I am so excited to share with you that my poem “Silence.” is to be published in Issue 02 of The Pre-Med Gazette! ( https://thepremedgazette.wixsite.com/my-site-1 )The Pre-Med Gazette describes themselves as being “committed to addressing overlooked medical conditions, struggles and experiences as well as working to bridge the gap between the medical world and the artistic world to provide a space for empathetic individuals who are passionate about literature and medicine.”

The theme of Issue 02 is “Inner Turmoil,” which I believe is something that resonates with many of us. When I found that submissions were open for this, I dove straight into writing about something that I have personally dealt with, and I believe will be relatable to many: the pride that keeps us from speaking out about our suffering. 

The fear of being a burden is real, and backed up by destructive thought patterns that make us believe our struggles are self-conceived through some hidden need to be selfish or lazy. Unfortunately, the internet and our own minds often feed us the message that if we light enough lavender scented candles and attend pilates at least twice a week, all our health problems (physical and/or mental) will magically disappear, and that can all be done without the help of others. But the truth is that no amount of self-care routines can take the place of the support of the people around you and professional care. 

It saddens me to know that the experience I have captured in this poem is something that so many people can relate to. So if you’re reading it and it describes the way you are living, take that as your sign to make a change. There is no loss of dignity in admitting that you need help.

I am so appreciative of The Pre-Med Gazette for this opportunity to share my experiences with my own health in the hopes that others will feel seen and understood. I am so happy that there are magazines out there that focus on creating awareness of the battles that many of us are fighting daily. I will continue to keep you all updated about release dates and availability.