LIVING WITH a Chronic Illness

I wish they could walk in my shoes for a day
Then they wouldn't be so quick to say
"But you don't look sick .you're looking okay "
Then they give me that look as if to say
"You're not really ill, it's all in your head "
Well I don't care what they think: I'm going to bed
Having A chronic disease might make you feel needy
Having three of them makes you feel downright greedy
Water infections that make me feel drained
Have I taken my pills? Can't recall, fuzzy brained
My body thinks it's been hit by a tram
Am I getting the flu? No; it just feels like I am
My eyes and my mouth are screaming for fluids
I'm on more medication than I know what to do with
To read a good book was a pleasure of mine
Now the print goes askew by the third or fourth line
Two inhalers so I am able to breathe
Two red hands stemming from a liver disease
The itching starts and I tear at my skin for satisfaction
The men in white coats will soon have me in traction
Every muscle and sinew is ever so sore:
In fact I think I'll lie down on the floor
The soles of my feet feel as if they're on fire
A bucket of ice is what I desire
I've cleaned half the kitchen: and you know it looks grand
Now if only someone would give me a hand
To finish the job because my oomph is all spent
I don't know where it's gone
It just got up and went
Don't give me your pity: that's the last thing I want
Understanding and laughter are what I am after
Because they do me more good than any medicine could
So the next time someone tells me:" you don't look sick
You look rather well"
I'll smile very sweetly before I yell
GO TO ****