mAHAM REHMAN

SELf-acceptance

In March of 2019 I was diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid condition, in August of that same year I was diagnosed with chronic gastritis. In the span of several months I went from a healthy 20 year old to completely bed ridden for several weeks. My life was turned upside down. My body was not the same; tasks that came easy to everyone else felt like an obstacle for me. I was frustrated, angry, and hurt. I became very self-conscious, isolating myself from people, because I didn't want anyone to see me like this. I didn't want to be seen as "sickly" or "weak". I let my illness define me and in the process I lost who I was.  

How did I get to a state of acceptance?

I don't know if I will fully accept my physical health, but I take everyday as it comes. Some days are good and some days are bad. That is OKAY, every day is a part of the journey.  I am learning to love my body and all the amazing things it can do. Although the journey is hard, I am discovering new things about myself everyday. Most importantly, I have learned that I am strong. It is very easy to underestimate myself, but turns out I am capable of much more than I give myself credit for. The Human body is resilient, and I am learning to become resilient too. 

Sharing my story isn't easy. It is a level of openness I did not think I had the courage to achieve, but I did in the hopes to help others through their journey. Be kind to one another and most importantly love yourself because you are AMAZING!