Reflecting on moments of 'why me' during spinal fusion surgery at 16, only to face another health shock with an autoimmune diagnosis two years later, I've often asked the fairness of it all.  I've felt that so much of my adult life has been diverted to taking care of these health conditions, which is serving me well in some regards, but has felt like a part-time job at times. 

March is Autoimmune Disease Awareness month, so what better time to shed light on the fact that these 'silent' conditions can be anything but silent for some of us. Just last year, I found myself with a second autoimmune disease, which demanded significant energy and time to navigate.

It's a reminder that appearances can be deceiving. We don't know what anyone is battling beneath the surface. For me, it's been about self-education, trial and error, and prioritizing a holistic approach to wellness – from caring for my back to mindful choices about what I consume and how I manage stress.  

While we don't have complete control of our health, I've discovered the power of community, much like with scoliosis.  It can be exhausting to constantly justify our energy levels, dietary choices, or mood swings, but I share my journey to let others know they're not alone – I understand the struggle.