So I was explaining narcolepsy and cataplexy to my coworker the other day and his reaction was,

“That’s actually really cool.”

….no? No, it’s not?

That’s not the first time I’ve gotten a reaction like that, either. Lately it seems like people often respond with: “That’s super interesting!” “Wow, that’s really unique” or “How cool!”

??? Why ???

Can someone please explain to me what is so “cool” and “interesting” about losing control of my muscles and collapsing in public for an extended period of time? Please elaborate on the “cool” part of being excruciatingly tired no matter what I do, or my grades plummeting because I can’t stay awake or focus on anything.

My illness isn’t some fun fact for you to think is neat and interesting and fascinating. Yeah, you probably didn’t mean any harm with a reaction like that, but please refrain.