, mysterious castles, or the cosy warmth of a wizard's tower when you choose a smell. A themed candle, whether it's based on a favourite book's setting or a magical creature, will take any reader to their next literary trip.

Bookmarks
Bookmarks make great gifts because they are useful and fun, and there are so many fun ones for fantasy fans. The right bookmark can make reading even more magical. There are metal ones that look like swords or dragons, and others are etched with favourite quotes from well-known fantasy books. For styles that match their favourite fandom, look for ones that are handmade or artistic.

Clothes with fantasy themes
Help people who love books be proud of what they do! Gifts that can be worn include clothes with quotes from great sagas, magical animals, or intricate patterns that are based on fantasy worlds. Everyone who likes fantasy can find something to wear while they read. There are colourful T-shirts, cosy hoodies, and tote bags with magical symbols on them.

Pins and jewellery
Enamel pins are a stylish and understated way for book fans to show their love for the genre. Pins can be put on jackets, bags, or lanyards to show off a dragon, a spellbook, or a character from their favourite fantasy series. For something a little more unique, think about fantasy-themed rings, necklaces, or bands with figures, runes, or symbols from mythology.

Limited edition books
A beautifully bound collector's version of a beloved fiction book is the best gift you can give someone. It's really nice to have these versions because they have beautiful patterns, foil details, and sometimes even pictures or sprayed edges. To add a bit of class to their shelves, look for deluxe editions of their favourite books, whether they are old high fantasy classics or new epics.

Art prints
If a reader wants to show off their love of magic in their home, a decorative art picture is the perfect gift. Art prints can bring a favourite story to life in a new way. They can be anything from detailed maps of magical places to bright paintings of famous scenes or characters. Beautiful to look at on the wall and a unique way to keep their favourite books close.

Puzzles and games with a fantasy theme
A fantasy-themed puzzle or game is the perfect gift for someone who likes to read and play games. Choose a puzzle with a castle, scenery, or character from their favourite stories that comes to life in a new way. You can spend hours having a great time with role-playing games or board games that are based on fantasy experiences.

Book Sleeves Made by Hand
Giving someone a book cover is a thoughtful gift that is also useful and cute. These padded cloth covers keep books safe from damage, making them great for people who like to take their latest book with them. Pick a book cover with a fantasy-themed design, like one with dragons, magical symbols, or green woods, to make reading a little more magical.

Book Nooks
With book nook pieces, you can put little scenes between books on a shelf and make it look like a window to another world. Many of the time, these tiny dioramas show famous places from favourite fantasy books, like magical libraries, secret passageways, or enchanted woods. A unique book nook insert can make a reader's favourite story come to life in a beautiful way.

Notebooks and journals
A fantasy-themed diary is a great gift for someone who loves reading and writing or drawing. If they like magical stories, look for notebooks with leather covers that are stamped, have lots of small details, or have magical symbols on them. They can write down their thoughts, make plans for their next trip, or even start writing their own dream story.

Thank you for reading,
Fae

📸 Instagram:

[Bookish Account] - @Faeryn_Tales 

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📧 Collaboration Inquiries use the media kit contact 

Making your own bookish cosplay costumes - ACOTAR inspired - Tips and tricks

Getting into cosplay that is based on books is like entering the wonderful worlds of your favourite stories, bringing the characters to life with your own unique touch. I really enjoy dressing up as Feyre from ACOTAR and Amarantha from the same series. I've learned that the key is to be creative, practical, and a little unique.

Let's take a look at the magical process of making book cosplays happen.

Feyre's Starfall Dress: A Beautiful Second-Hand Item

It was a dream to cosplay as Feyre with my boyfriend as Rhysand. The book gave readers a vivid picture of the starfall dress, but it only lived in their minds. To make this dream come true, I chose a beautiful silver mermaid dress from Molly Nguyen that I got used for a lot less than it was worth because it had a small tear in it. You can find the original straight from Molly Nguyen here. Tip: After prom season, searching on eBay and Depop can reveal secret gems that match the ethereal "starfall" style.

Shades may be described in books as "pale blue diamonds," but how you see them is what matters. The colour I chose was more silvery, but the fun of bookish costumes is seeing how each fan brings their own ideas to life.

Accessories, which are the unsung stars of any cosplay, were used to finish off my look. I found celestial earrings and loops at Claire's Europe that went perfectly with the theme of the night sky without breaking the bank. The hands were gloves made from sheer tights with sharpie drawn on for feyre's 'tattoos' then to make it look more realistic I added false nails to the gloves hand and ungolved hand to make it look cohesive.

