I am worth it.

I am cheerful, curious, strong, and unique. But I can also be desperate, weak, and sad.

What does it feel like to live with chronic illnesses? I was simply thrust into it. It has taken a lot of strength. Dr. Google, my medical studies. Many doctors who didn’t understand. I often lay there crying from pain. Powerful pain infusions that didn’t help. I couldn’t understand the world anymore. Why must one endure this, again and again? Having to explain myself repeatedly: “But you don’t look sick.” Countless moments in the emergency room, begging for help.

In the good moments, I ran out into the world, fearless. I experienced beautiful travels and encounters. Amazing nature. Exciting islands—oh, I particularly love those. Yet, this also involved unexpected, often wild hospital stays around the world. There I was suddenly—on the floor, in the cinema, in the subway, on strangers’ couches, in the meadow on a mountain, in an ambulance, in a helicopter. But in between—oh, in between, it was all the more wonderful.

Right now, I am tired. Very tired. Again, time, patience, and acceptance are needed. Even here, I find a way. With wonderful people who support me, even if they don’t always understand.

I am open about it. It is part of me. And yes—happy, despite it all.

I am worth it.