we regret to inform you by Hugh Blackthorne

​we regret to inform you

we regret to inform you 
that you have the wrong
kind of disability

like diabetes
cancer 
or mobility issues

not socially suitable for posters or campaigns
or heart-warming pledge drives

your bipolar is rather uncomfortable for us
peculiar with its unscheduled cycles

no, it’s not a performance issue   
you’re getting your work done

but we kind of wish you were failing
it’d be more considerate of our needs

do fill the required forms in triplicate 
and you’re liable for the all doctor fees

we do hope you understand
about the long term disability
and don’t make a scene on your way out

Hugh Blackthorne writes fiction and poetry. He's a gay trans man living with bipolar. Hugh messes about with old stuff due to an archaeology affliction. His writing has been published by the Scottish Book Trust, P.S. I Love You, The Junction, and on Medium. Hugh lives in the urban wilds of Victoria, Canada, and spends his time trying not to fall into the Pacific Ocean. You can find him on Twitter @hughblackthorne and more of his work on Medium @hugh.blackthorne.

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