Overcoming Stigma by Telling Stories

Content warning:
This post contains content that some readers may find disturbing. Please engage in self-care as you read this post.

When people first read my posts and articles, their impression is of an articulate and expressive woman. Sometimes bold and fearless.

What they do not see is my anxiety as I disclose my conditions and share my stories, for fear of discrimination and being misunderstood. I fear that people would use what I share against me and cause harm to myself and my loved ones.

Despite so, I continue to do what I do because I was unable to find much representation of myself (my values, my beliefs, my conditions, and my intersectionality).

Perhaps it's stigma in our Asian culture that not many neurodivergent professionals come forward to share their stories, their lived experiences, their struggles on thriving in this world.

I needed that somebody, like an elder sibling who looks and speaks like me, who understands what I've been through, to tell me it's totally alright to feel overwhelmed now, and not lose hope that I will feel better one day with the right support.

I believe my personal stories bring comfort to people. Just like when I first shared about my breast cancer experience, many female friends came forward with their personal health stories to let me know I was not alone. Sharing their stories of strength and dignity, how we would not allow a diagnosis defeat us in our life journey.

This is why I decided to start this blog. I am taking up space and reclaiming my narrative, especially through the years where my dignity was undermined. Reminding myself, despite the shame, hurt and other negative emotions I've had... I too am deserving of goodness in my life.

Here's to courage, strength, and dignity.

Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we'll ever do. — Brené Brown