Being sick and completely alone hits a different kind of quiet

I’m alone right now, and I have a fever and severe body aches. And honestly, physical pain isn’t even the hardest part.

​I’m in my early 40s, and I’ve gotten pretty used to taking care of myself. When you’re healthy, being alone feels like independence. But when you’re sick, and vulnerable, that same independence just feels like isolation.

​No one to bring me a glass of water. No one to ask, “Did you eat?” No one to check whether my fever has gone down. No one simply sits beside me and says, “Don’t worry, I’m here.” It’s the realization that there’s no one here.

​I just wish, for once, I didn’t have to be strong. I wish I could have someone take care of me.