Thank you

I just want to start by saying thank you for the support- it's really nice to know that others can understand what I'm going through (although it sucks that others have had experiences similar to my experience with tactless jerk guy(. Until recently I didn't realize just how much of an impact trich has had on almost my entire life and I really don't think a person can understand that impact unless they have this disease.

The other day I was telling my friend about trich for the first time. He was one of the first people I met in college and, although we dated on and off for about 7 years (which officially ended about 2 years ago) we now have a really great friendship. We have a pretty solid understanding of each other in many, many ways, but I felt that, albeit unintentionally, he almost trivialized what it's like to have this disease. Trivialized may not be the right word, but he made it seem like "no big deal"- dont get me wrong, I know he was trying to be supportive but he's wrong, it is a big deal.

He called it a quirk, which yes, in some ways it is, but it's also so much more than that. There are hours spent worrying about what others think, and planning how to cover up the missing hair depending on what situation you may encounter on a given day. There is endless shame and anxiety, years of frustration and sadness. It's not just something I do, its a huge part of who I am and what my life has been, and as much as I've confronted it, it'll always be a big part of my future. I guess that's why when someone makes an insensitive remark, like the tactless jerk I mentioned on Wednesday, it is so hard to forgive or even try to forget.

Again, I'm sorry that most people reading this know what it's like all too well- I wouldn't wish trich on anyone- but I'm grateful that there are people out there that can understand and I'm grateful for all the support I've received.

On a side note- I've been up every day this week at 6am and have been exercising for the first time in a long time. The other day I bought a Wii active game which includes a 30 day challenge and i must admit that it is kicking my butt into shape. By the end of the day, I'm too tired to pull and just want to go to bed. For now, I'll take the small vacation from having urges:)