On Today’s Episode of “I Don’t Look Sick”...

I smiled at the cashier.I laughed at a joke.I wore makeup. I answered emails. I even posted a cute photo.

And someone said,

“You don’t look sick.”

As if looking okay means feeling okay.As if a polished exterior cancels out the pain within.

Here’s the truth:Chronic illness doesn’t always have a look.It doesn’t show up with a cast or a cane or a clear diagnosis taped to your forehead.

It shows up in fatigue so deep it feels like drowning.In migraines behind smiling eyes.In joints that ache beneath stylish outfits.In grief that lingers long after the diagnosis.

Beauty and Battle Can Coexist

You can look radiant and still feel wrecked.You can put on earrings and still carry invisible pain.You can show up in the world with joy, and still need extra rest by noon.

This doesn’t make you fake.It makes you resilient.

When People Don’t Understand

It’s hard when others can’t see what you’re carrying. When they say things like:

• “But you look fine!”

• “You were doing great yesterday.”

• “Must be nice to nap in the middle of the day.”

What they don’t see are the choices you have to make: Do I shower or cook dinner—because I don’t have energy for both?Do I cancel plans and risk feeling isolated, or go and risk a flare-up?Do I share how I’m really doing, or stay quiet to avoid awkwardness?

This constant mental math? It’s exhausting.

Your Pain Is Real. Your Strength Is Sacred.

Just because your illness is invisible doesn’t mean you are.

So if you’re reading this and feeling unseen, unheard, or misunderstood—please know:You’re not imagining it. You’re not too sensitive. You’re not weak.

You’re navigating a reality that most people can’t fathom—and you’re doing it with grace and grit.

You belong in spaces where you don’t have to prove your pain or perform your worth.

Let’s normalize this conversation. Let’s make room for invisible battles. And let’s keep showing up—messy hair, glitter bow, and all.