You with the cane and arthritic hands, who has to ask for non-childlock caps on their medications lest they are unable to open them. Who has banged too many jars against counter tops trying to pop the seal to count. Who uses scissors to open everything possible, and rubs their knees when it rains. I see you.
You who has to wear diapers at night to keep their sheets dry, or during the day for incontinence. You who knows the best brands, which show through clothing the least, what stores have the best deals. I see you.
You with the cannula, wheeling your oxygen around, sitting on benches and leaning against walls, trying to catch your breath. I see you.
You with the catheter, who knows exactly how large your bladder is and how much you can drink, and has cathed themselves too many times to count.
You with the ostomy pouch, who knows just how to hide it but might be shy to wear a bathing suit. Who has become a pro at cleaning their skin and stoma. Who knows exactly what sorts of foods your body has trouble digesting. I see you.
You with the discolored or missing teeth, who is afraid to smile big. Who is terrified of judging by dentists, or expensive bills. Who winces when they see their mouth in photos, or has been ridiculed to have their mouth. I see you.
If you have memory problems, if you have rashes, if you have too many pills to count up without paper, if your hands shake, if your knees are weak, if you’ve been told you’re “Too young” to live with your illness or symptoms: I see you.
You are not too young. You are not gross. I see you, and you are valid.
