Going Public With Illness
03.11.10
I write this blog anonymously to avoid mistreatment at the hands of potential employers and clients, or anyone really. But the truth of the matter is, I live my life very much in public. The majority of the people who know me, know I have this disease. The majority of the people I interact with regularly know.
They know because I told them. And I often worry that when I speak the words, “I have RA,” I’m condemning myself in their own mind. That I’m altering their opinion of me. That’s, of course, if the person or people even understands the disease. Others, just think it’s a play for sympathy, which also alters their opinion of me.
From that perspective, it’s easier to keep secrets. Guard your public image.
Internally, I find it feels better for the people in your life to know your whole truth. And if you’re open about it, people can support you when you need it. Who knows? Maybe you’ll bond with someone over your Chronic status. I did.
But whether you decide to go public or keep it locked down, it’s your decision. You can keep you disease between you and your doctor, or you and the world. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
