There is a particular fear that comes with chronic illness that I think is underrated.
Every single new symptom, every single new severity of a common symptom, every minor change is terrifying.
We are constantly in the woods.
Every scan, every monthly or weekly blood test, every procedure, every yearly checkup is nerve-wracking. Even if we are feeling decent or even a little bit better, those tests may show something that is currently happening in our body that we were not expecting.
That is what is so frightening.
Invisible disease.
Sometimes the sufferer has no clue what is really going on under the surface.
The moment those symptoms first hit, there is this life-long fight that no one voluntarily signs up for. Constantly fighting and wondering. Eternally frightened.
I know that the risks of chronic disease are often downplayed - that chronic illness is not often considered dangerous. That is an idea that is long overdue for an overhaul.
I wonder if the general public began to research the complications of certain chronic illnesses. The complications are common, they come and go, and many chronic illnesses are progressive, so they become worse and worse and worse over time. Not for everyone, but for the majority.
I guess it's a good thing I usually feel pretty comfortable in the woods... because that is where I live (figuratively). One foot out the door ready to go to the ER at all times. Physicians and specialists on speed dial. Consistently monitoring hundreds of symptoms - watching for changes.
Chronic illness means always being in the woods. At all times. One symptom away from mortal danger. One missed medication away from requiring a year of recuperation.
Every chronic illness sufferer is a badass. Just saying. And someone who loves the woods. ;)
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