I’m A Young Adult With Autoimmune Disease. Here’s What Folks Don’t Get About Chronic Pain

[@AbrialPang]

Hey guys, Abrial here :), firstly, thank you so much for your kind words and support! It means the world to me to know that our story has resonated with so many people suffering silently. Being part of this story was a truly incredible experience, and I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to share my AS journey with others. It's been heartwarming to see how this story has impacted people in different ways. Some have reached out to share their own experiences, while others have expressed their appreciation for the hope, awareness and resilience that it conveys. I'm truly humbled by the outpouring of positivity and support that I've received. But I think most importantly, it opens up the conversation for people who are struggling to be understood due to the inconspicuous nature of our illnesses - to be heard and seen. I hope that this documentary has inspired others to never give up the fight with their invisible illnesses and to persevere through even the toughest of challenges. Thank you again for your support, and I look forward to others courageously sharing their stories with their love ones, friends and even strangers to further help others understand their struggles better. P.S. Special thanks to the Eileen from CNA Insider who made this documentary possible from day 1 and not forgetting the amazing videography work done by Zachary Tang.

[@jasgoh91]

Hi Abrial, thank you for sharing! I’m also an auto immune disease patient (Lupus). I can relate to what you have been feeling like fatigue and flare up. Just want you to know that you’re so brave in participating in this interview :)

[@Ill_wait_somewhere]

You’re doing awesome!! Keep it up!! With love from #detroit MI

[@gabdongipark]

Hope you are doing well and share how we can all of us help each others and lower the stigma

[@changrongjonathanlin2908]

Hi Abrial, I’m a AS-diagnosed patient and I’m keen to join the support group because sometimes really felt that I’m lost and alone in this journey due to our chronic conditions which can flare up on and off. How can I get in touch with the group? Thank you!

[@maeks1861]

Hi Abrial, thanks for sharing! you are doing great :) #keepgoing

[@masterweaver]

There is nothing wrong to get a seat or ask for one if you need it. In the last 6 months, I did encounter an elderly couple who sarcastically say out loud that young people (me) are not giving up their seats. I stay silence for a couple of minutes before I spoke back to them that I have a health condition. I even offer to show them my latest hospital diagnose from Healthhub and even my whatsapp msg to my HR explaining my condition and that I can't walk and had to be in a wheelchair. Eventually they did apologies and my ending words to them is that I need to take care of myself in order to continue working and support my family and not be an burden to others. For the past 6 months, I did not feel bad or shameful just because I need to grab a seat for myself.

[@knock-knockwhosthere9933]

The irony is they say the older you are, the wiser you get. Apparently they are still learning til this day.

[@oenrob98000]

Amen ❤

[@chickeabiddy]

No need to explain to any self-entitled shitty person. Need a seat just use it, it is every commuter's right.

[@addicted2me]

I feel very nausea. And sat down covering my face. And i was told that i pretend to sit down n sleep. Thats the last i sit in mrt. I stand no mattet what . Older does not mean above everyone and everything else.

[@fritzsmith3296]

@@knock-knockwhosthere9933 "The irony is they say...". Whomever came up with that saying was/is ignorant. That only applies to certain people. Some people are born dumb and stay that way all their life. They never change. And some are born very wise and stay that way all their life. Others accrue wisdom with time and experience. Being born into a family that abuses you can retard one's normal progress of connecting with past-life actions. Wisdom does not come with age. It comes with an open mind and a curious mind. Both of those characteristics come from past-life actions. Past-life actions are the architect of present life consequences. I'm a Buddhist and a Medicine Man. There's no such thing as a "catch all" saying to explain human behavior. Mostly because not all humans born were humans in past lives. One could have been a rat, cat, dog, bird ect. in prior lives. Other animals or birds have an intelligence that serves them well as what they were born into, but not (necessarily) as when they are born human. Maybe your KZbin name is trying to open your mind. Stay curious.

[@j_k5000]

The hardest part is.. you are expected to go through it on a daily basis because we don't "look" sick. No one can understand the amount of pain we go through when the flares come. Thank you for creating this awareness of our silent illnesses🙏

[@momo-nb7zq]

Let's learn to be honest about asking for a seat on the MRT when we really need to sit.

[@pinkyrainbow4492]

If you look healthy & young with body fit appearance asking for a seat then people will consider it as a youngster prank...

[@smartpuppy5519]

You're right. There is a tendency for people to only see things from the outside parts because they can't see inside the body details of cartilage.

[@휴일-g5h]

Hopefully there is a discovery and new tech to detect people who really need to sit in the public transport in the future.

[@mango-vu2is]

I can't imagine how to focus, manage and complete a superb task while feeling the unbearable pain in the office.

[@Imane-joy]

I'm 17 yo , and I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disorder a year and a half ago , it's an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland . Watching this video , it felt like a hug honestly , because I totally understand what Abrial is going through . In my case , teachers would give me the "looks" and not believe me when I tell them the reason for my repeated absence is actually illness , and the thing is my flare ups happen so often , and my body keeps going from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism , and during the latter , my body become extremely exhausted , but my skin and hair look very good , so even my close friends when I tell them that my health is at it's worse right now , they doubt me , I was once told by a teacher after I was absent for a month "you look so good , when you didnt come for an entire month I thought you were bedridden or something " , I was actually bedridden ; Thank you so much Abrial for sharing your story and thank you CNA for making the video .

[@angelmathew5847]

I am 18 years old an I am suffering from autoimmune illness called lupus nephrites for almost 8 years .I also don't look sick but every day I struggle with muscle cramp,fatigue , insomnia,rashes ,swelling ,infections an the list goes on.Even my teachers don't understand what I am going through .I can relate to u but don't lose hope everything will be alright.

[@Imane-joy]

@@angelmathew5847 thank you Mathew ! I understand how hard you life must be , I recently got diagnosed with a second autoimmune disorder that affects almost all of the body( called behcet). I hope you you'll be able to feel content even everything , I wish you the best !

[@Makisetutuloo]

Same here, with Hashimoto's. The medication made me tired and gave me terrible cramps through the day, which sometimes made it hard to walk. On some days, I feel down because the medication makes my hair fall more and my eyes bulge and I felt self-conscious about it. I still went to work anyway. But I'm glad to have colleagues who were understanding. But I did wonder how to ask for a seat at public transportation when the severe cramps were happening. Thankfully my condition has gotten better now that I don't need medication to manage it anymore. I hope you'll get better in time too.

