If you’re navigating life with an invisible illness, I understand your struggles. Here’s a gentle challenge for you: become that squeakier wheel. And for those who know someone like this, your support is crucial.
Superwoman, I recognize your incredible pain tolerance and your ability to juggle countless responsibilities. You may even look fabulous while doing it, which can mislead people into thinking you’re doing just fine. This facade can hinder your access to proper care, whether you’re already diagnosed or still searching for answers.
Take my friend Sarah, for instance. She battled multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms for years without a proper diagnosis. Her medical appointments often went like this: “It’s just menopause.” “You might have carpal tunnel.” “You look great!” (Students affectionately called her Wonder Woman, after all.) “Oh, you have a neuroma in your foot.”
Doctors, listen up: A woman who has endured natural childbirth knows pain. When she describes her “tingling” as feeling like she slapped her hands hard, it’s not just from typing away on a computer. If she says walking hurts as if her feet are wedged into tiny shoes, she doesn’t need better footwear or surgery for a “foot issue.” I understand unnecessary tests happen, but please recognize when it’s time to dig deeper.
Now, back to you, Superwoman. This isn’t a call to panic or rush to the doctor. It’s about those persistent symptoms and that gut feeling telling you something isn’t right, even if you manage to keep everything running smoothly. Trust yourself. And when you finally realize you need to voice your concerns, don’t hold back out of a sense of duty to others. My friend Sarah waited until her kids were grown before seeking the diagnosis she suspected—either a brain tumor or MS.
There’s often a mix of denial and hope that things will improve if we just keep pushing through quietly. Sarah might be out and about with her stylish canes, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t in pain. She fears a day might come when she can’t walk at all.
The reality is this: she’s started to speak up but feels unheard. During one doctor’s appointment, she boldly stated she didn’t believe she was receiving the same quality of care as the doctor would provide for his own wife. He was taken aback but insisted he was committed to her care and sent her home with no new solutions.
If you’re hesitating to voice your concerns because you feel trapped, keep talking anyway! Even if your words come out a bit confrontational, suggesting treatments you’ve read about is not a sign of disrespect towards medical professionals. Ultimately, we all share the goal of healing, right? By continuing the conversation, you may connect with resources and individuals who can support you in ways you never anticipated. We’re already here for you.
Superwoman, now is your moment! Let’s turn the focus to you. One, two, three… Go.
Note: I aimed this message at women because I identify as one and feel most comfortable addressing this experience from that perspective.
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In summary, it’s essential to be your own advocate when dealing with an invisible illness. Don’t shy away from expressing your concerns, and remember that you’re not alone in this journey.