Yes, it's changed me a lot too. I don't judge as much when I see someone ill but has no obvious outward signs, I actually feel more sorry for them as I know how that feels and how people automaticlaly assume it's "put on".

My family are good (well my parents are), but the rest of them haven't been too quick to believe me as such and there is always that bit of tension, as though somehow I am exaggerating or I'm putting some of it on.

I guess I'd be the same if i hadn't had this, I might judge also. Easy to do I guess, but the suffering caused by illnesses such as these can hardly be described, they can be tremendous and outdo I think many other illnesses, from the torture of the mind, emotions, spirit and body all at once, all the while showing no external obvious signs, other than looking pale and drawn.