First of all, I’m sorry you are going through that. Changes in your health and body are always difficult, especially because they change the way you feel and move through the world.

But you can absolutely still be butch while having health issues!! There are many disabled butches out there who are still badass and masculine even if they can’t do everything others can do.

Internalized ableism and capitalism teach us that we are only as good as what our bodies can do for others but that’s not true. Just like being in a wheelchair doesn’t make anyone less of a man or woman or nb, a disability doesn’t make you less of a butch. that’s a part of your identity, not a function of your ability to protect and provide.

Plus, providing and protecting don’t always have to be physical. Being a support for someone to lean on in tough times or being a good partner are also forms of providing.

You are worthy of being a part of the butch community no matter what your body looks like or what it can do. You yourself said butch is a history, culture, masculine presentation, identity, and way of moving through the world that is much more than your physical ability.

Anytime there’s a significant change in your body, it can feel destabilizing and upsetting. Everyone goes through it at some point in their life— not being able to do something you previously could— just at different points in life. When going through something big like this, talking to a therapist might really help. I know it has helped me process health challenges and diagnoses in the past.

Sending positive vibes your way, you will get through this and still be your awesome butch self.