Chronic illness can manifest both visibly and invisibly. While many associate chronic illness with conditions like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, it can also include less visible struggles such as depression, nerve pain, and migraines. These unseen conditions often go unnoticed but are equally impactful.
As a center for independent living, we aim to assist individuals facing all types of disabilities, whether visible or not, without judgment. We recognize that everyone’s experience is unique, and our role is to offer support, not to assume what others are going through.
For example, I personally live with chronic illness and face daily challenges that aren’t visible to others. Every day, I manage pain and symptoms that affect my mobility, but I continue to work, smile, and engage with others despite the internal struggles, including anxiety, depression, and overthinking.
To illustrate the impact of chronic illness, consider the “spoon theory.” A person without chronic illness might start their day with 20 spoons, each representing a unit of energy. Simple tasks like showering or driving to work use up spoons. Someone with chronic illness, however, may start the day with only 10 spoons, and every task consumes more energy, leaving them with limited spoons for the rest of the day. For me, managing my chronic illness can mean starting the day with just 5 spoons, and by the time I complete my responsibilities, I often end up in the negative.
Despite these challenges, I am grateful to be part of a center that understands and supports individuals with chronic illnesses. Many staff members here are empathetic to the struggles we face, and resources such as fidgets are available to help manage stress. It’s important to know that you are not alone, and support is always available for those who need it.
Jami Peterson
Low Vision Coordinator