Amarantha: Upcycled,thrifted and new

There are both old and new ways to cosplay in Amarantha's Dark Elegance. Amarantha wanted a dark, fancy outfit that made her look seductive. I showed my thrifty side when I used a used black dress and a corset to make a fancy outfit with lots of layers. I cut 2 side slits in the thrifted dress to add a touch of seductiveness I thought based on the books Amarantha might have. Tip: Be patient.You can find things that won't break the bank by waiting for sales, searching through secondhand stores, and keeping an eye out for deals after the prom. I added floral rose like patterned tights I already owned as a nod to the title of the book, "A Court of Thorns and Roses."

The lacey arm sleeves were from an old cosplay. Then I got from the sales at Ann Summers' a duster jacket intended as a swimsuit coverup to help add to the layered 'expensive' look I wanted for Amarantha, it was black mesh with gold flecks it was perfect. The entire look was put with a red wig and high black heels both of which I already owned to complete the look.

Accept your own unique interpretation:

The great thing about cosplays based on books is that they can be interpreted in any way you want. Every little thing you do, like using clothes from your closet, thrift store finds, or your own creativity to make accessories, makes your version of a popular character unique. Book cosplay is fun, cheap, and open to your own ideas. It's like a blank canvas waiting for you to paint on it. Enjoy the adaptable nature book cosplays are. Through makeup, wigs, and other accessories, everyone brings a different concept to life with how they interpret their ideas. Let your personality show in how you see it.

In conclusion, book cosplay isn't just about dressing up as characters; it's also about putting your own personality into the story, giving words life, and entering the magical worlds you love. Let your imagination run wild, believe in magic, and see how the pages of your favourite books come to life in a way that only you can.

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[Secondary Cosplay account] - @FaeKoneko

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Ad: LuluWicksAndDreamsUK - bookish merch etsy store

 ** Ad/Advert: Partner Sponsored Post. Disclosure: LuluWicksAndDreamsUK is the sponsor of this blog post. The views expressed are entirely mine.**

LuluWicksAndDreamsUK on Etsy, is your one-stop shop for officially licenced goods based on the enthralling worlds authored by renowned authors like Rebecca Yarros and Sarah J. Maas.  LuluWicksAndDreamsUK click here to go to their etsy store.

LuluWicksAndDreamsUK's bookmarks are beautifully made to look like characters from Rebecca Yarros's Fourth Wing and Iron Flame series. They also have a luxurious touch that makes them stand out. Each bookmark is velevt laminated on both sides for extra protection and a luxurious feel. This makes sure that they will last for a long time. With dimensions of 52mm x 148mm and a print on 400gsm silk card stock, these bookmarks are not only beautiful to look at but also built to last. The laminated surface's soft matte finish not only makes them feel better to the touch, but it also helps them stick to the pages better, so they're less likely to fall out while you read. These bookmarks are sure to improve your reading experience in more than one way, whether you collect them for looks or use them to follow along with tabbed pages during read-alongs.

The wax melts were a true gem among the many treasures, demonstrating the artistry and meticulous attention to detail that characterise this prestigious establishment. With their alluring scents, each wax melt—from the delicate floral notes of "Spring Court" to the rich, violet scent of "Violet Sorrengail: Lightning Wielder" promised to take me right into the heart of the narrative. Each aroma, whether it was the rich, violet scent of "Violet Sorrengail: Lightning Wielder" or the flowery scents of "Spring Court" wax melt, served as a tie in between the books and reality and reminder of the immersive experience that can be found within the pages of our favourite books, I loved the idea of the wax melts to help transport me into my favourite stores to hep create deep immersion. 

LuluWicksAndDreamsUK wax melts were made by hand with great care in the UK. They are a great example of quality and craftsmanship. Each wax melt is a work of art in its own right, made with only the best ingredients, like 100% natural soy wax, biodegradable glitter, and fragrance oils with strong scents. The snap bar is about 50 grams and is said to burn for 50 to 60 hours, giving you hours and hours of fragrant pleasure. As soon as you put them in a wax melter with an unscented 4h tea light, the magic will start to happen. Don't worry, all wax melts are CLP-compliant and carefully labelled as stated by the stores etsy page, so every careful customer can be sure they are safe. It's crucial to remember that in order for these entrancing wax melts to fully release their aromatic magic, a wax melter is needed. I think most bookish folk have one but if not, you can find the ideal melter to go with your newly discovered treasures by doing a quick internet search I recommend the electric type for safety.  

