09/12/2024
Lupus sucks. As many of you know, I've been battling this and other autoimmune diseases for most of my life. This summer, however, has been one of my most challenging. From being in the hospital for weeks to countless trips to the emergency room and numerous doctors, it's been a tough time.
I'm relieved that summer is over and I’m hopeful that fall will be kinder to my body. I always try to put on a smile and make others around me laugh, but it's been difficult lately. Chronic illnesses affect you mentally just as much as they do physically, and I've been battling not just my physical health but my mental health too.
I share this not to seek sympathy but to remind everyone to check in on their loved ones. If someone is struggling with an illness, they're probably struggling internally as well. Despite everything, I haven't let it stop me from pursuing my dreams and goals. I've started my marketing journey and many of you have reached out for help with social media and marketing needs. If I haven’t replied yet, I will get back to you this week.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is grace. I need to give myself grace to heal and extend grace to those around me. We never know what someone is battling, and while most people don’t want to be treated differently or given special treatment, everyone can practice and appreciate grace and understanding.
More grace is what this world needs. At 26, I’m just learning how to give myself the grace and understanding my body needs. I hope this update helps someone out there. My goal is to use my life and even my struggles to educate and impact others positively. Even when I’m gone (hopefully not for a long time), I want to have left a meaningful impact on the world.
Thank you all for your support and understanding. 💜
