Dear Gems from Jen,

I’m 23, and for the past two years I have been living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I am only just beginning to date, and I’m not sure how to tell guys about my condition. It’s bound to come up in conversation because I am unable to work full time as a result of the CFS. I want to be able to tell a date about my CFS in a way that won’t scare him off or make him feel sorry for me, and I have no idea how to do this! What should I say?

Dear Illness,

I always say honesty is the best policy! I think you might be surprised by the number of people who are facing similar dilemmas. Just because you have an illness does not make you any less of a person. My suggestion would be to tell the people you are interested in getting to know better sooner rather than later. I know if I were on the other end and meeting someone who had a chronic condition I would want to know about it. Don’t allow this condition to detour you though. There are plenty of guys out there looking for a quality person. I wouldn’t spend my time worrying about what other people may or may not think or feel. Spend your time meeting people you are compatible with and enjoy this time.

Signed,

Gems from Jen