Apart from the delightful bookmarks, my exploration at LuluWicksAndDreamsUK revealed an abundance of treasures suitable to adorn the library of any book enthusiast. Every item of clothing, from the High Lord of the Night Court Rhysand tee to the "violent little thing" sweatshirt featuring Tairn's violet flowers and lightning strike details, exuded refinement and respect for the cherished figures and settings that have captivated our shared imagination. The sweatshirt that read "violent little thing" In addition to the eye-catching design of Tairns silhouette, violet flowers, and lightning strike details from the Empyrean series, this sweatshirt has a soft fleece inner lining that adds an extra layer of comfort. I felt warm and cosy as soon as I slipped into its embrace, which made it the ideal friend for chilly reading evenings or leisurely strolls through made-up worlds. The high lord rhysand t-shirt also comes in styles with Cassian and Azriel, two other popular "bat boys" from the ACOTAR series. Fans can show their support for their favourite character in style with these t-shirts, which feature the unique signet colours that represent each character's wings. Each fan can proudly wear a shirt that shows their love for one of the characters: Cassian, Azriel, Rhysand himself, or one of the other characters. With their eye-catching designs and comfortable fit, these t-shirts are more than just clothes. They're a way for fans to show their support for each other and for Sarah J. Maas's incredible cast of characters.

LuluWicksAndDreamsUK's steadfast dedication to excellence is what really makes it stand out. Authors such as Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros have granted official licences for each product in their store. With this endorsement, fans can be assured of an unmatched level of craftsmanship and fidelity to the original source material, as each item has undergone rigorous scrutiny and approval.

To sum up, LuluWicksAndDreamsUK was truly remarkable. Through its exceptional assortment of officially licenced merchandise, superb craftsmanship, and steadfast commitment to the art of storytelling, LuluWicksAndDreamsUK has firmly established itself to me as a go to etsy stroe for bookish merch and items like the wax melts to help with immersion in reading. 

Why then wait? Set out on your own literary journey right now and explore the magical discoveries waiting for you at LuluWicksAndDreamsUK on Etsy.

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LuluWicksAndDreamsUK 

[Disclosure: LuluWicksAndDreamsUK is the sponsor of this blog post. The views expressed are entirely mine.]

Follow my socials for more: 🌟

📸 Instagram:

[Main Cosplay Account] - @FaeQuirky 

[Secondary Cosplay account] - @FaeKoneko

🎬 TikTok: @FaeKoneko

Media kit: https://beacons.ai/faequirky/mediakit

MCM London Comic Con Returns This May! 🎉

Is it just me or is 2025 speeding by?! MCM London Comic Con is BACK at the ExCeL Centre from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th May 2025, and it’s bringing the absolute chaos (in the best way). Whether you’re here for the fandoms, the cosplay, the panels, the guests, or just the vibes, you’re in for a weekend packed full of pop culture goodness.

What to Expect?
Run by ReedPop, MCM London happens twice a year and this spring’s lineup is already looking amazing. You’ll find guests from TV, film, anime, and gaming, plus independent artists, creators, and brands all over the show floor. Expect stage panels, exclusive merch, educational sessions, and fan meetups galore. And yes, the Meet and Greet Zone is back so you can say hi to your fave creators!

Cosplay Lip Sync Battle is back!
Yup, the fan-favourite Cosplay Lip Sync Battle is making a dramatic return on Friday 23rd May and you just know the crowd is gonna go wild. Contestants will battle it out on stage for the ultimate crown (and tickets to the next event). Think you’ve got what it takes? Apply here and bring the drama.

Fan Meets & Fandom Love
One of my personal highlights: Fan Meets! There’s something so wholesome about seeing a whole group of people vibing over the same thing. From anime squads to D&D crews to Disney darlings if you’ve got a fandom, there’s probably a meet-up for it. You can even register your own meet from March 1st. Group pics incoming 📸

Community Zone: Friends, Props, and Nerd Joy
MCM’s community zone is always full of heart. There’ll be showcases, collabs, photo ops, and surprises from community groups and creators. It’s such a brilliant way to make new friends and dive deeper into your favourite fandoms. If you’ve got something cool to contribute props, activities, the works get in touch via mcmcontent@rxglobal.com!

