Send Me More Stories About Disability
There’s this concept of ‘chosen family’ that refers to people you surround yourself with who support you. It’s a big concept in the LGBTQ community, where many people feel isolated from their biological families, but chosen family is equally important to the disabled and chronic illness communities for the same reason.
This week, we asked members of Folks’ Twitter community what their favorite thing about the chronic illness and disability community was. What many of the answers we received touched on was this concept of ‘chosen family’ and how much online communities can help support someone who is dealing with a life-changing illness or condition.
Also, this week we’re asking our followers: “What’s something you never thought you could accomplish when you were diagnosed, but which you successfully do now?” We’d love to hear your thoughts, so follow Folks on Twitter (@folksstories) and let us know! We’ll post our best answers next week.
What's your favorite thing about the #chronicillness and #Disability community? @BeingCharisBlog @farrahgarland @ChronicFinance @crippledscholar @MortuaryReport @serenebutterfly @spwarriortweets @Imani_Barbarin @annehenshaw79 @SFdirewolf @fabledcreature_ @JenniferLerner1
— @folksstories (@folksstories) February 16, 2018
A community of people who totally understand what it's like to live with chronic illness.
When I say I'm having a bad day I don't get useless advice or bullying, I get care and understanding. And good advice.
It's the greatest club on Earth! #SpoonieFamily— Jed Finley (@JediMaster941) February 17, 2018
The knowing that we arent alone. That we have people on our team out there in a world that isnt.
Also the ability to share notes helps sometimes where doctors, psychologists, etc fail.
— SuchFinanceWow♿ (@ChronicFinance) February 16, 2018
The feeling of acceptance. Not feeling judged or isolated because of our conditions or the symptoms that we endure. Knowing that we are not alone, and having others whom we can be truthful; not needing to hide how we are really feeling or putting on a brave face as we often do
— Rhiann Johns (@serenebutterfly) February 16, 2018
The feeling of community, shared experiences, empathy, and validation. I learn so much from every Spoonie I talk to.
Also, having people I can vent to and commiserate with is invaluable. It's amazing to know you aren't alone in your struggles.
— Spoonie Warrior (@spwarriortweets) February 16, 2018
Finally finding others who understand the truth. Validation when I find somebody who has walked the road that I walked, that same road that I was forced to live without desperately needed supportive services because I was told it wasn't real. Strength in numbers.
— Fabled Creature (@fabledcreature_) February 16, 2018
Having an empathetic & supportive network. Folks who truly understand my experience. How we support one another wo judgment. That feeling of being seen, being heard, being understood, & not being alone.
(I also love the opportunity to learn more abt rare conditions)
— Farrah Kaeser (@farrahgarland) February 16, 2018
Simply talking with people from all walks of life has brought me comfort and peace to know that I am not alone. I have gained a better understanding of myself and my own struggle through talking with others. Often times leading to Aha moments of profound clarity and reassurance.
— Effie (@RisingAboveRa) February 17, 2018
The simple fact that I have found a part of my tribe so to speak, of like-minded people who not only understand, sympathize, offer support, a listening ear and advice but most importantly, show empathy- which not many can give if they aren’t in your shoes.
— Effie (@RisingAboveRa) February 17, 2018
No longer feeling alone or crazy like the doctors and our friends/family make us out to be!
— ChronicallySherry (@SickSicklySher) February 17, 2018
Additional reporting by Josh Andrew.
Creative Commons photo by Lindsey Turner.
