My health care experience might not seem extraordinary at first glance. I don’t have cancer, I’m not disabled, and thankfully, I’m not facing any life-threatening conditions. However, it’s the simplicity of my story that makes it resonate — how easily chronic illness can disrupt everyday life, potentially affecting anyone.
In 2014, I celebrated my 24th birthday and embarked on a new job that I loved. I adopted a dog, moved into a new home, and even got married—all within the span of a single summer. But shortly after my husband and I exchanged vows, my life took an unexpected turn; I discovered that 13 years of chronic pain and other troubling symptoms were indications of an incurable condition.
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a subtle yet powerful ailment. It often begins at puberty (for me, it started at age 11) and can take over a person’s life. I had no idea that the cells my body should have been shedding through menstruation were instead implanting outside my uterus, leading to painful lesions, scarring, and overwhelming discomfort that often left me incapacitated. For over a decade, doctors dismissed my symptoms as psychological, telling me it was all “in my head.” Sadly, this response is far too common for women battling this disease.
Upon starting college, I realized I couldn’t continue my studies while living with such debilitating symptoms. The only medication that could somewhat alleviate my severe pelvic pain was birth control. I remember the first time I went to the pharmacy to fill my prescription. Until then, my mother had managed my healthcare expenses, so I was unprepared for the financial reality. The pharmacist informed me my birth control would cost $62. My heart sank—how was I supposed to afford that on a student’s budget?
Before my diagnosis, I had minimal exposure to the healthcare system. I had never been involved in my mother’s medical expenses during her cancer treatment, nor did I understand terms like “insurance premiums” or “deductibles.” But suddenly, at 18, I was thrust into the world of chronic illness, filled with unfamiliar jargon.
The Impact of the Affordable Care Act
Then, in the midst of my college journey, the Affordable Care Act came into effect. Initially, I was skeptical. Why should I have to contribute to someone else’s healthcare? I viewed illness as a personal failing, not realizing how naive I was.
Eventually, I found myself at the pharmacy again, years later, still grappling with chronic pain. To my surprise, I learned that my birth control was now covered at no cost. I was relieved and thankful. “Thanks, ACA!” I thought.
However, my struggles didn’t end there. My symptoms evolved beyond pelvic pain, leading to severe fatigue and digestive issues. My weight dropped alarmingly, and I found myself grappling with a range of new health challenges.
My health journey included countless medical visits, one misdiagnosis after another, and a series of doctors who didn’t take my pain seriously. It wasn’t until I demanded a proper diagnostic procedure that I finally received my endometriosis diagnosis. Unfortunately, the doctor who diagnosed me failed to offer a concrete treatment plan.
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, I was able to seek care from a specialist who understood my condition. I was relieved to find a doctor who prioritized my health and didn’t dismiss my symptoms.
Managing My Condition
As part of managing my endometriosis, I required multiple surgeries. My second surgery coincided with a pivotal moment in American politics. While I lay in the operating room, I couldn’t help but think about the implications of potential changes to the healthcare system.
In the weeks leading up to my surgery, I felt anxious about the financial burden of my medications and treatments. With the ACA, I had some peace of mind, but uncertainty lingered. I opted for an IUD, a decision fraught with risks, but it was one I felt necessary for my well-being.
While recovering from my surgery, I faced the all-too-familiar fear of managing my chronic pain. The thought of not being able to afford my pain medication haunted me. I couldn’t shake the anxiety about the possibility of losing my healthcare coverage.
A Call for Healthcare Access
As someone who has navigated the ups and downs of chronic illness, my concerns extend beyond just myself. I worry about my family members and friends who face their own health challenges. This is why I’m sharing my story—it’s a plea for the protection of healthcare access for all.
I was healthy once, until I learned I wasn’t. This realization underscores my urgent request for Congress to safeguard healthcare for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. In 2017, everyone deserves access to the care they need to thrive.
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In summary, my journey through chronic illness and the healthcare system has been challenging yet revealing. The importance of accessible healthcare cannot be overstated, and it’s crucial for us to advocate for those who need it most.