“But you don’t look sick?!”

If you’ve heard those words, you already know.

There’s a sting to the phrase, “But you don’t look sick.” Maybe you experienced confusion, maybe dismissal, maybe deep frustration. It’s a moment many people living with invisible illness or cancer have faced. And yet, every person’s response tells a different story: strength, pain, humor, resilience, clarity, apathy, or resignation?

We want to share these stories—not just to be heard, but to help shift the conversation. To help put an end to the misunderstanding behind those five words.

Tell us about a time when someone said, “But you don’t look sick.”

• How did it make you feel?
• What did you say—or wish you had said?
• You can respond by video, audio, or text—whatever feels right. Just be yourself. This is your space to be seen and heard.

Why We’re Asking This Question

When someone says “But you don’t look sick,” it may sound innocent—but for many people living with cancer or invisible illnesses, it can feel dismissive, even painful. It overlooks the very real symptoms, emotional struggles, and daily decisions that define life with a serious diagnosis.

We believe that when you share these moments—honestly and in your own words—you not only take back the narrative, you help others find the courage to do the same.

This isn’t about having a “perfect” response. It’s about truth. It’s about giving voice to what so many experience in silence.

Maybe you laughed it off when someone said, “But you don’t look sick.” Maybe you stayed quiet. Maybe you finally said what you’d been holding in for months. Whatever your story is, we want to hear it.

Because your story matters. And it will help someone else feel like they matter, too.

So when you’re ready, hit record. We’re here. We’re listening.