Chronic illness is often overlooked by society, hidden beneath the surface.
In the past, before I had a diagnosis, I believed my physical discomfort was due to dehydration and a lack of fitness. I saw chronic illness as something that happened to other people, not me. However, on Christmas Eve 2014, a neurologist confirmed that I had relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis after examining my M.R.I. scans. This type of disease is characterized by unpredictable flare-ups and periods of remission. It was a life-altering moment, as I realized that my dreams of being an artist and living an unconventional lifestyle were now uncertain. Four months later, I began treatment, receiving high-dose intravenous steroids and monthly infusions to block immune cells from entering my brain and spinal cord.
Fortunately, my treatment has been successful, and I have remained in a state of remission by following the recommended regimen. However, even after nine years of managing this illness, I still grapple with its chronic nature. Every decision I make is influenced by my need for continuous medical care. My illness has become the guiding force in my life, dictating my routine and creative work. It has transformed my body into a clock, aligned with the cycle of my infusions. I use this experience as inspiration, documenting my illness and care through photography.
During my time in the infusion suite, where I receive treatment, my body and mind become vessels of knowledge. As the medical drip flows through my body, my mind absorbs information from the staff. I am constantly reminded of my aunt, who has lived with progressive multiple sclerosis without access to advanced care. Her situation starkly highlights the importance of healthcare access for everyone. We all exist on a spectrum of illness, yet our culture often shies away from discussing the reality of being sick, fostering shame among those who are chronically ill.
Despite the challenges, I choose to focus on the advancements in multiple sclerosis treatment and the opportunities they present. This is the best time in history to live with the disease, thanks to innovative therapies. However, the political and social aspects cannot be ignored. Being sick carries political implications, and navigating the healthcare system can be exhausting. Patient education and advocacy have been vital to my own healthcare journey.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the threat of losing access to care looms for many, with renewed calls to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. The current healthcare system remains inadequate and unsustainable, leaving vulnerable populations at risk. It is essential to address the personal and artistic aspects of chronic illness as well. By bringing visibility to these experiences through art, we can challenge the silence surrounding pain, loss, and the flaws in our healthcare system.
Political responses to the crisis of care are crucial, but individual and artistic responses also play a significant role. What if chronic illness, often ignored by society, became a more prominent subject in art? By shedding light on these experiences, we can foster greater empathy and understanding for those living with chronic illness.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
