https://themighty.com/2017/05/how-to-help-sick-friend-not-in-hospital/

People say this to me often, but they’re about as emotionally present as a flea. They don’t call, they don’t check in, they don’t ask if there’s something I CAN do and agree to join me, etc. It’s always about them. It’s like being invisible, just like my illness. I don’t exist, unless someone wants or needs something, and suddenly I’m this amazing, brilliant person. I didn’t think it was possible to roll my eyes so much, but it IS, and it’s because I find it offensive and rude.

Maybe it’s because I am a writer, but I believe words have immense power. Use them wisely, and please, check in on people. Just because they’re not hospitalized doesn’t mean they’re not isolated and/or hurting deeply. I spend 95% of my time completely alone. I’m not even sure why I have a phone most days. It would be nice if people weren’t so self-centered, but since they remain as they are, I’ve decided to remain who I am.