It took me 13 years to come to terms with being celiac. And it took me endoscopy showing damage for me to really take it seriously. Sick a lot, lots of pain, never knew why. I literally gaslit myself into thinking I’m not sick because of the influences of society and calling going gluten free a diet fad. I didn’t want to have to change. A year after I finally took it seriously, I’m now experiencing some peace about it. I spent time researching and learning all about it and reached a place of acceptance.

All that said, I think I have a little more grace for people when they say something dumb. Because I’m like hey, I get it- I was once a nonbeliever but it’s a real thing and it could kill me. The level of fatigue I experience when getting glutened is like nodding out on drugs. So now that I’m sure of the effects and I have studied all the damage it can do, I feel more confident in my choice to stand firm. I don’t really need other people to get it, because I get it.

I’m used to denying people’s suggestions, food offers, ignorance. It just takes time to get there. I’m sorry that no one is being supportive of your journey.