Just thought I'd pass on something pretty significant that I realized recently.
My Vitiligo is not as extensive or noticeable as it is for many, but it's still bothered me emotionally and for many years has impacted both my activities (avoiding sun) and my enthusiasm for life in general. Being a part of this network has made a very real change in how I feel--one that became apparent as I did a lot of travel over the last two months for work. I found that I was no longer worried about people seeing my hands, but that I actually kind of hoped that they would so I could talk about my Vitiligo. And that I actually began to feel a little pride (the positive kind) again about myself. And this is during a time when the Vitiligo on my face has actually been increasing.
I know--I started the network, so it seems I'm a little slow or late to the "love yourself as you are" party. And even though some great members here had made this transition from hating their Vitiligo to accepting it to then being proud of it, I don't think I really had until lately.
So, if you're like me, and that acceptance has been slow to come, or you're feeling discouraged, I hope you'll accept some words of encouragement from me on this front. That is is possible to feel differently about your Vitiligo.
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Sometimes I feel hurt by some inconsiderate comments but for the most part I feel comfortable in my own skin. I go about my daily buisness running errands, job, dinner with the Mrs. My vitiligo has consumed my whole body...but not my spirit. I take each day as it comes.
At first I thought it was over medication due to a bad car accident which left me partially paralized for about 2 months. I struggled but I took my rehab pretty serious so I could go back to work. I took lots of pain meds and anti-biotics. Then I had a heart attack at 44 that knocked me for a loop. More meds and surgery.
I believe that in my case it is hereditary. I had counseling and if it weren't for that I wouldn't have the tools to confront or realize other peoples short comings and insults. Especially the insults that triggers my anger.
Maybe I just too stubborn to let it bother me but then again maybe I have learned to live life with honor, dignity and pride. I know its sounds somewhat conceited but without a positive attitude my self doubt would live my life for me...and that will never happen.
Great one Steve, I totally agree with you. I hardly remember my Vit now except when my attention is called to it. I feel that it has lot to do on being occupied and loving what you are doing, you will be more concerned about getting things done than worrying.
Am loving above all the attention I get (stares) though its becoming less as what I present these days is a babe that just have to be admired...lol
Jeff I understand you so very well, in as much as am not bothered anymore I still do my medications religiously, but never really thought of it staying or going completely someday. Am just loving and living each day as it comes
We all want a cure, if not for us for the generation to come and we shall achieve it I believe if we put our mind to it, but for now its all about living life to the full irrespective of Vitiligo.
Nice inspiring message Steve...I wish i had your strength, cause I'm not sure if I can ever get to accept it. I WANT A CURE, period, point blank! Until I find one, I will fight with every pigment cell in me to figure this condition out, and get the color back on my face.
I agree and understand. It was, in fact, a surprise to me when I realized what had happened. I think I was so exhausted from so much travel that I didn't even recognize the change until I had a moment or two of down time.
Fight on! And, hopefully, you'll have a similar experience some day.
Hey, we need to get that Sacramento / Bay Area meet-up planned! Been cold enough for you!!??
Replies
At first I thought it was over medication due to a bad car accident which left me partially paralized for about 2 months. I struggled but I took my rehab pretty serious so I could go back to work. I took lots of pain meds and anti-biotics. Then I had a heart attack at 44 that knocked me for a loop. More meds and surgery.
I believe that in my case it is hereditary. I had counseling and if it weren't for that I wouldn't have the tools to confront or realize other peoples short comings and insults. Especially the insults that triggers my anger.
Maybe I just too stubborn to let it bother me but then again maybe I have learned to live life with honor, dignity and pride. I know its sounds somewhat conceited but without a positive attitude my self doubt would live my life for me...and that will never happen.
Am loving above all the attention I get (stares) though its becoming less as what I present these days is a babe that just have to be admired...lol
Jeff I understand you so very well, in as much as am not bothered anymore I still do my medications religiously, but never really thought of it staying or going completely someday. Am just loving and living each day as it comes
We all want a cure, if not for us for the generation to come and we shall achieve it I believe if we put our mind to it, but for now its all about living life to the full irrespective of Vitiligo.
Fight on! And, hopefully, you'll have a similar experience some day.
Hey, we need to get that Sacramento / Bay Area meet-up planned! Been cold enough for you!!??