[@Imane-joy]

@@Makisetutuloo thank you so much !! And I'm glad that you're doing better !

[@นครเทพ]

I got diagnosed with MS at 18 and lost my vision 2-3 times and the whole right side of my body is numb. I now have only right eye. It sucks to get diagnosed with Autoimmune disease right before turning adult, I totally understand. I’m 28 now. You’ll find a way to live your own way, do not live life by other people rules. You are now special so you need your own rule!

[@tessaapostol4688]

I have fibromyalgia and I use that yellow card. Sometimes I feel embarrassed at asking for the priority seat, but when I don’t, my pain flares up after a while. The worst was when I collapsed after getting out of the train and I just couldn’t walk anymore. Thank you for bringing these invisible autoimmune conditions to light. It’s depressing but like you, I have to fight against it, continue to exercise and stretch, because if I don’t, it’s like I’m giving up on myself.

[@CNAInsider]

Hi Tessa, we'd love to hear more about your story. Could you email us with your contact details at [e-mail] ? Thanks!

[@Bagellatte]

The public needs to have more awareness that sickness and disease does not only affect the elderly but to any ages too. As a nurse, I have seen many patients young/old, that have various diseases so I look at life and people differently now and I understand why people behave in a certain way.. Please do not judge others without knowing what underlying condition they have... be more empathetic... It can happen to me, you or anyone. If you are healthy, do count your blessings because we do not know how these people feel. My late mom was diagnosed with SLE and I know how hard to live with such a disease.

[@depanbelakang1574]

i have a story i have autoimmune disease (NMO), i was queueing to register at hospital but asking for special treatment couse im feeling pain and very tired but security guard suspicious at me since i was not using any walking aids at that time. he said, "this special queue line is for disability, why are you using this line? you are not using any walking aid". but he give me permission right away, i think he realize that his word was wrong and seeing me has trouble to walk properly

[@pensripippy3976]

@trirach...Well said!

[@beethao9380]

It is usually white countries that judge.

[@BabyYodaMin]

As a patient with more than 10 years of experience with autoimmune disease and invisible mobility issue, my biggest takeaways are 1) have thick face and don’t care about what strangers think of you, put yourself at highest priority and do what you need, no matter if it’s grabbing a seat or asking for help in lifting stuff or using priority access 2) we are not obliged to explain our condition to everyone, and very often the explanation can only make things worse instead (people who don’t know the condition may think it’s contagious and start avoiding us or assume that we cannot have children, cannot perform reliably etc), on days that my limping gets worse, whenever my colleagues ask me what happens, I usually just say I got some old injuries coming back. It took me a few years to understand that there’s nothing wrong with taking pills everyday. And for conditions that are not curable, it doesn’t mean we can’t have a good life under proper treatment. Hope everyone who is fighting in their life finds peace and love❤

[@albin6126]

yeah thats great why mind people staring at you for grabbing seats when you can feel comfortable and relieve your pain anyway staring doesn't cause pain

[@vforx]

I completely agree with you. I have 2 autoimmune diseases (the second one has been diagnosed fairly recently) for about 15 years now and the symptoms only got worse. I can tell you that I do not care what people say or think, because my health and welbeing is the most important thing in the world. We need more people to talk about this, because autoimmune conditions are more common than people think.

[@jacquikong6757]

​@Tobias I find it so ridiculous that people can be so insensitive!!

[@Founderschannel123]

@@Tobias_world honestly singaporeans are the very stigma male kind of status nowdays you must find perfect girlfriend must get 100 marks dont show emotion when your down etc.

[@iremaydemir4670]

I've been suffering from pain for 1 year, they investigated, it's constantly sedimentation and CRP is high, nothing but that, but I can't move without taking 2 painkillers every day, my knees hurt a lot, my arms hurt, I have regional swellings in my left knee and leg, my hands and ankles hurt . but people dont believe me because I'm young, people think I'm lying. Those who don't experience these pains don't know, sometimes I am so bad that I pray to Allah that if I die, kill me if this pain will go away, now we finally went to a familiar doctor and they opened a registration for me in the rheumatism department, but I never get an appointment. Public hospitals in my country are very troublesome.

[@thecolorblinddesigner]

I just want to say that this video is so relatable…Although I do not have any autoimmune disease but I have been suffering from migraine since 14 years old. The pain when it strikes is so unbearable that I have to be bedridden. Often times, this also means cancelling meetings with friends, missing out at work, or even important family events. I remembered a particular incident that I tried going to work with a small migraine but ended up in such pain that I was seeing stars and everything was dazzling around me. But all those years, a lot of people still thinks that migraine is just a headache that will past if I drink more water or have more sleep. Invisible illness is real and the impact to our life is huge. Thanks for doing up this video CNA and Abrial for sharing.

[@ModernVintage31]

I too am a migraineur and it’s incredibly frustrating to try to explain the level of debilitation to people who have never experienced it. The impact to the ability to have a normal life just isn’t understood even if some do sincerely try. Having to cancel a get together with friends is bad enough. Not having any idea when you’ll be able to have a make-up is worse. Then multiply that times the rest of your life’s activities and it’s a real mess. I wish you the best in your treatment and that a cure can be found.

[@violetblue3347]

I used to have migraines attack from time to time. Had to cancel gatherings at last minute. Not everyone understands. I then did research on this subject, pay visits to herbalist, seek advice from professionals. Eventually I realized, in my case, it’s mostly deal to emotional distress. Since then I adjusted my diet to be more healthy, exercise and take care of my mental health. I’m much better with work life balance now.

[@linhwang6651]

Here is a story I know. In UK, a policeman of the special unit in airport was worried that he might not be able to work to his retirement age in a few years' time due to the attack of severe migraine, which was unpredictable. The medicine was effective only he took it before the occurrence of the migraine, but it was not advisable to take it daily due to the side effects, which also impaired his ability to perform his duty. As the last resort, he accepted the help of a healer recommended by his old mother. The healer taught him a method and he was soon free of the migraine within a month ot two. He retired happily few years later.

