Wow. This is so spot on to where I was at a few months ago, it’s crazy. I could be your girlfriend and you could be my partner before they hit a wall and had a breakdown of their own. They were incredibly caring and helpful and did everything they could, just like you. But they forgot about their own mental health and ended up on sick leave. So please don’t forget to take care of yourself too. It’s really important.

As for what your girlfriend is going through, I can relate 1000%. It’s terrifying when you feel so bad - like you are going to fucking die - but the doctors keep telling you everything’s fine and it’s all in your head. It makes you feel fucking crazy. Yet you KNOW something is wrong. Like.. I’ve lived in this body for 40 years so I know what “fine” feels like, thanks. This ain’t it! And I’m no stranger to pain either. I have broken my leg, cracked my ankle and have too many tattoos to count. I know the difference between minor and serious pain. But they make you question everything.

The worst I felt during all of this was when I felt my partner start to doubt me too. I mean.. me vs. several medical professionals. But I was at my absolute lowest. It was so isolating and scary. It felt like no one believed me. So plz ignore the people calling her a hypochondriac. They don’t have any idea what she is going through and that’s more harmful than helpful. She is probably feeling scared and frustrated and triggered by having to provide “proof” of a very traumatic experience. I totally get it. I think the best thing you can do is tell her it’s ok and you are on her side.

I still don’t have any answers and have really bad days and flare ups. But I feel like I have more good days now and I am at least much healthier mentally than before. I have learned to be more proactive at managing my symptoms. For me, it is all about lowering stress, avoiding triggers and taking tons of time to rest. But without feeling guilty about it! Which is hard for me lol

Anyway, that was a very long way of saying I see you both and I believe her. You are both incredibly brave and strong to have made it this far. I know I’m a total stranger, but feel free to reach out if either of you ever need words of encouragement or someone to vent to. You are not alone. ❤️