It’s been almost a year and a half since I’ve made the decision to advocate for diabetes. I’ve never would have imagined that diabetes would take me on this path in this space at this time.
Yesterday, I’ve found myself contemplating my purpose in advocacy. Why do I advocate even though I am still in the early phases of this illness?
Who am I doing this for and why?
Then it hit me while getting my walking steps in at a nearby track and field. I advocate for those who feel that they’ve been forgotten and neglected by their family, friends, their healthcare team and legislature. I do what I do to remind those on the chronic illness journey that they are not forgotten, they are respected and they are heard. Even though I am still going through difficulties with this illness, I continue to use my voice, my fingers, my pen and my presence to stand in the gap on their behalf and mine.
This is why I advocate. This is why I will continue to fight. This is why I am in this space in this place at this moment.
Today is the first day of Chronic Disease Month and I encourage you to take a stand and raise awareness on learning more about those who are on the journey. Here are some ways you can help:
Share your own story!
Learn more about the different conditions and the issues that many of us with chronic illness face.
Write letters to lawmakers about passing legislation that will allow us to have access to affordable care and medicine.
Speak out on discrimination based on our chronic illness in schools, hospitals and the workplace.
Do something kind for someone you know with chronic illness just because.
Chronic illness can happen to anyone at anytime. We don’t wish anyone to go through what we do, but in the unfortunate event that it does, we want to have access to the best care, the best treatment and equal opportunities.
Help the chronic illness community be seen and heard!