[@budakPancing]

CNA, thks for the awareness. Like autoimmune disease, people suffering migraines are often misunderstood even by the medical profession. Like what other replied, migraine sufferers usually can't do much until the condition passed. There are varying levels of migraine pain and triggers that is often generalized by people and certain doctors. I suffered migraine since 6years old and now is more then 50years old. Though I have learnt to prevent triggers, it still happens a few times a week. But I found a particular med, Caffox, then will suppress and clear migraine within less than 15min. So those still suffering can try this med, thought not many clinic carries it. Good luck.

[@romella_karmey]

Mental illness too is an invisible illness that most narrow-minded people mock and belittle...

[@Rob-lq2ny]

Nothing wrong to carry backpack, as long as you able to perform your job well!

[@knock-knockwhosthere9933]

I see Japanese hardworking men carries backpack as well.😊 Ignore those BS

[@drewh3224]

I have my backpack everywhere I go..

[@bc3255]

Shows how superficial the insurance industry is……

[@barryknight]

Sadly not everyone thinks so..

[@katapult684]

Blows my mind why it matters to them if he uses a napsack or not… geez

[@ngchinkiat5340]

I have auto immune disease , SLE since 1994 when i was 12 years old. And now I am 40! Unfortunately, my kidney failed due to SLE in 2018, but I managed to get a kidney transplant also in 2018. Life is not easy for me, but I tried to live life to the fullest . I am still working as a full time teacher. I had a few of friends left the world due to auto immune disease. I do not know when is my turn. But then, I just want to enjoy every moment of life. Jia You to all my friends with auto immune disease .

[@po1ariser]

My mother just passed away from an autoimmune disease (Lupus/SLE), and Abrial really helped explain and give a perspective of she had to go endure. Thank you CNA for producing this video and sharing awareness and understanding about these hidden sufferings

[@tanguangmeivanessa-mei745]

❤️

[@chensymatt]

I personally have this Ankylosing Spondylitis and I thank CNA for doing this coverage!

[@cmymotion]

He looks fit and that is why people wont realise. It takes a lot of courage to tell anyone about the condition. Most people may not even know such illness and what is a pain of 7, 8, 9 or 10 cos they will never experience even a pain of 3..

[@depanbelakang1574]

pain is real and pain killer doesn't work at all

[@cmymotion]

@@depanbelakang1574 painkiller is bad for the body - the liver and kidney in long term too.

[@celestialstar124]

I am born with blood disorder and diagnosed with AS at 16. Legally blind too because my degree is over - 20.00 per eye. Because of our age and appearance, people actually scolded me on mrt when i sit on non reserve seats. They expect me to give my seat to seniors. I will give my seat up when someone asked me no matter how painful i am because i believe they must be really desperate to ask directly. Now with the yellow "may i have a seat" card, people usually give up their seats for me on mrt. Really grateful to the person who recommended this idea to the government.

[@champagne77]

I'm glad the yellow card help ! Jiayou!

[@joni_ng]

Thank you, Abrial, Sherry and CNA for creating awareness for the autoimmune conditions. As an 8-yr patient diagnosed with spondyloarthritis, it is a long way we have come to get people to understand what autoimmune conditions mean, and the understanding we need esp. on public transport. Like Abrial, I chose to take cabs when I have extreme pain, but if the pain goes on for an extended period of time, it becomes highly unaffordable. If we are not exactly in the low income bracket, and not permanently disabled, we have no support for taking cabs

[@PENSKY04]

Im also with the same situation.. try drink pandan leaf water

[@JoanKSX]

Maybe some sesame or turmeric cuisines?

[@bondyaliano]

My sister has been diagnosed with autoimmune disease since about 6 years ago. Some days she's super energetic, other days she looks like the living dead. It has always been a challenge for her to explain it to some people, even some who are closest to her, whether extended family, friends or colleagues. Since I live with her and know her daily routine, it infuriates me when some of them think that she's lying or craving for attention because she looks quite healthy on the outside. Or when they say that she's just lazy, it's all in her head, her doctor's overreacting, she needs to be closer to God, etc. 🙄 the ignorance level is so unbelievable.

[@bijoux900823]

Yes, that's what everyone go through and still facing now. There are even people who can tell you that you're actually not sick and made up everything. Tell your sister don't bother about others and live up her life at her level best. When she is in better condition, do something she enjoys; when she is in not so good condition, get the necessary rest to make herself less suffered ~

[@truehappiness4U]

Maybe it’s because those people are uneducated about your sister her disease? They don’t know how the disease works? You can’t expect random people to know every disease and to know what it does to a person. Let your sister educate them and let them understand her condition. Or else they will keep on telling she’s lazy.

[@bondyaliano]

@@bijoux900823 Thank you. My sister is luckily a very patient but hardworking person and she's always doing her best to just trying to live her life as much as she can.

[@bondyaliano]

@@truehappiness4U it would've been easier if it was just random people, because then we wouldn't even bother, lol. I was talking about some closest people that have known my sister for years, like extended family that we would meet multiple times in a month, or close friends. Even after explaining it through informative articles/videos, they would just disregard facts and believe what they want to believe. We literally have to deal with someone in the family who keeps suggesting to contact questionable alternative experts. Or worse, there are those who try to "convert" my sister into accepting their religion because they think she's just being punished by God 😅. We are now used to these shenanigans and know how to handle them, even though they can be so annoying at times, we just think of them as silly entertainment of sort 🤭.

[@bluaurora8635]

Your sister is lucky to have you who believes her. My family seems to think I made it up for pity

[@mischa6688]

Your future partner would be so lucky Abrial. I may not know you from a personal level from this docu, but you seem very responsible and outgoing regardless of having an autoimmune disease. I hope you won’t have to worry about that part. Keep it up! :)

[@keithchan6071]

Man I relate to this so much. Been diagnosed since 18 and it's been tough. Sending prayers and support to everyone affected.

[@kingsufi6164]

I like his fighting spirit. Nothing holding him back. He took a step at a time and simply just do it attitude. Even go for gym still. Brave. Workplace can be a toxic arena even in public places...... hope this story reach to many more. Sial ah, all we need is understanding. Bright young man this one. Keep fighting

[@shermainewsj]

I was diagnosed with RA at the age of 24. Thank you for shedding light on autoimmune diseases especially with the rise of younger people suffering from it. Although my condition is currently under control, there still is a constant fear of it flaring up again one day. I do wish for more awareness that our pain is not just a sprain..

