Tag: POTS

I have been stolen

Robbed of my dignity, I no longer flinch

When the doctors examine every inch of me

I have been stolen

Not quite the “sick girl” I used to be

It’s getting worse but it’s been so long, no one wants to see

Unless of course, I am their inspiration for the day

I have been stolen

But they applaud me because I keep going

Strong and brave, these are not compliments

I have quite literally no choice

I have been stolen

Of my right to grieve the loss of my health

The loss of my dignity

The loss of my identity

“You make your illness your identity”

But when I smile and pretend that my body is not on fire

Or that it’s no big deal when my skin turns purple

And I forget my own name

I am praised for the person “I am”

Strong and brave

I have been stolen

Robbed of my dignity, I no longer flinch

When people roll their eyes in disbelief

I have been stolen 

My right to exist without my existence 

Being an object for critique

“She shouldn’t let it get to her.” over and over until I learn how to change the narrative to

“She is so strong. I don’t know how she does it.”

As if there is glory in suffering

As if diminishing or praising it will protect you

I have been stolen

By diseases that do not discriminate

I have been stolen

And though I wish this upon no one

I wish for just a moment

You too could be stolen