She Strengthens

The Hidden Costs of Undiagnosed Illness

As a teenager, I began experiencing strange symptoms – waking up at 3-4 am with nausea that would last through my first period of classes, only to dissipate later in the day. This mysterious affliction led to a series of misdiagnoses, homeschooling, and a delayed diagnosis until my early twenties. The consequences of those early years still linger.

The Financial Toll of Delayed Diagnosis

The journey to diagnosis was expensive, with hundreds, if not thousands, spent on doctor’s co-pays, testing, imaging, supplements, therapies, and medications. Even now, I require Botox injections, which, although effective, come with a hefty price tag – $3,500 per injection, with 20% out-of-pocket costs. The psychological therapy bills aren’t insignificant either, after years of isolating illness.

The Opportunity Costs of Delayed Education

Using those early years to work or volunteer would have been worthwhile, but instead, I spent them bedridden. I attempted to start college multiple times, only to withdraw due to illness. Those failed attempts cost around $2,000. When I finally started college, I paid full price at a local community college, as I was still two years away from being considered independent for financial aid. Transferring to a liberal arts college added an extra year to my education, putting me behind my peers.

The Consequences of Delayed Health Insurance

When I first attempted college, I expected to stay on my parents’ health insurance. However, when I withdrew, that coverage disappeared. Pre-Obamacare, those were dark days. My parents paid out-of-pocket for my insurance for almost four years, until I returned to school full-time. Even then, I felt pressured to take on a heavy course load to save money, despite still struggling with health issues.

The Long-term Effects of Delayed Work Experience

Although I started freelancing while sick, doing some writing and internships, there’s no substitute for lost time in the workforce. I’m low on experience for my age, and it shows. When I finally landed a steady freelance gig, working while going to school was challenging. I managed to save $5,000, but it wasn’t enough to compensate for the delayed start to my career.

The Difficulty of Catching Up

It took six months after graduation to land a full-time job, and even then, it wasn’t a good fit. Healthwise, 40 hours of sitting down staring at a screen was unsustainable. I eventually left to write and tutor as my own boss, but that came with its own set of challenges, including increased taxes. It’s tough to shake the feeling that I’m still struggling to progress financially, despite working hard.

Finding the Silver Lining

While it’s tempting to dwell on the costs of my undiagnosed illness, I’ve come to realize that it’s taught me valuable lessons about financial savviness, perseverance, and the importance of finding a career that accommodates my health needs. Without this journey, I may not have become the writer and tutor I am today. I may know what it’s cost me, but I’m still learning what it’s worth.