Don’t Be a Bore – Sarcoidosis and the Holidays
Once again the holidays are upon us and with all the joy, eggnog, and God-rested merry gentlemen, there is a 90% increased risk that those of us with Sarcoidosis will become a dangerous bore at get-togethers. Yes, sad to say, I fear it is true. Without proper technique and restraint, a sarcoidosis sufferer has the potential to turn even the most well meaning “So how have you been?” inquisitor into a bored-to-near-death victim.
Look for the signs.
If at any time during your explanation of Sarcoidosis and its symptoms your listener’s eyes glass over: stop. This is first stage boredom. If your listener’s eyes roll back to the whites and they fall backward to the floor, frothing at the mouth, you have relayed too much information about your personal Sarcoidosis history. Remember: no matter how earnest, caring, and interested someone acts; it is not a green light to open the floodgates on all your Sarcoidosis woes. That’s what blogs are for (wink!) Getting the word out about Sarcoidosis is important, but not at the cost of innocent lives.
So how exactly does one politely explain Sarcoidosis in one, Sarcoid-shortened breath? Here’s what I say (always with a smile):
“Sarcoidosis is like getting up everyday and spinning the Wheel of Misfortune.”
Now my listener looks at me quizzically with their head tilted slightly sideways like a dog that hears a strange noise. Yet they are intrigued because I have referenced a popular T.V. image they can relate to (poor, un-sarcoid-educated, non-sarcoid listener.)
I continue.
“Yes, I never know where on the wheel it will stop. Today I might have dry mouth, or chest pains, or sore joints, or no symptoms at all for a month (that’s my favorite). But rest assured, I have to spin that wheel everyday – yes, I know it’s a drag, but so are taxes. Heh, heh.”
At this my listener will look pained and sympathetic, and will often try to express some legitimate concern as to “what can they do about this horrible disease?” No matter how tempted, ignore this invitation to continue. Sarcoidosis is incurable, and medical science knows nothing more now than they did 100 years ago when they named the beastie. So why bum your listener out for the holidays? Laugh, and claim its nothing really then change the subject. Comment your listener on their great choice of holiday themed clothing – or some such fluffy nonsense. They won’t know it, but you may have just saved their lives.
The holidays are for joy, the celebration of life, and what we hold dear. If you have sarcoidosis and are reading this, you have reason to celebrate. You are here. You are alive. And you have the opportunity NOT to bore people to death. Educate them after the holidays, send them to this website. Oh… and God bless us, every one.
— My name is theGardener, and I have two dogs, a cat, and sarcoidosis.