You're Not Imagining It

At what point did you stop doubting yourself and start trusting your own experience of your body? Was there a moment, or did it happen gradually?

What's the most dismissive thing a healthcare professional has said to you — and how did you respond, or wish you had?

A script for when doctors dismiss you

I've started using this in appointments: 'I understand you may not have a diagnosis for me today. What I need is for this symptom to be documented in my notes, and to discuss what …

It took 11 years to get diagnosed. Eleven years of being told it was anxiety, stress, deconditioning, 'just' this, 'just' that. The diagnosis didn't give me my health back but it g…

Tips for advocating for yourself in appointments

Bring a written list. Record the appointment if legal in your area. Bring someone with you if you can. Use the phrase "I need you to document that I raised this concern." Ask "what…

A doctor finally believed me and I sobbed

After six years of appointments where I left feeling crazy, I saw a new specialist last week. She listened for 45 minutes. She said "I believe you, this is real, and here's what we…