Anyone ever tell you, "But you don't look sick?"

[TMJLady]

Like so many of you, my painful conditions are not visible to most. I have a long scar but it isn't something most would see unless I pointed it out. But my pain is as real as if I were covered in swollen bruises and gruesome cuts. I go on, every day, smiling, laughing, talking, working, being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, business woman....with pain as my constant companion.  My pain management medications make that possible. Without them, the pain would be too much to bear. Maybe then, with tear stained cheeks, bloodshot sleepless eyes, and a pained expression, I would "look sick" enough for those who doubt or simply don't understand. I refuse to give into those small minded people who have so little compassion.
If you encounter this hurtful reaction in your journey, I suggest you show them this.  "The Spoon Theory" by Christine Miserandino .  She has Lupus but it is the same for all of us who have had to learn to live with chronic pain as our constant companion.
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/#sthash.S9Oblo0v

[hunterinthehouse]

I also have encountered this "discrimination" I am on disability and have been for almost 20 years.  I am 62 now and still get those comments, many from my own family members, my own mother called me a hypochondriac.  My injuries are in my back and right leg.  Unless I pull up my shirt to shoe surgery scars, which I don't do as I don't have to prove anything to anyone.  We know how we feel.

[Grreatful]

Thank you for that uplifting reminder.  I've never read the book but I think I'll have to, I think it would help me.  I know just finding this site, and people who are going through the same things I am going through helps immensely, just to know I'm not alone anymore.  

[Tuckamore]

Thank you for reminding the Community of "The Spoon Theory."  It's an excellent way to explain Chronic Pain - and so true of what it does to our life.

The Spoon Theory has been posted here several times. I'm an "old timer here and sometimes forget that we constantly add new members - members that haven't read or even heard of the Spoon Theory. It's just one reason why new members like yourself are so very welcome. You bring information such as this to other new members.  

I thank you!

And if I have heard, "You look so good" once I've heard in a thousand times. It use to make me angry because as you know how you look doesn't always reflect how you feel.

If you are over thirty you may recall that old song that says in part, "It's not how you feel - it's how you look - and you look marvelous."  I think of that old song when someone comments on how good I look -  when I think the pain may just be the death of me that particular day!  ;o)

Again, thanks for sharing!

~Tuck