I started my website about 4 months ago. The reason why I started it, was to help people who are going through chronic illnesses and spread awareness to those who aren’t. I have also learned that my illness doesn’t define who I am as a person. I thought I would share with all of you who I actually am, so you can get to know me as a person outside my illness.
- My blog.
I always had a passion for writing, however, I never had anything to write about, until I became ill. I never expected the amount of love and support that I have received. I came to a point in my life where I thought I could either allow this illness to take over my life, or I could take this illness as a learning tool to help others who are going through this. I wanted to use my website to spread positivity and love even through dark times.
- I have a passion for running.
I started running my senior year of high school. It was a way for my mom and I to bond. I have completed 3 half marathons and countless runs to raise money for a cause. Crossing the finish line is one of the most fulfilling, free, and best accomplishment I’ve ever done. Holding my mom’s hand while we crossed the timer was a special moment and created a bond I’ll never forget. I will fight this illness so I can do what I love again.
- Dancing and pageants.
I started dancing when I was about 5. I loved dancing! It was a way for me to share my story and let out my feelings through movement. In 9th grade I started color guard. It was the best choice I’ve ever made. I found amazing friends in that group, and made memories that will last a life time. I started doing local pageants in 11th grade. I also had a blast being on stage, and getting all dolled up. For my talent, I was able to share with the audience dance routines that I wrote. When I get better I can’t wait to do another pageant to share my platform of chronic illness.
- My passion to draw.
Ever since I was able to draw, I fell in love with it. It’s a way for me to let out stress and put my feelings out on paper. I love to see the ending product and be able to feel a sense of accomplishment.
- My family.
My family and my friends have a special place in my heart. They are there for me through the good times and the dark times. I also have so much love for my pets, they truly are family. I can honestly say my family is my rock, my safe haven, my world. I would not be where I am today without the endless support, the everlasting love, and the fun and laughter we share.
Thank you for allowing me to share my story other than my illnesses. I think during hard times, doctors appointments, and not feeling well, it is important to remember the real you. You are not your illnesses, don’t ever let your illness define who you are. Remember, stay positive and keep going forward. β€
Such an important point, because we are indeed more than our illnesses, though often it’s hard to remember who we are underneath and aside from the illnesses, appointments, tests, diagnoses (I think I need to take some time to ‘remember’ who I am again). Thank you for sharing this, and it’s great to get to know a bit more about you!! π
Caz x
Thank you so much!! Writing this post definetely reminded me of who I am. So I highly recommend! Thank you for reading!π
We r always with u dear
Thank you so much!!!
Thanks for sharing your story. Many of us suffer from chronic illnesses. The challenge, among many, is to not let it define us.
Be blessed. God is with you in a mighty way.
Thank you so much, I find it crucial to nor forget who you are and not let your illness define you. Thank You! Best wishes!
Stay strong don’t let it swallow you! We are so much more than our darkness. Love learning more about those I follow. It’s great seeing who people really can be.
Thank You, I won’t! I agree, its important to know about your readers!
You are such an inspiration. My eyes got watery when you talked about your mom and the bond you guys share through running.
Aww, Thank you!!! I appreciate it!! It definetely created a bond!!
Don’t mention it, keep blessing us with your marvelous blog, stay awesome.
Great attitude to life. One day you will run a marathon πππ»ππ»
Thank you!! And yes I will!!! ππͺ
ill and well
sounds
like a good full life
you are living
Thank you so much!! I am thankful to still live a full life despite trials!
yw me too but i m not as active as ye. see? lmao
Nothing what happens with us in this life has the power to define us. And you the perfect example! Kudos!πππππππππ
Aww,Thank you, Swati!! I appreciate it!!! You are the perfect example as well, dear!!! π
ππππ That is so sweet of you Kenzie
Good morning beautiful blondie. I have been reading your nice commentaries in our dear Alyssa’s page but, given that I am.ultra-shy with women, I never dared to look at your own page. Thank you for putting that “like” in my latest blog. I will check your page carefully tomorrow morning. A kiss. Ciao!
Good morning! Thank you so much! I appreciate it!!!
You certainly have a great deal to be grateful for. What lovely pictures, and the story in which you shared.
Thank you so much! Yes I do! Thank you!!
You are really doing great and you are so right, we may never let the illnesses define us, but find ourselves and live anyway π
I’m a little curious after reading About you, where you write different illnesses. English is not my first language and I don’t understand, when you shorten your words. Would you be so kind to explain, what these means? Thank you.
Thank you so much! I have several chronic illnesses. I shortened them because they have long names, I have POTS- postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Basically it means I have low blood pressure and a high heart rate and also a lack of blood flow, so I faint a lot. I have EDS- Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Basically it attacks my joints and cartilage, so my bones pop out of the socket very easily. I have others but I think those are the ones that I shorten! π
Thank you very much for the explanation. I do know few shortened diseases, but these I didn’t hear about before.
You are a strong young woman and I think, you have learned to cope with your possibilities from early age. Even if this is sad, it might have helped you to accept anyway.
Thank you so much for your kind words!!! I appreciate it!!
What a cool post! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much!! Thanks for reading!!
You are so much more than your illness π Great to see your family – love the pics!
Thank you so much, Christy!!! ππ
Enjoy your weekend, sweet you!
