The idea of doing what you must for the good of your health goes right along with “Managing Your Disease.” This means doing what is necessary to stay healthy without feeling guilty or ashamed about doing so. Now, I’m not saying you should cop an attitude, and demand everybody bow down at your command to fulfill your every need, though that might be nice. What I mean is this.
If you’re in school and have special privileges to eat and drink in class—a topic I will discuss further in Section 15" "Going to School"—don’t be embarrassed about using those necessary privileges. If you have an open pass to go to the restroom as you need, use it responsibly and don’t feel bad for doing so. If you have a need to take a coat with you everywhere you go so you don’t get cold, try not to worry about what others think. If you are out with friends and need to stop to eat or rest, speak up and take care of yourself.
Do what you need to do to stay healthy. Take care of your body and medical needs. Don’t risk a pain crisis or hospitalization. Chances are, if you’re open about your health problems with your friends—which I’ll talk more about in Section 7: "Telling People You Have Sickle Cell"—you won’t have to worry about being embarrassed. Your friends will want to help you stay healthy.
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