Dear Chico's~

I know it's unusual for someone to write you an open letter but I have reasons that, if you'll hear me out, makes complete sense.

I live with what they call an "invisible Illness," an incurable disease that I've had for more than half of my life. When people see me they don't know I have Multiple Sclerosis because I look fine. But numbness, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, pain and bladder issues silently plague me every day.

My Chico's outfit was the perfect choice for celebrating Thanksgiving with my in-laws in Florida

But life goes on and so must I. I dedicate myself to three things that make my life complete: Family, friends and work. All three make me grateful to be alive, and help me stay positive in spirit and moving forward.

I loved wearing this comfortable dress for a Saturday night wedding. I received many compliments along with the question, "Where did you purchase it?" (My necklace is also from Chico's)

But life became difficult for me in ways I never imagined. After my diagnosis I didn't feel as beautiful as I used to both inside and out. Pieces of me began to fade away and my self-image took a nosedive. I gained weight from side effects of medications and I was unable to exercise because of my new normal. Enter anxiety and self-doubt.

Chico's makes it easy to decide what to pack for professional events. I feel comfortable and confident in every outfit I wear.

This fun luncheon lasted a few hours and I felt very stylish in my Chico's outfit.

In my late twenties when I was diagnosed gravity hadn't invaded my body, and my waistline hadn't expanded yet. Even after the birth of my son at age thirty-four my body easily bounced back to my pre-pregnancy weight. Fitting back into my regular clothes wasn't a problem. I still felt reasonably good about myself.

I love the vibrant colors of my blouses from Chico's. Their long length looks super over capris. They make lunch out with the ladies or theatre with friends more colorful!

When I was in my forties and my body began to change I was thrilled to find Chico's. Your clothing helped me me feel more beautiful again. That's no small feat.

When my husband and I found out we were going to be interviewed for TV by financial journalist Jean Chatzky I ran to Chico's for advice on what to wear. You did not disappoint. I loved my purchase of this long vest, cowl neck and beautiful necklace. They gave me confidence to be myself.

This Chico's blouse was perfect for a patient advocate event I attended in Miami.

From your Traveler's Collection that never needs ironing - I love no fuss, no muss clothing for business trips when I don't have time to worry about ironing - to your SoSlim pants that are the best fitting jeans I've ever owned, you make my life easier, stylish and more colorful!

A fun work event was made even better while wearing my elegant Chico's jewelry and Travelers pants, camisole and jacket!

A video of my closet would prove I'm not exaggerating about my love affair with Chico's. Your styles compliment my curvy figure and I can mix and match my blouses, vests, trousers, jeans, skirts and dresses in countless ways.

They always make me feel like a million bucks.

[Tweet "How @Chicos clothing made me feel beautiful and took the dis out of ability Thank you #chicos #disability #midlife"]

My photos from the past few years illustrate MY LIFE WITH CHICO'S. Thank you for making me feel good about myself again, and for helping me take the DIS out of ABILITY.

NOTE: I was not paid to write this post. All opinions are, as always, completely my own. I wrote it to let others know how comfortable Chico's is. Each piece is easy to care for and with its high quality material it lasts for years. Chico's clothing is simpler to put on and take off (more than any other clothing I own), making them the perfect choice for the disability and midlife communities.