They Say

They say “It’s not like cancer” what the hell is that suppose to mean?
Some of us take chemo, believe me, it’s not as easy as it seems.

They say, “It isn’t terminal, it’s not like you’re going to die.”
I wonder what they’d say if they knew how many times I’ve tried.

So often I hear, “I thought you’d be well by today.”
Honestly, people do you really think I’d want to live this way?

I’ve been called lazy, hypochondriac and thought a fool.
I never realized those words could really feel that cruel.

I have an incurable disease that doctors don’t understand what it is.
An invisible autoimmune disease that’s called Ankylosing Spondylitis.

I try so hard to explain only to get that usual blank stare.
It often makes me wonder do they even really care.

I get a lot of “you don’t look sick” so people assume I fake.
I wish they understood just how much energy everything takes.

They tell me to smile, be positive, stand tall and stay strong,
But it’s so hard to when no one understands what is really wrong.

Sometimes I feel hopeless while waiting for a cure
Society makes me feel that chronic is the new dirty word.

Some make me feel worthless and only taking up space.
I find myself wishing for a day, they could take my place.

If you ever meet any of us and you’re not sure what to say
You only need to be sincere when you ask “how are you today.”