I have a myriad of health issues. Two, specifically are on the NORD list (Polycythemia Vera s rare incurable blood cancer and Budd-Chiari Syndrome a liver disease that was how my blood cancer was found). I had a blood clot leading into the hepatic vein into my liver that has caused it to become completely cirrhotic. Some people in the medical field have heard of Polycythemia Vera, but almost no one has heard of Budd-Chiari Syndrome. Some people believe that I am a heavy drinker because they hear the word "cirrhosis." And others listen politely and go on their way. They have no idea what I endure daily. I wish they would research both conditions so that they would understand and we could have a conversation about them. My truth is that I do have several friends and family that have done the research, understand the symptoms and know when I am having a stellar day. My dream is for people who are unfamiliar with other's conditions, to try and put the other person first and learn about them, instead of abandoning you and using the words I wish I would never hear again, "funny, but you don't look sick. #learnaboutme #thinkbeforeyouspeak #watchyourwords

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