A few days ago, I heard a radio interview where a soldier shared his experiences about being on the front lines of the war. His story was very intense, to say the least, and something I cannot fully comprehend having never served in the military, let alone fought in a war.
Several times during the interview, the soldier mentioned the term, “battle scars,” which for some reason caught my attention.
Later, as I replayed his story in my mind, I thought to myself, I have lots of battle scars, only from very different circumstances. It is not my intention in any way to compare military combat with a chronic illness, but I’ve often referred to arthritis challenges as battles and after having 32 operations, it goes without saying, I have scars.
About 14 years ago, while driving down a secluded country road, my car’s radiator hose busted, causing my car to overheat. Since there wasn’t a house in sight, my 6-year old son and I had to walk to find help.
After walking a short distance, a semi drove past and the driver made an offer that had nothing to do with repairing my car. A few minutes later, another semi driver shouted a comment about a ride, but not the kind that would get us closer to home.
Only seeing two vehicles and having a long way to walk, my son innocently asked why the drivers slowed down to say mean things, but didn’t offer to help us. As I thought about how to answer his question, I chuckled on the inside because I suddenly realized I was wearing a halter top and mini skirt. Although it was suitable clothing for a hot August day, it was also rather suggestive given we were walking on the street.
The following day, I was chatting with a group of women and I humorously told them about my adventure. Putting emphasis on my choice of clothes in the future, the trucker’s comments and the innocence of my child asking why no one helped, we all had a good laugh.
Then, out of nowhere, one lady said, “I think it’s great you’re not ashamed of your scars and do not try to cover them with clothing.” Having never given any thought to my scars and being unclear of the relationship of the two subjects, I responded with a questionable look. She clarified with a compliment about not being embarrassed by all of my scars and how they don’t seem to bother me.
Politely and in a positive manner, I assured her there was no shame associated with my scars and said “I see them as a roadmap of my past. They are symbols of my journeys and reminders of how far I’ve come.”
I suppose there are some areas where scars would bother me and I’d consider having plastic surgery or covering them. But for now, mine are not bothersome.
Do you think surgical scars are embarrassing? Have you considered ways to cover them? What procedures or methods have you considered or tried?
It's called Dermablend, its often used for covering tattoos but works GREAT for scars as well. It's easy to apply and stays on all day.
I know it can be found other places, but I found the best deal on this website. www.tat2x.com.
One Cinco de Mayo, I had just gotten a pic line put in my arm. It didn't occur to me to cover it when I went to eat Mexican! Now with a pic line, there's a tube and a needle and tape and so on. Half way through dinner I noticed people noticing me. And I realized that some actually get sick looking at needles, etc., so it would be polite to at least cover the line. I got myself an oh-so-fashionable arm band.
While I won't cover my scars, I do sometimes avoid skirts & shorts due to the fact that my lower legs are terribly discolored and scarred from different skin infections. Yet if comfort is involved (and the opposite sex is not), then I say "the heck with it" and wear the capris.
These days I think of my scars as badges of courage honoring the challenge I've been faced. And I hope that as a "walking poster child," my scars will open a conversation and educate someone new!
(not a pretty site) i need to remember that i am physically & emotionally overwhelmed for today. tomorrow is another day and my scars & pain will fade.your words are inspirational & helped me put things back into perspective. thank you
I'm sorry, but I'm not familiar with the article you mentioned and cannot help you. I do not have access to the missing pages and have no way of mailing them to you.
However, I do admire your alternative method of typing with a pencil. Both of my thumbs were severely deteriorated and have been reconstructed. They were fused using bones from my wrists. Although they look like crab claws, they work well and I've adjusted to the awkwardness.
My best to you!
Is there any way you could email me the missing page or pages? I would very much appreciate it.
Thank you
Carol Provenzano
360 Arkansas Drive
Valley Stream, NY 11580
(516) 837-7635
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