[@tintank8620]

Same here, I’ve just started having RA symptoms

[@Takuma_Sakazaki]

Try carnivore diet

[@bijoux900823]

Abrial, members of the support group and the production team, I was tearing when I'm watching the video. I'm an SLE patient who was diagnosed at 19yo during a major flares and it follows by the worse few years of unstable and frequent flare up. But actually the signs and symptoms can be traced throughout my childhood and puberty life. I rejoined the work force, get married and having a daughter gradually after my conditions are more stable and less flare up in the next few years. I was trying hard to living a normal life as possible but I'm constantly facing the challenges from life. It's never easy to be understood either in work place, society, and also marriage. I'm 33 YO this year, I'm more mature in facing challenges in my life, getting more familiar and knowing how to living with the invisible disease, most importantly resolve with myself. It's a constant and life-ling journey of having conversation with my inner self and adapt to the changes in different stages of life following the progress of the disease. Thank you so much for making the video as well, as it's really an indirect way of showing support to people who are suffering alone with the invisible autoimmune disorders, and reminds us that we are not alone.

[@bijoux900823]

What was shared in the videos was exactly what I had gone through and still dealing with it now~

[@lizai]

Thank You for sharing. May you find peace and less suffering. My dearest sister is having severe SLE too.

[@oenrob98000]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@jennywu73]

Yeah, I have SLE too. glad, you’re doing ok.

[@marlenej4191]

i got diagnosed for SLE too when i was 16. i am 22 now, and is still learning to accept this condition 🥹

[@andreawong4786]

I was diagnosed with Graves disease when I was 22. Although it never caused me chronic pain the way Abrial's or others might experience it did make me question a lot of things especially at such a young age. Can definitely relate to how Abrial feels as a young adult with an autoimmune condition. On the positive side, it did push me into getting serious about my fitness and diet and made me appreciate the things my body does for me daily. Cheering you on Abrial!

[@dfgndfghdfghdfgh]

I was also diagnosed with Graves when I was in my 20s. I remember going to the doctors and saying I think I have Graves (I lost 15kg in 3 months, hands shaking constantly, resting heartrate was 130bpm etc) and they said it's very unlikely I have it as it's generally much more common in women. Lo and behold I did have it, it upturned my life for years because it was so severe (my endocrinologist ended up submitting my records to a medical journal because it was so extreme). And I've still never met another guy who had it!

[@wen4657]

I’m also diagnosed with Graves when I was 20. Feeling alone dealing with all the symptoms but looking forward to better days! :)

[@saladgame]

I got Graves and Hyperthyroidism about 10 years ago. The main point is I am very much an active person and, till today I can get breathless in 10 minutes just jogging. There are other side effects of medication hindering my work. I may not suffer physical pain as much as Abrial but people still look at my "popping" eye. Really hate it so much and still cant get to terms to it.

[@coldwc]

I'm in my early 40s and just diagnosed with Graves (lost 10kg in 1.5 months) after experiencing extreme stress. The worst is not being able to even stand up as my thigh proximal muscles might give way suddenly. Now just trying to reconfigure my lifestyle and stress level.

[@user-vz1cf5hd2z]

​@@dfgndfghdfghdfgh hi Marco I was exactly the same was diagnosed with Graves 7 years ago what bothered me most and it took me a long time to come to terms with I'm still not completely use to it is the difference in my physical appearance I have/had Graves eye disease as well

[@HaiHai-qy5py]

Finally, there is some amount of media coverage on such illnesses. It's pretty sad to see that many people just believe that a person who looks normal may be normal and not know that such a person has a hidden medical condition. And this helps show people that sometimes diseases aren't able to be seen on the outside.

[@RayMak]

Pray that he will recover. Autoimmune disorders are really tough to live with.

[@Mushmush88]

Living with Lupus for 11 years, there were times where i can't even pick up a piece of paper. I hope all autoimmune warriors feels better! ❤ shoo shoo all flares!

[@dariusaudryc9958]

In the past, I would try to sympathise. But now, after being diagnosed with lung cancer at the age of 29, and now that I am getting better, I can relate to how unaware people are of invisible pain. My pain comes more from the side effects of the chemo treatment, which accumulated after 2++ years of treatment. It has been a lonely journey. And I can also relate to how people will judge me when I get tired quickly, tho I am still in my early 30. Even when there are so many of us who are fighting invisible pain, we don’t reach out. Awareness is super important, but I also want to encourage those fighting with hidden pain to reach out to others. It is hard, especially if we want to be seen as our identity rather than our illness. But no one will ever understand if we never tell people. Thanks for sharing

[@renee6066]

Good luck with your treatment!! Hope you look into cancer support groups in your area. My friend says it helped more than she initially thought it could. You might even be able to help someone else at the start of their journey

[@beethao9380]

Its not that we don't reach out. Its the stupid doctors and society that won't believe us.

[@msCarmell99]

Recently diagnosed with AS and my Dysthymia was triggered by said diagnosis, to the point were I can't hide my depression towards my coworkers no matter how hard I tried... I know this condition is not fatal, but being that I am very jumpy and active before to my current pains and minimal movements, it's such a drastic change to my lifestyle, and watching this documentary somewhat helps me process through my current feelings

[@littleorange6361]

I was diagnosed with autoimmune disease but no doctors can pinpoint what. I was a healthy, young person until I got so sick one day all of a sudden which put me on medical leave for 3 months. I had to re-learn how to walk, pick things up, drive in proper position etc and I'm recovering ( or at least get better). Thank you for posting his video. It also feels like a hug for me.

[@Pattayaman999]

Feel sorry for Mr. Pang. I was in a recent motorcycle accident. Difficult to get out of bed. But recovered in weeks. I can't imagine living with an autoimmune disease. Wish him the very best.

[@twinklysoul]

As someone whose been diagnosed with Lupus (SLE) & Rheumatoid Arthritis since 2019, I'm glad invisible illnesses has been brought to light. We might look fine on the outside but we're also battling joint pains that comes and goes whenever there are flareups even at a young age.