Meet the Creators IRL
Over at the Creator Pavilion, influencers and artists from YouTube, TikTok, Twitch and beyond are ready to meet you face-to-face. From nerdy music artists and mental health advocates to cartoonists, illustrators, VTubers, and cosplay makers, it’s an epic mix of creativity and community. I’m especially excited to swing by Lightsen, Shwabadi, Evy Benita, and PenPen the VTuber 🐧💕

Educational Panels & Creator Clinics
Want to level up your skills? Check out MCM’s educational programming and Creator Clinics. You’ll find hands-on workshops covering everything from cosplay and podcasting to voice acting, TTRPGs, and art portfolios. This is where the pros spill the tea and share insider tips and I will be absolutely taking notes.

Gaming, Quiet Spaces & Mental Health
Gaming fans can find their happy place at the Reset Room (Platinum Suite) with Gaming the Mind and the Lofi Lounge (Rooms N1/N2 Lower) hosted by Game Therapy UK. It’s not just games there’s also painting, co-op experiences, and space to recharge away from the show floor chaos. We love a mental health moment.

After Hours Party 🎉🎧
Let’s be honest MCM doesn’t stop when the show floor closes. Friday night’s After Hours Party is giving full-on geek rave energy. From girlypop hits to chaotic mosh vibes, it’s hosted by ALT PARTY CO and sounds like the ultimate nerd night out. You’ll need to reserve your spot and grab a wristband in the Platinum Suite reserve here!

18+ Content?
Yes, there is grown-up stuff if that’s your thing. From mature video games to 18+ workshops, you’ll need to sign up separately and bring valid ID sign up here to get updates.

Show Times
Here’s when the magic happens:

• Friday: Priority Entry 10am | General 12pm - 6pm (After Hours ‘til 9pm!)

• Saturday: Priority 9am | General 11am - 7pm

• Sunday: Priority 10am | General 12pm - 5pm

Final Thoughts
Whether you’re here for the fandom feels, the cosplays, or just to treat yourself to a day of pure geek joy MCM London Comic Con is the event. I’m counting down the days until I’m back at ExCeL, fangirling and flailing right alongside you. Keep an eye on the official site and socials for guest updates and schedules closer to the show.

Come hang out with me 23–25 May at MCM London and let’s make memories! 💖✨

Welcome to my blog

Hi there! I'm Fae a general craft goblin, bookworm, and cosplayer. I am ecstatic to have you visit my site, "Faeryn Tales" Get ready for an exciting journey into the extraordinary, where all of my hobbies and daily life collide. This blog is named after me and what people describe my interests as 'quirky'.

I've been lost in the world of make-believe ever since I can remember. A big thank you to my mother, who began this whole process by teaching me how to sew and producing costumes for me when I was little. After all this time, I'm still dressing up, but with a fancy name now: cosplayer. I'm attempting to recycle, upcycle, thrift, and give used costumes a second chance at life I don't like how people get cosplays only to wear once so I try to recycle and reuse mine as much as possible to limit my waste from cosplaying a hobby which sadly can lead to alot of trash when you aren't careful about it. 

I'm now completing my final year of study in 3D modelling and making virtual ideas come true. I have the ability to model things digitally in 3D and then 3D print them from the screen to my hand to make them come to life.

In addition to doing cosplays, I love to read. I may frequently be found buried in fantasy books or working my BookTok magic on cosplays that are based on my most recent reading adventures. I am particularly fond of Feyre Acheron from Sarah J. Maas's ACOTAR trilogy. I occasionally show off my Feyre cosplays, in which I embody my inner High Fae and dance through the night as though I've just left the Night Court.

But there's still more! I've had the amazing privilege of attending events such as the Hyper Japan in London and the Rapture Medway Festival as a cosplay guest. Additionally, I've assisted in promoting occasions like the Bury arcade's Timeless Gaming Convention. It's about more than simply getting dressed up for me; it's about sharing stories, forming connections with other cosplayers, and maybe breaking into a happy dance when someone recognises one of my favourite characters.

It's your turn now! Jump right in and leave comments on your favourite books, cosplay triumphs, favourite video games, or just to say hello. You are now formally a member of the quirky' team here.

Are you prepared for the journey? I'm thrilled to have you along for the ride as The Faeryn Tales come to life!

Thank you for reading,

Fae

Follow my socials for more: 🌟

📸 Instagram:

[Main Cosplay Account] - @FaeQuirky 

[Secondary Cosplay account] - @FaeKoneko

🎬 TikTok: @FaeKoneko

Media kit: https://beacons.ai/faequirky/mediakit