In the past few months, I’ve been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received with Chronically Capable. A year ago today, I would have laughed if someone told me I’d be telling the world about my fight with Lyme disease. Yet, here I am, practicing the art of vulnerability every single day, sharing my story and my mission.  

I’ve had strangers write to me from across the globe, I’ve had estranged friends reach out to me via social media, and I’ve had thousands of people express their support for Chronically Capable. In the spirit of the holidays, I can’t help but feel grateful for the overwhelming encouragement I am receiving.

Fighting my relapse of Lyme, while working with my team to start a new company, I haven’t had much time to sit and reflect on the people in my life. I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to those who love me, whether that be in the context of romance, friendship, or family.

I want to thank each and every one of you for not giving up on me.

Thank you for believing me, even when some of the top doctors in the country didn’t.

Thank you for bringing me to tears of laughter when all I want to do is shed tears of frustration.

Thank you for checking in on me, even though I sometimes let texts sit in my inbox for weeks…

Thank you for reminding me that I am worthy. When a disease strips you of your sense of self, it’s hard to remember this simple fact. Thanks for pointing this out and not letting me forget it.

Thank you for continuing to treat me like a normal 22 year old.

Thank you for telling me to keep fighting, even when quitting sometimes sounds easier.

Thank you for understanding when I cancel plans and not taking it personally. I’m just freakin’ tired sometimes, so thanks for understanding that.

Thank you for listening to my rants, to my ideas, to my struggles, to my desperation, and most importantly, to my bad jokes.

Thank you for being there, whether physically or remotely, thank you for always answering the phone and never letting me fight this battle alone.

Thank you for loving me, even though I can be hard to love. I love you back.

I wouldn’t be here today without each and every one of you. Thank you for making this all worth it, and for sticking by my side as I continue to fight the fight of my life. Cheers to you and Happy Holidays.

Love,

Hannah