04/07/2024
San Jose CA (3/3) āI think itās a very difficult but good lesson that we, as people with chronic illness, canāt hold on to these diagnoses too hard. Because our health is dynamic, and things change, research changes, and thereās always more information coming. So itās okay to know Iām sick, and I can hold on to the fact that Iām sick. But basing my identity on a diagnosis is not the right move.
Ā
What I truly need is comprehension. Comprehension is the first step, and then the empathy and the support is the second step. If thereās no comprehension, then just throw it all away.
Ā
I have this huge discrepancy between my desire to do things and my capability. I thought that I had come up with an okay vision of what my life could be now. But I have to keep resetting that bar lower because of what Iām capable of doing, and that is heartbreaking. And thatās just because of what my body is capable of doing, what my brain is capable of doing.
Ā
If I could go back, I wouldnāt go back the same way because I would never want to give up what I have learned and gained. The way I connect with people, the way I share, that is such a gem. That is such a gift. If I suddenly had my health, I would want to use what I have learned and find ways to incorporate that into a career that really supports those who need support.ā Cathy