Beautifully Broken

Photo By Michael Leach
Model & Editing Leila Hazlett (me!)

One of several images from a series of me wearing my back brace & compression socks. After a failed spinal surgery back in 2013 I am still struggling to balance work, family & health. Having chronic pain affects ever aspect of your life but since it's not a visible handicap most people don't realize how limiting pain can be. It's exhausting and distracting. Some days I feel fine other days I don't want to move at all because my bones feel like they are bruised and broken. Sometimes the only way I can stand up is by wearing my brace. My doctor suggested I wear compression socks when I'm not able to be active because it will reduce my risk of having blood clots. I'm not posting this for sympathy, I actually consider myself very lucky because I can work from home which gives me more time to take care of myself. I think more people should be aware of invisible disabilities like chronic pain. Just because someone is young or looks healthy doesn't mean they are healthy.