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Cushing's Awareness Challenge - Day 4

I have often said, I wish I had cancer instead.  Most people would not understand this sentiment, why in the world would you wish for such a horrible disease?  

It is another common thread tying people with chronic illness together. If my disease was cancer, everyone would know what it was.  I wouldn't be questioned by my boss when I called in sick.  My friends and family would be more supportive.  My doctors wouldn't question my symptoms.

Maybe my life would be easier.

But, maybe this would not be true.  I am not looking to find out.  Chronic illness is lonely.  It seems, from the outside, that cancer is not.  Most people know someone with cancer.  Most people know what cancer involves.  Endless appointments, surgeries, maybe even chemotherapy or radiation.  Cancer is life threatening. Did you know that a lot of chronic illnesses involve all of the same things?  

With Cushing's, a lot of people have multiple surgeries.  I have had 3 directly related to Cushing's, and may have to have more in the future.  Of course, you know that there is a huge time commitment to having a chronic illness.  Lab tests, imaging, appointments, days spent in bed.  Also similar to cancer.

I am currently taking a chemotherapy drug for Lupus. I may need radiation in the future for my pituitary tumor if it grows back. I have known more than one person who has died as a result of Cushing's.


Not so different now, right? 


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