Hailey M

I have learned to live in pain.
I’ve learned how to hold it with joy.
I’ve brought it with me to the dance floor, on stage, to the microphone, on dates, on roadtrips, to dinner parties and home visits.

I have learned to live in pain.

But that doesn’t mean its existence isn’t traumatic…

Those seeing this, that don’t know me or don’t have experience with Endo/chronic pain, probably think: “oh here’s another one setting up her camera to whine.”

But this is my reality and I don’t know how to show up any other way besides honestly. Sometimes it’s easier to document symptoms with a video rather than writing. The fatigue & brain fog can knock me out for hours (days) during huge flares. Sometimes the camera helps me feel less alone & I know it helps others feel the same, too.

3 surgeries & this is still my reality.

I am not sharing this for pity or attention. Pain isn’t necessarily aesthetic & doesn’t come at moments with perfect lighting/camera angles. Frankly, all my posts are some odd form of public journaling.

If anything, allow it to be a glimpse into an experience that is different than yours.
You don’t have to understand it or even empathize.
Just witness & scroll.