Dealing with Siblings
I was diagnosed in Dec. 2022. It has been a swift and complicated time since then. I have been diagnosed with Stage 2 kidney disease, cyst on kidney, bladder infection, three torn ligaments in shoulder, cataract in left eye, fluid retention requiring upcoming doplar testing on my veins in my legs, anxiety, depression, skin issues, losing hair, and a new job.
I have an older sister and a younger sister. The older sister responded with surprising insight and genuine concern and has followed up with almost daily check ins. The younger sister took over a week to respond with, "I find it helps me to focus on the positive."
What do I do with that?
, I'm so sorry you were treated that way by your younger sister. It can be hard to get some people to understand what the realities of managing lupus, alongside other conditions, really entail. It is not your responsibility to educate her or anyone else for that matter. Your energy should be focused on yourself and your health needs. We have two articles that might be worth sending to your sister for her to read on her own time (1) https://lupus.net/living/letter-friends-family (2) https://lupus.net/living/help-loved-ones-with-lupus Please know you are not alone in this feeling and experience! I hope some of these articles are helpful to you and your family.
Gabby (team member)
so sorry you are dealing with so much. I have learned that I just can’t bother my head with how others react to my lupus. Some family can be the worst. They are so used to you being who you were before diagnosis and stay in denial. You have a great idea to focus on the positive. Anything that brings stress will surely bring you flares. I’m holding space for you to be able to find some relief. ~Racquel~ lupus.net team member
