07/08/2026
I'm done explaining myself. This is the last time I'm addressing it.
To the people who stare, whisper, judge, or think they've got me figured out...
If you see me taking a few steps one minute and then using a wheelchair the next, please understand this: you are only seeing a tiny moment of my day, not my reality.
I live with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition that doesn't follow rules or a schedule. My symptoms change from minute to minute. One moment I may be able to stand for a few seconds. Another moment I might take a few steps. Then I may suddenly need my crutch, my wheelchair, or complete assistance because my legs simply stop cooperating.
That doesn't make me "faking it." It doesn't make me "not disabled enough." It makes me someone living with a fluctuating neurological condition that most people can't see.
FND affects far more than my legs. It impacts my balance, memory, speech, concentration, vision, energy levels, and causes tremors, weakness, chronic pain, and episodes where my body simply won't do what my brain is asking it to do. Every day is unpredictable.
Then, to add to everything else, I suffered a serious fall that left me with a broken ankle requiring surgery. Unfortunately, my surgery was postponed because the hospital was out of network with my insurance. My doctor has a peer-to-peer review scheduled for July 10, and I'm praying for approval so surgery can finally move forward. Until then, I'm doing everything I can to manage the pain, protect my ankle, and keep my spirits up.
My wheelchair isn't me giving up.
It's my freedom.
My crutch isn't for attention.
It's my stability.
My mobility aids help me stay independent on the days my body refuses to cooperate.
The emotional side of FND is exhausting enough without feeling like I have to prove my disability to complete strangers. Imagine constantly fighting your own body while also being questioned by people who know absolutely nothing about what you're living through.
So before you stare, whisper, or make assumptions, remember that not every disability is visible, and not every disability looks the same every day.
To everyone who has supported me, checked on me, prayed for me, sent encouraging messages, birthday wishes, meals, flowers, or purchased something from my medical recovery wishlist...thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your kindness has carried me through one of the hardest seasons of my life.
For those who have asked how you can help while I wait for surgery and prepare for recovery, my Amazon Medical Recovery Wishlist is here:
https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/KAAGDSCCVQEJ?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_ggr-subnav-share_47CXG5RNRQV48
Every prayer, share, and act of kindness means more than you know.
💙 Please be kind.
💙 Disabilities don't always look the way you expect.
💙 Believe people when they tell you they're struggling.
