Is that supposed to be a compliment?  I guess it depends upon who you're talking to.

It's hard for me to express my true feelings when the inevitable response is, "But you look so good!"  Ummm, thanks?  I sometimes wonder why people bother asking how I am.  Apparently I look fantastic!  That being said, I guess I can't fault them.  After all, the people in my life must care about me; otherwise they wouldn't keep asking how I'm doing. 

I appreciate their concern, I really do.  It's just sometimes I wish my condition showed; like a broken arm in a cast. 

Get The Balance Right

Having a chronic condition that no one can see presents a very unique challenge.  It's a situation many people face; not only those with heart disease, but also those who suffer from other chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia.

Like anything, there must be a positive side to having an invisible illness.  After all, it's completely up to you how much you divulge as to how you are feeling.  That's a definite plus.  Some days I just don't feel like dealing, you know?  Other days, when my closest friends surround me, I feel more at ease to talk at length about this stupid disease.

Of course, as mentioned at the outset, there is a flip side.  I guess what's important is striking a balance unique to your situation.

Is Seeing Believing?

Not when it comes to heart disease; but that's ok.  Perhaps at this point I should quit worrying about what other people think and focus more on helping them understand.  Perhaps this will work:

Dear Friends and Family;

Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it doesn't exist.

Love, Rebecca

Rebecca Fortunato

http://rebeccasheart.wordpress.com