Meet our #WarriorOfTheWeek, Jessica Harris! ????
Spotlight on: Jessica Harris
“Hi, my name is Jessica and I’ve had visual snow syndrome for 11 years. I developed visual snow overnight after surviving a bad viral infection and woke up with POTS, fibromyalgia and visual snow syndrome. My journey began at age 14, a very confusing time for anyone really, and The battle has continued into my mid 20s. I went 9 years without a diagnosis and 9 years without support from family members and friends. Even till this day, they still struggle to understand what I’m going through. With all these health problems and at such a young age, I sadly lost myself and slipped into a dark place and became suicidal. That was very confusing and scary for my family. I still struggle till today to cope with my symptoms and the traumas from not having support or validation at the hardest point in my life. Instead of telling my story in full. I’d like to dedicate this to all the warriors and their families. You are all so so strong! And to all the families – If you don’t believe your child or sibling, if you don’t show them love and support during this difficult time, you will slow the healing process. You will delay their ability to cope and have hope. Be there for your VSS family and friends. They need you more than ever. If you walked a day in their shoes, you would have the utmost respect. Whether you understand them or not, they deserve your love.
Open your hearts, lend a hand, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. We all deserve support, and we need it more than you know! Invisible diseases are so hard to manage. Realize there’s no true remedy or cure for us. Love, support, and respect are our only forms of treatment. Warriors, If you need someone to talk to, you can always reach out and I’ll respond! Remember, you’re not alone. Don’t lose hope.”
