This was initially published as a Linkedin post. See all my posts on the platform here.
Although now I proudly call #migraine one of my #superpowers as it taught me a lot about my body and myself, made me a very empathetic person and has played a huge role on my #changemaker journey; I still lose days of work, fun and wellness to it.
If I would not be self-employed and in charge of when, how and where I work, living with migraine would still be a huge handicap to me.
I am grateful for the fact that I have been able to design a life that allows me to take care of myself, and leverage the lessons learnt from this debilitating neurological disorder. I am grateful that I have been able to surround myself with people who do not stigmatize me and seek to help me when I can’t help myself.
However, 20 years after my first debilitating attacks, even as I pledged to be an advocate for all of us who live with an invisible disease, if we are talking about work, I still hesitate.
I still catch myself wondering if I should disclose to you why I am massaging my forehead, why I struggle to find my words, why I am slower, less smiley than I usually am. I still wonder if you will trust me if you hear about my condition.
I will do it anyway. Because we must change mindsets. Dear network, please also do your part and look at us with respect and compassion.
