More Than They See

Almost twelve years ago, my life changed forever.

At 22 years old, I had a stroke that left me in a wheelchair, with numbness on my entire left side, speech challenges, ataxia, bladder and bowel issues (meaning I had to take a suppository for 5 years and constant UTIs) and a whole list of coordination problems that doctors rattle off like they're reading a grocery list. 📝

In the beginning, I thought the hardest part would be physical.

But I was wrong.

The hardest part is being seen differently. Being misunderstood. Being talked to like I’m five years old just because I roll instead of walk.

I didn’t lose my intelligence. I didn’t lose my drive.

But somewhere along the way, society seemed to forget who I was.

Professionals often don’understand what I'm going through.

When I fell recently and hit my head, I had all the signs that should have raised alarms—dizziness, disorientation, numbness however it only lasted for 5 minutes. I went to the doctor just in case, like you’re "supposed" to, but trusting the medical system after years of being dismissed feels like playing Russian roulette.🥴

I don't rely on the system.

I trust God. And I trust myself.

And God is working with me so all you have to do is trust in him anyways.

Because at this point? I know my body better than anyone.