I have a love/hate relationship with systemic lupus erythematosus, my invisible illness. Don't get me wrong. There is nothing to love about having a chronic illness. I definitely hate being sick but I love the fact that I have days when I can be "normal", with no physical symptoms.
I love the fact that I'm not bombarded with people staring at me since most don't know anything is wrong. But I hate the fact that sometimes my family and friends forget that my illness is potentially fatal.
I love the fact that I have days when I can run, dance, lift weights and do an aerobic workout. But I hate that those days make others think that the days I am bedridden aren't real.
I love that my good eating habits contribute to some of my good days. But I hate that no matter how well I take care of myself there will always be days when I can't do anything to feel better.
I love that Invisible Illness Week exists. But I hate that no matter how many prescription pill bottles I have in my purse or how often I describe my symptoms, there will always be doubters.
I love the fact that I'm not bombarded with people staring at me since most don't know anything is wrong. But I hate the fact that sometimes my family and friends forget that my illness is potentially fatal.
I love the fact that I have days when I can run, dance, lift weights and do an aerobic workout. But I hate that those days make others think that the days I am bedridden aren't real.
I love that my good eating habits contribute to some of my good days. But I hate that no matter how well I take care of myself there will always be days when I can't do anything to feel better.
I love that Invisible Illness Week exists. But I hate that no matter how many prescription pill bottles I have in my purse or how often I describe my symptoms, there will always be doubters.
(I love the fact that I can ignore them!)