#invisible disability
I’ve been dealing with EDS, have had 2 surgeries in 1 year, have been trying to get through a class with post-concussion Syndrome, am trying to graduate, have been sexually asualted and been going through an investigation, and have been dealing with COVID-19 all in this pat year. I am struggling, but I can do this.
With my medical issues, I lost a lot of friends. It took me forever to find my people, but I found 3 girls who change my life. During this quarantine, I am missing them greatly, but I am reminded how lucky I am to have them. One of my best friends chats me every day and let’s me know she loves me. She even sends songs she’s listening to. Another friend FaceTimed me for an hour and a half last night. And today I got a package from my friend with a stuffed animal and a note.
My point is, it takes time to find your people, but when you do, they go above and beyond.
Are you a disabled kid between the ages 7-17 in the US? Do you know one you can pass this on to? I’m starting a project called “Portraits for Disabled Kids” Fill out the application here
My name is Michaela Oteri and I’m a 30 year old disabled artist who specializes in portraits. You can see my work at http://ogrefairy.com I am trying to give a solid and fun representation to disabled kids from all over the United States. If chosen you will also receive $50!
3 kids ages 7-12 and 3 kids ages 13-17 will be selected. Priority will be given to disabled Black, Indigenous, and kids of color. The portraits and audio from interviews will be posted on a stand alone website and will not be used for commercial purposes.
The application will close on April 15th so be sure to apply soon!
ID under read more
[ID: Two digital drawings. The first is a kid in t shirt and shorts. They have tan skin and brown hair and are holding a corn snake. Beside them are pillars with snakes and fire on top. Behind them are more pillars and flames. The second kid is white with brown short hair that is shaved on one side. They are wearing big comfy clothes. Their shirt is baby pink and has stars and moons on it. They are wearing a backpack that has a baby yoda sticking out. Behind them are threes with sloths hanging from them. On the ground are some ferrets and they are wearing matching ferret slippers.]
We feel like we have to project this image of disabled and chronically ill people being so brave. Like they’re such heroes because of everything they go through without complaining. And it’s true that we’re cool, but sometimes I’m sick of it. Sometimes I don’t want to be seen as someone brave or tough, even by myself. I cried for hours today because the pain just got so bad, and afterwards I found myself apologising to my family. Screw that. Why was that my first reaction? I want it to be okay for me to have days when I’ve had enough of it, to just cry and be sad and angry and frustrated because it’s not bloody fair. To not constantly worry that I’m a burden to everyone around me. Sure, I like making people smile, I think it’s good to be sunshine when you can’t find any, but I’m sick of insisting it’s not raining. I like to inspire people and do good where I can, but I am not your inspiration. That’s not my sole purpose. I didn’t choose this. I don’t owe it to anyone to turn this into some kind of origin story. Some days I just need to frickin survive and know it’s ok to not be ok and cry without apologising for it and be mad without feeling guilty because this is not my fault
Just sayin….
Which body part? How much time do you have? Are you prepared to not make fun of me if I say “everything”, but can’t really tell which pain is the worst? Can I use the words ‘diffuse’ and 'vague’? Can I list what’s not hurting right now? That would be easier… It’ll probably change in like 2 seconds anyway…
