What is Desi and Diseased about?

“Desi” is a term generally used to describe those of us who, trace our lineage to the beautiful places including but not limited to India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. I am an Indian who moved to the States at the ripe age of twelve, and I lost my identity along the way. I have always found it difficult to identify who I was, but it was because I felt I had to pick between my American self, Aashi, or my Indian self, Afshin. A year ago, I decided I was not more one person than another, both are me, and this brought about a new era in my life.

“Diseased” is a word used to describe someone who suffers from one or more illnesses, these can be temporary or chronic, ie. lifelong. For example, I have autoimmune conditions (basically my body attacks itself) that I manage with medications and other wondrous items that help me keep by body functioning, most days. My first symptoms began in 2009 and I was diagnosed ten years later with rheumatoid arthritis, beta thalassemia, and 6 months after that, fibromyalgia. This space is designated to help others and myself process the wins as well as grievances of being chronically ill, and cultural obligations that come with being desi.