But You LOOK Good: How to Encourage and Understand People Living with Illness and Pain

Wayne Connell's experience includes that of a professional, multitasking husband caregiver with an extensive background in management, media and technology. He obtained a BA in Television & Radio Broadcasting and Computer Information Systems from Colorado Christian University. Wayne has additional training in business and public speaking. He also is an avid writer and top 10 blogger on Disability.gov's Disability Blog.

Sherri Connell was an extremely active person who loved her careers, singing and dancing in musicals, riding her horse and lifting weights. In college, she studied Music Theatre, and then obtained 2 Bachelor Degrees in Business with a Minor in Liberal Arts.

Although Sherri had enormous plans for her life, just as she was plotting out her Master's Degree, she was stopped in her tracks at the age of 27. Starting with another winter bout of pneumonia, Sherri became paralyzed, so sick she could barely sit up and was in horrible pain. She was hospitalized and diagnosed with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis and Late-Chronic Lyme Disease.

Suddenly, she went from "on the go" 24/7 to struggling just to get to a doctor's appointment or take a shower. In addition to MS and Lyme Disease, Sherri lives with Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), multiple food allergies, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Wayne married Sherri in 1994. Wayne just knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Sherri, even if it meant dealing with pain and suffering. However, Wayne had no idea that his decision would lead to having a heart for all who live with chronic illness and pain.

Wayne's desire to help others who struggle with disabilities has become a passion for him. Wayne has seen so many friends and families torn apart by chronic conditions. This is why he founded the organization, the Invisible Disabilities Association (www.InvisibleDisabilities.org).