This summer, in the middle of managing a mountain of medical tests for my chronic conditions, I felt something unusual in my left breast. It wasn’t obvious, just a vague lumpiness I couldn’t quite define. Life was already chaotic, so I brushed it off, convincing myself it could wait. Fast forward to a few weeks…
Tag: self-advocacy
Breaking the Stigma Around Invisible Illness: What You Don’t See Matters
Living with an invisible illness is like navigating life with a secret that no one understands. The world often judges what it can’t see, and that judgment can feel heavier than the illness itself. If you’ve ever faced disbelief, skepticism, or dismissal because your condition isn’t visible, you’re not alone. What Is an Invisible Illness?…
Advocating for Your Health: Navigating Chronic Pain and Your First Doctor’s Appointment
Living with chronic pain or illness can often feel like carrying an invisible weight—a burden that others may not fully understand. For many of us, the journey toward getting proper care begins with that first doctor’s appointment. It’s daunting, especially when you’re not sure if your symptoms will be taken seriously. You might feel overwhelmed,…
Deidre Matthews 