u/Diatrial

I'm newly diagnosed with both lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. When sharing what has been going on with me, I've encountered a frustrating trend where someone will say, "Oh! My cousin/friend/mother/coworker has lupus." and then change the subject completely like I said I bought a new purse or something.

I know it's not their life, but so far this has been pretty devastating and life changing for me. Sometimes it seems they are trying to make me feel better like it's a common diagnosis that isn't a big deal, but that makes my struggles feel shameful and like I'm particularly weak.