[peanut]

Well said, I'm very much the same. Bi-laterally deaf since birth, severe Crohn's Disease, now missing most of my bowel, had a rectal cancerous tumour removed resulting in loss of bowel control. Obviously not great combined with Crohn's disease. During the removal I ended up with Parsonage Turner Syndrome (Brachial Neuritis), I've now lost the use of my right arm. My neck C3/C4 have collapse on themselves which is now causing all kinds of problems. I also have Polycystic Kidney Disease and nearing the end of stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease. Also Polycystic Liver Disease. All this (and a few other probs) has affected my mental health in quite a way but it's been considered normal due to everything that's gone and going on.

So like wise, sympathy is the last thing I want and I wouldn't get it as I don't use my conditions in any way shape or form to be treated any differently but I do have considerable restrictions in day to day life obviously. If someone wants to make fun of me, then as long as I can laugh with you then go for it. That's my outlook on life.