Recent news reports talk of software company Microsoft and Pfizer teaming up to shut down a whole network or ring of illegitimate online pharmacies. Out of a total of 17 law suits, named operations include "CanadaPharmacy," "E-Pharmacy Direct," "DiscountRx," "VirtualRx", and "EzyDrugStore."

The reasoning behind this latest group of law suits stands on platform of ridding online pharmacy industry of sellers of counterfeit drugs. These cases involve counterfeit versions of Pfizer's flagship medication, Viagra, a safe solution to embarrassing and stressful problem of erectile dysfunction. If this is about drugs, you ask, then why is Microsoft involved? Well, as owner of Hotmail free email service used by millions of people, company seems to have vowed to do all it can to kill off companies such as those above, who send out hundreds of millions of emails to Hotmail customers, carefully crafted to get past current spam filters.

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* Explain that you don’t show your worst symptoms to world, when they see you it is usually when you are feeling well enough to go out, not when you are feeling lousy and need to stay home. You may not seem to be sick because usually see you when you are feeling well.

* Clarify that your illness takes an emotional and financial toll as well as a physical toll. Explain that it takes time from your schedule to deal with symptoms, medical appointments, lifestyle adjustments, etc. Let them know that support makes it easier to deal with symptoms, but that there may still be times when you are depressed.

* Let them know that you have good days and bad days. Help them to understand that sometimes planning ahead is difficult.

* Make it clear that your illness does not define you, even when it influences choices you make.

* If after doing your very best to explain your illness to your friends and family they still aren't supportive, accept that not everyone can understand what you're going through. Be patient.

* Finally, if you can not find support you need within your circle of friends, join a support group or find other forms of support such as a life coach who specializes in coaching those with chronic illnesses. Social support is important in helping you manage your illness and in maintaining your emotional health.

Julie Renee Callaway is a life coach specializing in helping professional women reach their dreams and cope with chronic illness, infertility, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). You can learn more at www.composeyourlife.com or www.pcoscoach.com.