First diagnosed in the 9th grade, Espys manifestation of the disease actually began a few years prior.
Upon receiving her diagnosis, Espy remembers feeling relief, given that the other possibilities were even more daunting.
When some people hear skin and disease their minds automatically go to an STD or another contagious skin disorder.
HS is not synonymous with STD.
When I wake up and use the bathroom I think about HS.
When I eat I think about HS.
When I move I think about HS.
When I shower I think about HS.
I am always thinking about HS because it impacts every area of my life.
Today, Espy wishes that more people knew how to support individuals with chronic illnesses.
Regardless of what day youre currently experiencing know there is hope.
Hope lies within the medical communities advancements in treatments, surgeries and diagnosis.
Hope lies within the support system patients are building with each other online and in person.
Hope lives through you being alive.
Especially in a world that would probably prefer if you didnt exist at various levels.
Ultimately, her goal is to inspire other patients to tell their stories, too.
Theres a movement I want to start with HS that first begins with healing and ends with storytelling.
