To the Boyfriend Whose Girlfriend Has a Chronic Illness

Dear Boyfriend,

Thank you for understanding on the days I can’t get out of bed. And thank you for doing the dishes when I do not have the energy to stand. On the days when I can not make love to you, I’m so sorry. I appreciate every single thing you do for me. Even on the days I don’t express it to you.

I know it sucks when we have plans and we can’t go because I am having a bad day. I know it is terrible when our date day turns into a doctor’s appointment or a trip to the hospital. I know people say I am the strong one, but I think it’s you. It takes a very strong man to care for a woman who sometimes cannot care for herself. I cannot imagine how hard it is to hold me when I’m crying on days when the pain is just to much to bear. The pain you must feel when I’m laying in a hospital bed. How strong you are because you never show me when you’re afraid for me, or hurting yourself.

I’m sorry that sometimes I don’t acknowledge your pain because mine is so bad. I’m sorry that sometimes our life plans are put on hold because I’m sick and that things we want get put on hold because of medical bills. But I want you to know how much I appreciate you and how immensely grateful I am for you, and how very much I love you. And how much I cherish the memories we do make despite my chronic illness. You have a heart of gold and deserve a medal of honor.

We want to hear your story. Become a Mighty contributor here.

Lead photo by Thinkstock Images