[@assiatoudiallo7271]

Same for me I also have Lupus. I feel u😢

[@malerratnam5796]

This is an excellent documentary! I have an auto immune condition too. I can feel the pain that these people have been dealing with. We need more of this sharing

[@LindieBotes]

Thanks for this insightful documentary. My fiancé struggles with chronic fatigue and a few chronic bacterial infections and it's true the flare-ups are the worst. Change of season (here in the southern hemisphere) is the worst time :( I wish you all the best Abrial, jia you!

[@shivpathak6996]

Thank you for letting people who are suffering silently every single day feel heard for once. It’s finally a step in the right direction for sure 💪🏻

[@fletcherkhoo4389]

Abrial is a very positive, forward looking, hard working and a very commited insurance agent. (He is my insurance agent and family friend) Even though he has this condition, he will always maintain a positive outlook. He is very focused, knows what hat he wants to achieve and strive will for his future. It is inspiring that he doesn't allow this physical set back to hinder his desire to live well and normal. In fact he exercise and train to maintain his physiques than better than most of us!

[@ryany.7791]

If u really know him personally, please let him know to take the following supplements: 1) Vit D3 (20,000IU daily) with Vit k2 mk7 and with Magnesium Glycinate to help aborption and help relax muscles, 2) Turmeric (the meriva variety), 3) Omega 3 I have his condition too

[@QuinLow2910]

Thank you Abrial for sharing your story, couldn't have said it better. I was diagnosed with lupus (SLE) in 2006 at the tender age of 14. There's countless ups and downs over the years, including flare ups and multiple treatment resistant. Lots of tears were shed throughout the pain and failures of my body responding to the medications prescribed, but I am lucky I had a very loving and strong support system (family, friends, colleagues) and I managed to cross paths with some of the best doctors who were willing to take risks with me by trying different approaches to contain the SLE. After graduation, I had to give up going overseas for studies or applying for scholarships because I had flare ups (they rejected me anyway even though my results were brilliant, maybe because I was a liability since I declared my condition). However, I was very blessed that most of my employers were understanding of my condition and allowed me concessions when I need to take days off to see the doctor or when I am in pain. I also had alopecia, mild RA, lupus nephritis, plantar fasciitis and depression. There were days where my soles were so inflammed and swollen till I couldn't fit them into my flip flops. It's totally not an exaggeration to say that sometimes painkiller does not even soothe the pain. I even took my crutches to work. There were dark days where I actually had su*cidal thoughts. Only people who went through the pain will really understand how bad it gets, and the mental strength that you need to pull through everyday. Fast forward to 2022, I managed to wean off steroids and immunosuppressants that I have been taking for 16 years. Finally medication and pain free now! I managed to move to Singapore for work and I'm grateful. I'm trying to live my life to the fullest, and I constantly try to create awareness about SLE on my socmed. I always tell people around me that I do not want sympathy or handouts, I am just like you and me, I work for what I want. To date I still get people saying to me that I don't look sick, but now I am prepared to educate them!

[@1337hacks]

I have a form of spondyloarthritis that flares up very badly every few years. I can definitely relate to Abrial's desire to stay fit and active because when you're in constant pain, you will treasure every moment that your body allows you to move freely. Unfortunately there will be people who will never want to understand the physical pain that people with autoimmune diseases go through, but life is still worth going through despite all that judgement.

[@bijoux900823]

Yes, highly agreed that life is still worth going through despite all the challenges

[@anthonyow5750]

I have AS for 30 years since I was 18 years old. People in my workplace doesn’t understand what I am going through even though I look normal outside. Due to flare ups 20 days medical leave every year is consider normal as we really can't control the pain and lethargy. Hope the authorities or government can do more to help us create awareness so that we are understood. Ultimately, getting the support from our superior/employer and acknowledging what we are going through without any discrimination.

[@JesChan-t5q]

Totally feel him. I used to get gossiped about & had my performance discounted cos I was taking MC all the time. Truth is, NOBODY enjoys feeling shitty & being sick. And there are loads of “invisible” conditions. So people really oughta learn to stop gossiping based on assumptions cos the damage is real.

[@chanjr]

Truly an excellent documentary shedding light on autoimmune diseases and disorders around us. To Abrial and all of the commenters suffering from similar ailments, hang in there!

[@maraluarte6645]

As a person who has heart failure at 29 years old, this is so relatable. Its hard to explain to people that even if we appear "normal" everyday, it doesn't mean that we are feeling good too. Sometimes, it takes so much energy to pull yourself from the pain and anxiety that the condition brings.

[@Mantras-and-Mystics]

Hey me too! In fact I use a wheelchair when I'm out, but can't propel it myself due to extreme weakness, fatigue and of course breathlessness. I had a "carer" come and I asked her to put the wheelchair in the car. She looked me up and down pointedly and said, "And who's the wheelchair for?" I'm tired of explaining, but had to. All she said was, "Well you LOOK alright." Wonder why she thought I had a carer in the first place?

[@CLONDONH]

Love this documentary and thanks Abrial for bringing awareness to this (and many other forms of) invisible suffering. His positivity is amazing!

[@lenzluwaihong1145]

Abrial, I can fully understand when you said you struggled to get up from bed. Me too, suffer the same AS. When it flare up.... no one understand how it feels except your body. Getting up and out of bed is the greatest struggle. Stay strong!

[@marciturner4980]

I have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis which gradually started at age 18. No one believed me, family and primary physician for a long time. So I was forced to do everything myself for over a year without any pain medications. Now it's severe because of neglecting checking blood and catching it sooner. Severe right now and Rx meds are not helping. Saw my Rheumatologist this morning and getting put on another Rx med with the present one for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Community in city I am in now are more supportive and understanding because they are going through Rheumatoid Arthritis themselves. Rheumatoid Arthritis is common here in my present city; alot of people has Rheumatoid Arthritis. Now I am age 42.

[@divasjudge]

This is really a good documentary showing an example of autoimmune disease. This will hug all the people experiencing it. Hope more people see this video.

[@lyw02]

As a 21 year old who was diagnosed at 16, thank you for sharing and bringing awareness !

