Invisible Illness Week Unites Us
Next week, September 8 - September 12. people who have a chronic illness will be able to unite online to listen and ask questions of speakers about living with invisible illnesses. Lisa Copen, the founder of Rest Ministries, also coordinates National Invisible Chronic Illness Week. She has Rheumatoid Arthritis and does all she can to provide support and information to those of us who feel isolated and very often misunderstood.
I am one of those misunderstood people. Although I have multiple chronic illnesses and have times when I can’t put two thoughts together, or get out of bed, people tell me that I look great. I hear it so often that I just am programmed to say thank you. I know they mean well. And it is a compliment to be told that I look good, but when you’re feeling like the bottom of someone’s shoe, it kind of rubs me the wrong way.
Do you get it? You probably don’t if you don’t have an invisible illness. Please join in for Invisible Illness Week. You can learn how it feels to be one of us or get the support you may need.
Thank you so much for your comments on my blog. I hadn’t had a chance to check yours yet before this, so it’s great to visit another wonderful site.
Jenni Saake - InfertilityMom’s last blog post..My “Other” Invisible Illness
Connie, About when someone sees us out of bed and says that we look good and they’re glad we’re feeling better”–you expressed the discomfort we feel so well!
Today while I was laying in bed a very well meaning relative called and said, “You sound great. I hear you’re better”. I was tongue tied….”aaaa, yes, ah, well, hanging in there yes, life’s good”. That was my brilliant (not) response.
Connie do you mind if I write a post to your blog that links straight to this post? What a great intro. to National Invisible Chronic Illness Week!
Kerry’s last blog post..Never for Granted Again
Ya I’m going to particpate. I already submitted a blog post for the week.