Slick Chicks and Dateability are teaming up to open up the world of dating, focusing on real-life stories. Our partnership merges Slick Chicks’ commitment to inclusivity with Dateability’s innovative platform, creating a narrative that challenges preconceptions and highlights the joys and challenges of dating for those with disabilities and chronic illnesses. By leveraging the voices of ambassadors who live these experiences, we aim to inspire, educate, and foster a more understanding and inclusive dating environment for all.
The following is an interview with Rana:
Can you share a little about your personal journey and how it has shaped your approach or perspective on dating?
Hey, I’m Rana! I’m 29 and I suffer from multiple chronic illnesses and have dealt with chronic pain since my pre teens. Conditions I’m currently diagnosed with are – fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, Polycystic ovarian syndrome, chronic gastritis, and chronic pain syndrome. At times my illnesses have made me feel unloveable. I thought that I was too much. That I was a burden. Being chronically ill makes me more selective with who gets my time and energy. It also makes me look for different qualities in a partner that I might not have looked for before. Chronic illness makes me more empathetic and understanding.
What have been some of the biggest challenges and triumphs you’ve faced in the dating world as a person living with a disability or chronic illness?
I have faced a few challenges being chronically ill and dating. I’ve had past partners who were not understanding and not accommodating to my illnesses. I’ve had people take advantage of me. Having chronic illness means not always being able to go out for date nights, having to come home early, needing extra rest, unexpected doctor and ER visits etc and a lot of people can’t understand that.
How has embracing your identity and overcoming personal challenges impacted your confidence in dating and romantic relationships?
Embracing my identity has helped me become more confident in myself and my body living with chronic illness. Chronic illness is a huge part of my life but it doesn’t have to define who I am. It’s okay if it does. But for me, I accepted that I can never go back to who I was before I dealt with chronic pain and illness. I can only manage it, learn from it, share my story with others, and continue to live my life.
Choosing what to wear on a first date can speak volumes and play a significant role in one’s confidence. Could you share your thought process on selecting the perfect outfit for a first date, especially considering your needs for comfort and accessibility?
Choosing an outfit to wear out for a date while dealing with chronic illness can be challenging. I always aim for something cute but comfy!
What advice would you give to others with disabilities and chronic illnesses about navigating the complexities of dating and relationships?
If I had to give advice to others navigating the dating world with chronic illness I would tell them – stick up for your wants and needs, stand firm on your boundaries, don’t do anything that makes you uncomfortable, it’s up to you when or if you want to disclose your medical history, don’t settle for less, there is someone out there that will treat you the way that you deserve, be yourself!! You are lovable just the way you are.
