Ten Things You Should Know About Your Friend With A Chronic Illness

Most people know someone with a chronic illness, but a lot of them don't know what we are truly feeling.

1. Sometimes we are just really tired

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There are some days where our energy is above average and other days where showering becomes the biggest chore in the world

2. Just because we look good doesn't mean we feel good

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A lot of our illnesses are invisible, so if we look all put together but need to sit down and catch our breath, it's because internally we might be in a lot of pain

3. Please stop suggesting that your kale diet will make us feel better KAREN!

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When you get diagnosed, you research the crap out of your illness and learn exactly what to do to feel better. So unless you are an expert, please back off our bodies.

4. We don't ditch plans last minute because we want to

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There are so many times that we are really excited to go out, but have to cancel because we have flare ups or energy deficits.

5. If we give you healthcare advice it is because we know the system and medications better than anyone

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We spend a lot of time with and around doctors and a lot of time taking medications, so we probably know a thing or two that can help alleviate the stress of your healthcare experience.

6. We probably have some PTSD and anxiety about our health condition(s) past, present, and future

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Some of us had devastating flare ups others had horrific treatments and some people don't know when that next devastating flare is going to be. To say the least, sometimes our mental health can be a bit shaky.

7. Nothing makes us feel more loved than when someone accepts us for who we are

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Thank you for those standing with us in solidarity.

8. We appreciate you checking in on us...no it is not annoying

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When we are feeling down physically and mentally, nothing feels better than knowing someone cares about you and that you are not alone.

9. Having a chronic illness does not mean that we are any less capable

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A lot of people will treat you differently once they find out that you are sick. They will blame mistakes on your illness and or not choose you to spearhead projects. Little do they know, we are probably some of the strongest, most-capable leaders out there.

10. Having a chronic illness can be really isolating and frustrating, but because of it, we are stronger, fiercer, and more resilient than you could imagine

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The things we have seen and felt are indescribable, but that only makes us fight harder for cures, better treatments, equality! Spoonies unite!