[@nora.han.r9]

Thank you Abrial and CNA. I can so totally relate and understand. I was diagnosed with autoimmune condition, Sjögren’s Syndrome in October 2020, and I had to remain silent about it. People go like “huh, what is that? You look perfectly normal & healthy”… What they don’t see is the debilitating days of chronic fatigue that I can just shut down & the super dry eyes and the difficulty eating. I was also diagnosed with early onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis when I was in early 20s. And I have had spinal fusion done with titanium implant in the spine, which makes “hidden disability” my best friend. I have since to be forgiving of others who laughs or jokes or stares ignorantly, but it gets very demoralizing at times. Thank you Abrial - your sharing gives inspiration to a lot of people. God bless.

[@SS-rb4cc]

I'm 24 with an auto immune disease.I do have pain in joints all the time.I was put to live with one hell of a roomate,she would say hurtful stuffs like I'm faking my disease,if I'm ill,i should behave/dress up like a patient-(like not to dressup good).callin me ugly tho i beleive I'm not. After all these,she would apologise since she felt bad about saying all these to me. I don't want to but i wish she should live my life atleast one day to realise how toxic she was to me.Humans shall be human enough.Thanks abrial for ur story❤

[@chingjunkoh9714]

Thanks Abrial and CNA for making this video to spread awareness about Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). I was diagnosed with AS too in 2017. There were times when the flares were so bad that I couldn’t even walk. The feeling is as though there are weights weighing you down and your mobility gets affected. Thanks so much again for making this episode to spread awareness. Jiayou for those who are fighting against this illness. 💪❤️

[@pikapikapikachu6679]

Be strong, Abrial. I wish you all the best.

[@m.y.o.b6319]

It is so good to share this vid around to let more ppl understand these groups of ppl, invisible autoimmunity illness is the worse among all chronic disease bc outlook of the person just look so fine but literally they’re suffering all levels of pains & discomfort within themselves w no one able to know to see to feel to understand it unless one’s able to feel it themself then probably will be able to understand how tough it is.

[@janeychee7161]

I can't believe how society likes to find fault even with little things that do not matter, such as what kind of bag we choose to carry. It's already difficult enough with fighting and struggling to keep up with life, the demands of life and live each day while enduring the illness, pain and fatigue. Seriously, I used to ask why is there always something wrong with me. Now, I always ask what is wrong with the minds of society.

[@fauzianalwoga]

People are just crazy

[@AlexLevineFitness]

Wow this really hit home, I am a 35 year old personal trainer with Ankylosing Spondylitis, I was also diagnosed around 25. Keep going folks!!

[@naz756]

Thank you, Abrial for being brave and sharing with us your story. It mustn’t have been easy.

[@TinyHouseOfHorrors]

As someone with Myasthenia Gravis, I completely understand where he is coming from. But his drive to continue life is amazing.

[@meloon8940]

This is so relatable on many levels, though I would say mine is on a much lesser degree. I am diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and the severity of it really varies day to day, based on diet and from person to person. The worst part of it is when you bring it up to work colleagues or peers, they seem to not take it seriously or judge you as trying to malinger, especially the major trigger for me which is alcohol and anything spicy. Luckily for me, I do have close friends who understand and are more understanding to me explaining what it is and willing to research on their own what the disease is like, which I am greatful for.

[@draikystories]

I was also diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. When the flare was really bad, I took the opposite direction on the MRT just to get a seat. I will not take the reserve seat and I will not wear the yellow tag too. I felt that people should learn not to judge one another. The biggest flare I had was after one month I took my 2nd covid shot. I cannot climb my office staircase at all and I have to quit my job. After resting for 6 month, my condition is so much better and I am living a normal life again. I took the 3rd covid shoot and nothing happen to my body.

[@sunnygal12345]

I have RA too and my condition was quite serious during covid, this was a reason why i never took the covid shot because the risk was too great.

[@patq1091]

Thanks for making this episode about AS. I have been suffering from AS for almost 18years and people around me doesn't understand what I went through and am still going through when it flares up. Watery eyes while watching it as I can really relate.... 😢

[@MrAlvinSinfulSong]

My symtoms started since Primary School, finally diagnosed when I was in Secondary School a decade ago and now I'm 27 with Ankylosing Spondylitis. Keep going on man! I feel you.

[@jchua210]

Thank you CNA Insider and Abriel for creating this meaningful video. It sends positive vibes to those suffering from invisible illness. Let’s hope this creates awareness to the public and also employers to support this group.

[@laradhi25]

Hi Abrial, I feel what you go thru cos I am one of them.. People hardly understands the pain we have as its invisible.. life goes on and this too shall pass.. thanks for your sharing

[@dawn3954]

I have chronic anxiety and I can totally relate to Adrial’s condition. Although mine is mental struggle, but I can look really sick in front of people when my anxiety hits. I hope that this society can be kinder to people who has invisible illness and don’t judge by what they see.

[@sidewalkslam]

CNA and Adriel, I'm so glad I saw this yesterday, you guys have really done a lot for awareness on this invisible condition. I was grocery shopping earlier and spotted a guy standing on the road, and he seemed to want to cross over to the divider, but just couldn't. I initially thought it was some sort of insurance scam - he looked fit, young (about the same age as I am) and dressed well. But I felt fearful as the road was quite dark and oncoming traffic was just coming at him. He was looking at the traffic but just couldn't move and was sweating profusely. If it weren't for this video, I wouldn't have gone to accompany him over, and stopping the passing traffic. He was truly so much in pain that he couldn't even speak. It seems like his knee or leg was in pain. It didn't help that some passerbys stopped to try to gawk but it became abit of a social commentary "if he is sick, he shouldn't come out...he should use a wheelchair etc." I was hoping so hard he didn't hear these comments. So...thank you, thank you. Thank you Adriel, for sharing your story. I really hope for the best for you!!

[@Itsmaytoclopramide]

Although Im not officially diagnosed with Marfan's Syndrome and EDS. I have been living with hypermobility and joint laxity. I can totally relate to Abrial Pang living with somewhat an "invisible disability". Some days are good and some days are bad. Am tight at the wrong places due to certain reason. We seem "normal" to others but deep internally its hard for people to understand us. Muscle does not gets turn on because my body is kind of "desensitize" to it. Totally get the bag pack part as for someone with thoraco-lumbar scoliosis. The weight shift is real. Thanks for sharing this story. Do what you can with what you have. its a challenge definitely (esp finding fitness industry or health-wellness people) to get people to really understand what we're going through.

