18
Feb
“But You Don’t Look Sick…”
Oof!!! If only I had a penny for every time I’ve had to explain my invisible illness upon hearing this phrase! Not only would this whole insurance issue really not be bothering me one bit - but you can also bet on it that the whole world would be an amazing utopia of free shoes for all!
Have no fear, however! Check these out! A doctor friend of mine recently introduced me to these cool little YouTube videos by Nucleus Medical Media. They scientifically, yet simply, explain even the hardest to wrap-your-head-around illnesses. I mean, when you can logically explain Complex Regional Pain Syndrome or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (CRPS/RSD) in 2 minutes 20 seconds flat… I’m a believer!
It’s hard to argue against science, and by showing people solid evidence I hope that it will not only take care of the title question, but also of the many other somewhat frustrating questions or statements you’re bound to get with an invisible illness such as:
“But isn’t pain in your head?”
or my personal favorite:
“Well at least it doesn’t sound life threatening! I’m sure you’ll be fine.”
(Read more of these here or here).
Unfortunately, I’m doubtful as to whether they’ll have every chronic or invisible illness to help you all - but for those that it does, I hope it removes some of the well-earned frustration that is often fueled by mis or a lack of understanding.
As Ms. SHOW-grins pointed out in a brilliant post earlier today…
Due to the restriction of chronic illness, we (the sickies) are constantly trying to explain our illness to others. Ultimately, this can turn into justifying our illness, which puts us on the defensive.
And of course, I love her positive spin on things! (Seriously, check her out…)
Initially, I felt defensive of these questions, but now I try to ignore the potentially negative connotative of these types of comments. There’s no point in being hung up on the way someone phrased something. Instead, I use it as an opportunity to enlighten the person on my condition. It is then up to them to chose to hear me speak or listen to what I am actually saying…
Couldn’t have said that better myself. xx
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jackiebarnes said:
I had a doctor tell me that I couldn’t be in “that much pain” because I was smiling & positive. Frustrating when even the doctors don’t understand!
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