My Voice Matters

Have you ever been told that what you’re feeling isn’t real? Sadly, that’s something I’ve experienced far too often as someone living with a disability and chronic illness. I’ve been hearing that message since I was a child.

It started in preschool. I remember being told I was lying about needing to use the bathroom, even though I really had to go. I was being honest, but the adults who were supposed to listen and protect me didn’t believe me.

As I got older, the pattern continued. In middle school, I told my teacher the same thing, and she accused me of lying. I ended up having an accident, and only then did she realize she was wrong. That kind of dismissal didn’t stop there. It carried on into doctors’ offices, where I often found myself unheard or brushed off.

As a Black woman with a disability and chronic illness, I’ve been ignored more times than I can count. One time, I was getting a new prosthetic eye and I was in a lot of pain. I told the doctor, but he didn’t believe me. My mom had to take me to another doctor who actually listened.

Another time, I went to the dentist for a root canal. I told her I could feel the drill and wasn’t numb enough, but she didn’t believe me. I had to go see another dentist to get the care I needed.

Over and over again, the same thing kept happening.

It’s so important for medical professionals to truly listen to their patients. We know our bodies better than anyone else. We know what we feel, and we deserve to be heard. And my voice matters!

Have you ever had a time when a doctor ignored your symptoms or brushed you off? I want to hear your stories. The more we speak up, the more we can hold people accountable and bring real change.

~CR