A thank you ..We are not just a condition to be treated or a puzzle to solve

To the medical professions who remember we are people, thank you. 

Thank you for not just listening, but hearing me.

Thank you for not just hearing me, but believing me. 

Thank you for not just talking at me, but talking to me. 

Thank you for not just treating me like a patient, but treating me like a partner in my care. 

Thank you for being gentle when you can, and for warning me when you can’t. For being straightforward, but also kind. 

Thank you for not just teaching me things, but being willing to learn from me as well. 

You are a treasure and worth your weight in gold. Because as people with chronic conditions sometimes we just need someone to treat us as people with conditions, not just conditions that need treating. 

Signed, A grateful patient.