Chronic Illness In The News

Some stories are too good not to share, so we anonymize them here, especially when a card is popular in different test groups. A person standing, wearing black pants, a tie, and a red vest, with an analog clock for a head. When I first created this image, I laughed out loud at the weirdness—and familiarity—of the uniform and the clock. First, about that red vest and black pants. Oof. Those reminded me of being a NYC student, waiting tables across from busy Lincoln Center. I

Who can you honestly talk to about living in the goldfish-bowl of isolation that is chronic illness? Here's how to decide.

Medical dramas can highlight Americans health realities, whether that be workplace violence or Long COVID, which affects a disproportinate number of frontliners. This winter, when the third season of the Pitt airs, I'm betting COVID (as well as other viruses and vaccine controversies) will be all over the news. Medical storytelling, whether through shows like The Pitt or the classic ER, are a powerful way to highlight healthcare issues that often go unnoticed by most America

Masking and air filtration during COVID surges prevent multiple infections, which can often lead to Long COVID.

Most people with an invisible chronic illness don't ask the manager for accommodations—with a few exceptions. Find out what those are and get free resources, too.

For months, the SPIKE! paper airplane card (left) was among the least-selected cards in the SPIKE! storytelling deck designed for patients with chronic illness to share their life experiences. Then, almost suddenly, it became a favorite. But I wasn't sure why. For those who aren’t chronically ill, here's why I was puzzled. Even though this summer marks the World Cup season, individuals with ME/CFS, Long COVID, and other chronic conditions often avoid travel—especially flying—

can't predict how my symptoms will change and how they will make my body feel. On a stellar day, I may work for six hours, but on a high-flame day, my joints ache, I get a migraine or allergies kick in and I have limited energy. I need help, doc, while I wait weeks to see a specialist.