[And just then, Rhys too took on a startled position, realizing the impact of what he said. He held up a quick hand reassuringly.]

Oh, I didn't mean to make you pity me! I was just impressed with your condition, is all. I won't deny that mine's a bit of a burden, but whenever it bears down on me, I like to remember that everyone else has their own to shoulder. Some people probably have it much worse than me...