[@keishawee6909]

Thank you for sharing your story. Although I don't suffer from any autoimmune disease, I have other invisible health conditions that make daily life and activities a little bit harder. I related so much with standing on the train and needing to sit but being a young adult - people cannot tell that there's anything wrong with me but I feel the pain anyway. Invisible illnesses are something that people still don't understand too much of, so this video really was an eye-opening perspective. Thank you, Abrial and CNA.

[@lianejaz]

Me too 🥲

[@ShelleyM007]

I’m sure he makes many female hearts flutter with his good looks, and his beautiful inner soul shines through. Abrial obviously has a very high EQ so thank you for making people aware of these horrible invisible conditions. Also, as someone who has young family members with RA, I still feel optimistic about future medical cures. I have to remain optimistic because the fact that the long term treatment medication currently is methotrexate worries me greatly.

[@AnotherWittyUsername.]

The biologics have been a life changer for some people. Unfortunately most insurance companies/Pharmacare programs will make people try methotrexate first before they will cover a biologic though. Your family members should ask their Rheumatologist about them.

[@ShelleyM007]

@@AnotherWittyUsername. They are children and their parents say they are confident in the panel of specialists overseeing their wellness, but thank you.

[@glimjumps]

This video is so important and more should watch this. As a person who was diagnosed with a rare chronic disease with very invisible symptoms in my 20s, I can relate so much to Abrial.

[@noelbmagalona]

Huge respect to you Abrial and to everyone who has auto immune diseases who's still fighting it.

[@sarahjane-n2d]

Glad this video was made to let people know about AS - it's amazing to see ppl down with the condition remain so positive...I do hope with greater awareness through various channels, there would also be lesser need to explain/clarify the condition over again and ppl will be less skeptical towards this invisible condition, God bless always! 😊

[@daveh1194]

Abrial, please keeps going. I am sure your story will make positive impact to a lot of others suffering in silence.

[@stevensteven4388]

Indeed, the most difficult sickness are the ones that don't make you look sick enough, as others can't understand.

[@csocianu]

You are not alone. We understand your struggles. Auto immune disorder here, too. More than 5 years until had an diagnosis. Several different doctors visited per year. Reviewed completely my life, eliminated a lot of triggers and live a simple boring life, reduced alimentation to 20 ingredients from autoimmune spectrum, I am far away better. I am fixed? No. But I am far away better.

[@audreywonggggg]

I also recently got juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 2021, i suffer the same joint pain in my SI joints and this year is my O level year. I struggle with juggling with school work as I’m also sick since I’m on immunosuppressants and sometimes i feel like my teacher and friends doubt me and just assume I’m just pinning school. My family members also aren’t the most understanding of it and I’m currently still struggling with accepting my condition and very often break down emotionally asking myself why it had to be me to get such a thing, why do i have such a condition at such a young age. This video made me feel understood and i really appreciate bringing such awareness! I feel you too abrial!

[@felix-xd4mx]

if we have fatigue, ppl say "you think im not tired? everybody is tired". if we have joint pain and arthritis they don't get the pain, they say "but you're still young, isn't it just muscle aches? i have muscle aches too". or "you look fine, you gained weight so you must be heallthy" when it's the effect of the meds that makes you bloat. it's tiring.

[@tiffanyyang794]

Abrial, your fighting spirit is something I would like to keep close to our hearts! Appreciate your courage to share. Jiayous! 😊

[@myeongwol]

This is a very much needed documentary. Many times, people assume a person is fine just because he is young and looks well. But they forget many disease can't be seen physically. I have IgA Nephropathy disease (autoimmune kidney disease), and although i dont look sick, i may feel tired sometimes, or i may reject food that may affect my kidneys. But people who dont understand will mock me of being over health-concious. Fck that. You don't know what battle a person is fighting with, so always be kind.

[@wysrl]

Thanks for sharing your story. I am also suffering from an immunodermatology condition called Pemphigus Vulgaris and is on steroids daily to suppress the immunity system. Likewise when the disease is under control, there’s no symptoms but when it flares up, it feels like the world came crashing down. People around tbh don’t really understand what autoimmune sufferers go through so I appreciate you sharing your story.

[@ikovenus]

The literal of don't judge a book by it's cover. We never know what ones go through. Just because we looks fit and young doesn't mean we don't struggle inside. I myself totally get this! I have HNP condition which can very painful even to walk, sit or stand. Thank you for being brave to share and speak up, Abrial! We needed to be reminded to always be kind

[@Alexmarshall15]

I have Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain disorder but this is just sooo relatable that i am speechless cause i have been bedridden cause of pain.Not able to work cause i can't sit or stand for more than a few minutes due to pain. So yeah i face the stigma a lot.But i am learning to live with it and trying to manage it.

[@nadiabrook7871]

Alex, I can empathise!! I have fibromyalgia too, as well as osteoarthritis!! It's not easy, but you do learn to live with it and manage it!!

[@yangmumingsg]

"Always give people a second chance regardless of the first impression... we won't know the story behind the beautiful face." It's tough... thank you for raising awareness and also being the voice for many in similar situation...

[@marcusthegreat7134]

i relate alot to this but my condition is not as serious, im glad to see others flourishing even with such set backs. it makes me feel like i can move forward as well

[@NFei-sf8ri]

I have SLE so I totally feel u. When the flares came up, nothing could be done and just had to endure. Painkillers sometimes work or nothing at all. Especially after work, going back home taking LRT/train. Also had to take frequent sick leave due to frequent fever. Some didn't even believe I was sick since I was completely fine the day before that. I also couldn't even join sports event especially ones organized by my own workplace since I could get joint pain & fever. Those who're not close to me totally accused me of 'just wanting to skip' or 'too lazy' etc.

[@Korwinexile]

I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis when I was 20, mine was very aggressive and I couldn't walk for a month, it was in 1990. I have been living with it for 33 years. Sometimes it is too much to bear, the people still don't understand chronic pain and depression that comes with it. I take life one day at a time and I stopped caring what people think of me. I went to law school and graduated, but didn't practice long, because I suffered a complete physical and mental burnout. I am not giving up, hoping to get more fit and try to do it part-time.

[@bijoux900823]

Never give up! You're not alone! Each and everyone of us also experienced the physical and mental burnout every once in a while.

