I am making this post not for attention or pity, but because I have been struggling and feel this is an experience I should share in hopes for more support as it has been difficult. This is hard and personal but bare with me. Three weeks ago I was diagnosed with a chronic illness called Interstital Cytitis. From what I remember, it all began three years ago when I went to the doctor for a UTI. Medication didn't help me, so I went again, and again and again. I eventually found myself in the hospital monthly because the burning pain was unbearable. I was then diagnosed with ovarian cysts and sent to a gynecologist. At the gynecologist with my best friend, it was confirmed I had cysts, especially on my left ovary. The doctor explain the side effects, but my best friend gratefully had known the severity of my symptoms and dug deeper, telling the doctor that the burning pain needed to be addressed. So he sent me to a professional urologist. After an appointment and an uncomfortable procedure, my questions were met with answers. It was also confirmed I have interstital cytitis and he put me on medication right away, but it will be months and years before I will get any sort of remedy as we take the steps to make me feel better. What is IC? IC is a painful bladder disorder. You are in constant burning and aching pain all day. There is no cure and it doesn't go away, but there are treatments to ease the pain. It not only affects your bladder, but it affects your mentality and quality of life. It sure has affected mine. This has been difficult because it restricts me from enjoying things I normally used to, I am on a restricted diet that strips me from foods I used to love and it has greatly affected my depression and anxiety the last couple of weeks as I get used to the idea that this will now be my life.

I urge anyone who is struggling with interstital cytitis or painful bladder conditions to please reach out, lets support eachother! This has been difficult, but I am slowly healing.