Endless Pokes I got normal lab results again recently. It was just a CBC with differential. Nothing big. But still another poke. I'm used to labs by now. I can tell the phlebotomist exactly where to poke me for the best access (the back of my hands, towards the outside). "And when it likely fails, … Continue reading The Hidden Curse: The Illusion of ‘Normal’ Lab Results
24 Hours in an ER
In 2019 I thought I’d keep track of the cost of chronic illness, or at least mine, for a year. Keep in mind this year I was pretty stable AND I’ve gone a whole year without an ER visit and anaphylaxis. Winning!! The last time I went a whole year without an ER visit was … Continue reading The Cost of Chronic Illness
Let's make one thing clear out of the gate: I hate wearing this stupid mask. But because I have a fragrance allergy and sensitivity, and my lungs are so sensitive to air quality--I wear it. The mask helps filter out them out. I currently have a Cambridge mask and it supposed to help filter out … Continue reading The Mask: Life with Fragrance Allergy and Sensitivity
I live life on the edge. The edge of an allergic reaction. The edge of medical science. The edge of an unknown, looming, black abyss. The edge of fear. The edge of faith. I’m not an “edge” type of girl. I am terrified of falling. Heights have always scared me. I have always clung to the known, the safe, the solid. I don’t have that luxury anymore.
