To whom it may concern, 

I woke up scared on Wednesday, that my illness and disability would not be validated, that I would not be able to get the medical care that I need in the coming years. I have already fought my insurance so many times just to get the medication that I need, and I am lucky. I am lucky to be in a privileged position where I am able to afford the doctors and medicine that I need, and I have the ability to fight for it. Others are not so lucky. As it stands, too many Americans are unable to get the medical care that they need. Whether it is being able to see specialists, run tests or afford ER visits, too many people suffer because they cannot afford the necessary tests and medicine that they need. This is inexcusable. 

As sufferers of invisible illnesses and chronic pain, our voices need to be loud and clear in the next 4 years. We are heading into a political climate where we are looked upon as weak, as people who just take from the system, regardless of our pain or our inability to function. Now more than ever, we must speak up and we must force others to see our pain. We will not be invalidated, and we will not be marginalized. 

Regardless of political affiliations, race, gender, sexuality or anything else, it is important that we continue to raise awareness and rally for our rights. I've been thinking more and more about my own future this week. I realized that I love being able to voice my opinions, and to help others feel like their voices are being heard as well. The reason why I started this blog was to help others feel like they are not alone, but this week it has become apparent that I am doing so much more. I plan to be a voice that talks about issues that America does not like hearing about. Listening to accounts of pain and illness scare many, as it reminds them how they too are susceptible to illness at any time. This is why it is so important that we continue to support everyone. My fight is not just limited to migraines, even though that is how I personally fit into the puzzle. It will take all of us, everyone in the spoonie community, to affect change. Whether it's about the prescription of opioids, lessening harassment and hate crimes of people with physical disabilities, or fighting to make sure that everyone has equal access to healthcare, it involves all of us. We are all responsible for shaping how this nation's healthcare will be shaped in policy. We know about the red tape, the corruption, the defeat that goes into navigating this system. I hope to be someone who will affect this change, and I'm hoping that you all will support me and also yourselves in this fight as well. We are strong, but we are stronger together. Every action counts. I know that this is much more politicized than any of my past posts, but I felt that it was important to address this, regardless of political affiliations. 

As always, have an amazing, migraine-free week.