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Hey Reader,

Have you ever walked into a doctor’s office, hopeful for answers, only to leave feeling unheard, dismissed, or more confused than when you arrived? If so, you’re not alone.

One of my amazing subscribers recently shared their frustration about the struggles of getting diagnosed with a chronic illness—the endless tests, the referrals that lead nowhere, the failed treatments and the doctors who say “everything looks fine” when you know it’s not. Their response struck a chord because this is something so many of us face, yet it’s rarely talked about.

So, I wrote a new blog post inspired by that very conversation. 💜

👉 Read it here.​

Why Is It So Hard to Get Diagnosed?

For many spoonies, the healthcare system feels more like an obstacle course than a place of healing. Instead of getting clear answers, we’re often dismissed, told our symptoms are “just stress,” or forced to fight for every test and referral.

In this post, I’m breaking down:
✔️ Why doctors overlook or misdiagnose chronic illness​
✔️ How medical dismissal delays proper treatment​
✔️ What you can do when you’re stuck in the cycle of endless testing​
✔️ How to cope with the emotional toll of being undiagnosed

Because here’s the truth: Your symptoms are real. Your experience is valid. You deserve to be taken seriously.

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Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

This post was directly inspired by a subscriber’s email, and I’d love to hear from you, too!

💬 What’s been your biggest struggle with chronic illness lately? Hit reply and let me know, or drop a comment on the post! Whether it’s about getting diagnosed, finding the right treatment, or navigating daily life, I want to make sure I’m covering the topics that matter most to you.

I read every reply, and your feedback helps shape future blog posts, resources, and conversations in this community. So don’t hold back!

I Know Times Are Tough 💜

I also want to take a moment to acknowledge that things are especially hard right now for so many of us in the chronic illness and disability community. The world can feel heavy, uncertain, and even unsafe—but you’re not alone.

My hope is that this blog can be a space that offers support, validation, and practical ways to navigate life when everything feels overwhelming. Whether it's advocating for yourself in the doctor’s office, managing your energy, or simply feeling seen in a world that too often ignores us—I want this to be a resource that helps you hold onto your strength.

If you ever need to let it out to someone who gets it, my inbox is always open. I may not have all the answers, but I’m here, and I’m listening. 💜

You’ve got this. And I’ve got you.

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Warmly,

​ April Smith | Chronic Illness Adaptability Guide ​Owner & Founder of The Thriving Spoonie​ ​Email | Bluesky | Pinterest​ ​ Take control of your energy and routine—grab The Complete Guide to Daily Chronic Illness Management and start thriving today.

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