I was scolded by teachers, my mother, and friends’ parents for my klutziness.
Yet every doctor I saw treated my frequent injuries as one-off events. My fragile skin splits open if you look at it wrong. I still have nerve damage in my armpits from my many stints on crutches.
My skin is usually decorated with bruises of unknown origin.ĭoctors diagnosed me with Sever’s Disease, cellulitis, tendonitis, spondylolisthesis, frostbite, fibromyalgia - all before finishing high school. I’m notorious for bumping into door jambs and dropping fragile objects. My ankles have a tendency to twist, violently and suddenly, sending me crashing to the ground. Since childhood, I’ve had this nagging feeling there was something wrong with my body.
This essay includes subject matter that may be difficult or sensitive for some readers, including depression and suicidal thoughts. Share on Pinterest Illustration by Alyssa Kiefer