[@bijoux900823]

@@melomelooons6733 I feel you. Each of us are constantly experiencing this cycle in every stages of our life. Give yourself a little more time before you could gather yourself and start the next journey again. Don't give up!

[@knock-knockwhosthere9933]

Did you resign from your lawyer membership or association thingy?

[@WWK186]

As Abrail mentioned, living with an auto immune condition requires one to be in tune with his/her body. Adjusting your lifestyle might be the wisest thing to do to have a better quality of life and not have to explain so much. I suffer from RA as well and can understand the sacrifice you have made.

[@tamarielle1540]

As a 26 years old with arthritis it’s so comforting to see this However, I have to hide it since I am in the Navy or I will be discharged so it’s a mental pressure as well as a physical one Stay strong Abrial, we can do it !

[@freddielim9245]

I'm also a fellow AS patient. Abrial u should consider consult your doctor whether you are suitable Infliximab infusion treatment. Cause I'm on infliximab treatment for the past 8 years and it really helps.

[@kimmytan6573]

I think it’s such a courageous decision for you to share your invisible illness n I m glad that there is a support group to share n encourage each other. You are a very positive young man n I believe God will bless you with the right spouse n have your own children.

[@acq8097]

Stay strong Abrial! God Bless you!🙏

[@lionelmessithegoatLM10]

I hope his conditions becomes better. Wish him a happy and healthy life. Blessing to everyone in the world. I hope all the sufferings in the world ends soon or become less🙏🙏

[@vincentkhoo3467]

Really impressed with your positivity Abrial, choosing to stay strong despite your condition. Many others would have gone the easy way even to the extend of feeling entitled due to their conditions. You are really an inspiration!

[@Drtharodermatologist]

You got me!!! I’m also an autoimmune disease affected person (psoriasis). My bone, my skin, and especially malaise that people would occasionally joke why I’m looking tired, lack of strength. It’s so troubling especially when it flares up.

[@smallorbits]

I’m often tempted to tell my colleagues about my chronic pain but it’s just this gut feeling that being honest might make me a liability. So we learn to mask and get a weirdly high pain tolerance. Hope this is discussed more and everyone will be a little more understanding.

[@trulyawesome]

I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder 11 years ago. My disease unfortunately is visible on my face, whenever I have a flare-up, I will have swelling and rashes on my face. People would comment on my rashes etc, some comments can be quite caustic. Unlike the people in the video, I wish very hard that my disease will be invisible. I avoid joining any support groups cos I want to focus on living my life rather than my disease. Like many others with such conditions,, I avoid telling people about my disease cos I don't want to start explaining and answering questions or get pitiful stares and looks. But I thank the people in this video for trying to create awareness about people like me.

[@豪意诗吗]

There no such as specified reserve seats in the mrt, anyone are free to seat...and any seats is priority seats to be given up if someone is needed more!!!!

[@elizabeth3405]

Thank you for being so brave as to share your story. I have rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogrens disease, and I can attest to all that you deal with regarding an invisible disease. Unfortunately now, I am experiencing outward joint deformity and it causes me a great deal of stress thinking that everyone is looking at my hands. It’s so unfortunate that we cannot deal with our challenges openly without fear of job loss or disbelief. Many blessings to you and your continued journey ~ much love from America 🌸🌺💛

[@ahn0x]

Y'all have no idea how badly this country treats those who have invisible illnesses, neurodivergence, disabilities, or any sort of different human experience, it's actually downright atrocious. Especially in this pressure-cooker hustle-culture society we've been told "is necessary".

[@AliHamdhan]

I can relate to him. Been living with rheumatoid arthritis since the age of 24. NSAIDs have been a lifesaver as it helps me to function normally as an adult as it keeps flare ups at bay.

[@iinrisam5847]

Thank you for bringing up awareness on autoimmune disease in young adults who are expected to be in their "prime" condition!

[@Huvc35]

Actually they should hv this card that is automatically issued by the health institute that states u are in need of seats (be it handicap persons or pregnant women or ppl with 'hidden' conditions like this) there should be seats allocated in every cabin that has a beep sensor to fold down whenever someone has this card with him/her. And when finished using it will be auto lifted up again to make space for people to stand.

[@Perseus-rz4ds]

I just found this vid, and it really helped me a lot to face the reality, i just diagnosed with RA at the age of 20, i feel ashamed that i should suffered this disease at such a young age when i should've been productive. The hardest part was when people tend to jugde you because you look young, and strong, and still can do many things properly, the pain is invisible cause we're forced to hide it. Stay strong for all of the people that face the same thing❤❤❤❤ and wish y'll a happy live❤❤❤

[@lydiat5819]

I have Graves' Disease which can be controlled through medication but the symptoms still continue though not too debilitating. I cannot agree more with a fellow autoimmune disease sufferer that besides the physical discomfort, the most frustrating aspect is the foggy brain which can be downright embarrassing. I told my friends in advance about this foggy braine problem and they accepted it but when it happened, they simply could not comprehend and kept asking me, " ... but we agreed only last night, right ? It was clearly mentioned in the group chat, right ? What gave you the idea that we should meet at that wrong location ? blah blah blah ...." And then I have another "close" friend who questioned me whether I self diagnosed the illness, who the tell want to fake an illness ???? Sometimes, it is better to be alone.

[@NinaPratiwi07]

Thank you for sharing and hope it will help more people aware of autoimmune diseases. I was diagnosed with autoimmune disease (haemolytic anaemia) when I was 26. I chose to hide it because of my job (event industry). There were days I had to struggle to walk due to extreme fatigue and couldn’t to get works done, hospitalised 3-4 times a year to get blood transfusion. It was devastating especially because I couldn’t perform well for the company and job that I loved. By the end of my contract, I took a 6 months break, spent 10 days at hospital. Then, I worked in another company, learnt to accept my condition which I believe helps me a lot to stay fit without blood transfusion longer. It’s been 10 years, there are things that I can’t do like I used to. I’ve learnt to live with my condition and through daily (gentle and light) exercise and a balance diet; I don’t experience flare ups as often. I don’t take autoimmune suppressant anymore (only when I am being hospitalised) for the past 5 or 6 years because whenever I take it for a long period of time I experience an uncomfortable pain in my joints. The positive side is that it teaches me to be grateful for every little thing in life. Sending love ❤️