PCS Survivor
My name is Omar.
I have been diagnosed with popped-collar syndrome (PCS).
For those who are not familiar, let me explain. Let's say I'm wearing a collared shirt. If I sit and focus on any one thing for more than a few minutes at a time, it is not uncommon for me to later discover that during that time, my collar has somehow been raised. I have no recollection of ever popping my collar. Ever. Yet this happens, almost daily.
Most often, I don't discover it until someone says to me something like, "hey, you bringing the popped collar look back?" or "are you one of those metrosexuals?" The answer to both of those questions is no. No I am not.
Early on, I was actually worried that I was suffering from some sort of narcolepsy, and friends/co-workers were adjusting my collar as I slept. However, after being observed by several doctors, experts have conclusive video evidence that I am the one doing the collar-popping.
This is a condition that seldom goes unnoticed, yet often goes undiagnosed. The cause is not known, and there is currently no cure. It frequently invites attention and ridicule. I have spent years being afraid of PCS and when it would present itself. When I go to the doctor's office and they ask me if I have any pre-existing conditions, I've always said no. I always find myself worrying, thinking "what will they think?"
I'm writing this post because I can't continue to be afraid. I refuse to let PCS rule my life any longer. I may have PCS, but I do not suffer from it. I will not suffer from it. If I should find my collar popped, I will wear it with pride. It is part of who I am.
Comments
Cate said:
I think you should post this conclusive video evidence. For the good and health of the internet, of course.
cadiz12 said:
perhaps your neck is cold and you're subconsciously trying to use your collar as a shield against the wind. i suggest you wear one of those mock turtlenecks underneath, you know the ones without sleeves or a body. that would make things warmer and may inspire another fashion trend altogether.
elasticwaistbandlady said:
cadiz, Those mock turtleneck things are called, "dickies". I'm sure Omar, being the stylish dude he is already owns an extensive collection of dickies in a rainbow of colors.
Upon first reading of this a couple hours ago I kept seeing it as POOPED collar system. With six kids and humongous pigeons nesting outside our front door I have had many pooped collar encounters. I feel your pain, Omar, as I am also a PCS victim and survivor. Whisk detergent is the touted cure for PCS, but it only treated the stinky symptoms leaving behind unmistakable marks on my collar that shamefully identifies me as suffering with PCS.
Lianne said:
PCS is usually caused by negative energy coming from your throat chakra.
Duh.
You need to see a pet psychic. (And believe it or not, this is the third time today I have given that advice. Must be some kinda weirdass astral alignment, huh?)
Glo said:
If it weren't so inappropriate, I'd say that PCS is HOT - in my Paris Hilton voice, of course.
jasmine said:
i was with you until the point where you say, "i will wear it with pride."
that's when you lost me. as a friend. forever.
don't be a tool. if you do it by accident, that's one thing. but please PLEASE fix the thing when you notice it!
I said:
cate - I'll see what I can do.
cadiz - Actually, my running theory is that it's because I have an absurdly sensitive sense of touch, and I hate it when I feel like things are unexpectedly touching my neck. (Not that anyone loves that.)
elastic - Did you just say that I own an extensive collection of dickies? Please tell me you didn't just say I have an extensive collection of dickies.
lianne - A pet psychic? I was about to say that I've never had a pet, but I get the feeling that fact isn't related to why you offered that advice...
glo - Thanks for holding back.
jasmine - To clarify, when I said "wear it with pride," what I really meant was I'd lower my collar casually rather than doing it in a fit of embarrassment. Honest!
dzet said:
I too suffer from a syndrome which I hear medical experts everywhere are trying to find a cure.
It is the My Shoelaces Gets Untied And Tie Themselves Together And Make Me Fall Flat On My Face In The Street And Everyone Laughs At Me Syndrome(MSGUATTTAMMFOMFITSAELAMS). I call it MO-FO for short.
You are not alone in your suffering.
Gia said:
I was 3/4 the way through your post before I caught on that it was a shirt you were talking about and not your collarbone.
If you're gonna pop with pride, at least make it a loud shirt. I'd go for lime green.
PS Like the avatar headband
Syar said:
I had a vague comment here, until I noticed the delicious word of the day.
now I feel the need to urge everyone not to pop their patootie.
Becky
said:
heh heh... patootie.
Katie said:
Your strength has motivated me. Truly, your journey and struggles have been epic. ::wipes away tear:: We're here for you, man!
elasticwaistbandlady said:
Does this mean that you don't own an extensive collection of lovely and fashionable dickies, Omar? Now, everyone here knows what to buy you for a special occasion.
I refer to my toddler, Melody, as COOTIE PATOOTIE. Nice.
Radioactive Cootie said:
Sweet...
Becky
said:
heh heh... cootie.
Lianne said:
Hey, at least I didn't tell you to get a psychic pet. that would be far worse.