Excellent post! So very true, we are so much more than our illnesses. They are a small part of the many sides of us. Just think of all the things you do in a day…..that’s the real you.
I feel like I know you better after you personalized your life.
Thank you, my friend.
Jean
Thank you so much! I appreciate it! And that’s sweet, thank you! π
Hi, its nice to read about our fellow reader’s lives, it puts reality into our blog sites. I’m always commenting and posting about what I’m doing, and I think”π it’s wonderful and helpful to share our experiences.
You’re exactly right! It’s nice to know more about the writer! Thank you!!! π
Ivor in his Leonard Cohen Shirt
https://1drv.ms/i/s!Asumt4cZ9A65g6oCkwtieqvHAq4ISw
Precisely. There are so many things to do, see, touch, experience. Enjoy your journey.
Thank you so much!
Just keep up the good work (writing and living).
Thank you so much!!
So proud of what you were what you are and what you will be I know you can lick this as you have any challenge that you have faced.
Thank you so much!!!!
You are very inspiring!
Thank you so much!!!
You are very welcome. I think my negativity is overpowering most times. It does make me feel good to know people can have a positive and family, friendly and caring. Gives a lot of hope.
Bless you.
Thank you!! Best wishes!
Biggest Hugs!!
Thank you!!!!!
π
Nice to hear more about who you are! π Now I know to look forward to running posts, pageant posts, and maybe see some more of your drawings?
Thank you so much! And definetely more to come in the future!! π
Awesome message!
Thank you so much!
A big hug to you. Loved reading about you. Would love to know you more π
Aww thank you so much!! Can’t wait to know more about you as well!
Interesting facets of autobiography. Anand Bose from Kerala
Thank you!
It is absolutely amazing how alike you and I are. The obvious is we both have to deal with chronic illness and somehow, we both stay positive. We both have a strong passion for writing. I have always found so much comfort in writing because it allows you to get all your emotions out without being interrupted or questioned. We both have a love for our pets. I have said that I think I love my cats more than some people love their human children. Of course I am not saying that people do not love their children but my cats really stole my heart a long time ago. One of our cats we have had for 13 years and the other has asthma so I have to give him medication twice a day. People think that sounds crazy, a cat having asthma but he really has it. He has had few bad attacks when we have had to give him breathing treatments, it was horrible! Also, we have both done pageants. Not many people know this but I was Miss VT Teen when I was 13 years old. It was a crazy time and I still think about it from time to time. I started my blog for a few reasons, one was because of my love to write and the other was because I have a strong desire to help people with illnesses find comfort and wellness. I have been trying to write a post that tells more about me beyond that MS but I keep changing it, so hopefully it will come out soon! Take care and keep your positive attitude, it is infectious!!! Much love, Alyssa!
Wow, we really are so similar!! Thank you so much for sharing your story! Your post will come out soon! At first it was kind of hard at first but once I started writing it pretty much flowed! Can’t wait to get to know you better! Stay positive and keep smiling! Best wishes!! π
I did just do my post but I left out the Miss VT Teen and just kept it kind of simple. It really is funny how once you start writing, it just all comes out the way it should! Best wishes to you as well Sweetie!!
You are a very inspirational person! You inspire people everyday for not giving up in life, and i love your smile! *gives you a big hug* πβ€π«β¨
Thank you so much!! That’s my goal, so thank you for that!!! β€
You are so brilliantly talented!! π Keep that link to who you are underneath the chronic illnesses. It is so crucial for our happiness!
Thank you so much I really appreciate it!!π
Good morning and Happy Sunday Bellissima Bionda This is a great account of a physically taxing but spiritually fulfilling journey that is still going on. Never doubt that your friends and readers are right there next to you to support your efforts when needed. Un grosso baccione. Arrivederci!
Thank you so much! I am very thankful to have amazing and supportive friends and readers! Thank you!!!
You really have a extraordinary attitude
Thank you so much!!
An interesting post. You’re so right about needing to focus on things other than our illness. Well done.
Thank you so much! I used to focus a ton on my illness and I just realized I can’t let my illness define me. Thank you!!!
This is so beautiful and inspiring to many of us, even those of us who don’t have chronic illness. You are not only spreading awareness but encouraging those dealing with it too and have become a pillar of strength to many in your own way. THANK YOU! <3 π
Wow, thank you so much!!! That means so much to me! That’s my goal is to help others to stay strong. And your comment just confirms my point is coming across! Thank YOU!!! β€π
Thanks for giving us more of a glimpse into your life! You have multiple talents and a heart to shine through what would paralyze many. Your story is an inspiration.
Wow, Thank you so much. That is so nice, I appreciate it! π
This was a great post! So great to meet you and learn about who you are outside of your illness. Iβve always wanted to run a marathon, along side my husband. I have yet to do it but I know I will one day! Also, your cat is ADORABLE! πβ€οΈ
Thank you so much!!! You will run a marathon one-day, you’ve got thisπͺ! And thank you, he’s pretty great!!! ππ
You are so right. You are not your illness.
I love your attitude. PMA is my mantra…..Positive Mental Attitude.
There are times when I feel low, but I refuse to let it get the better of me.
I love to write, and my blog is an outlet for that.
Other than my school days,, I have never really enjoyed running, am not good at dance or drawing (your is awesome, fantastic for home made cards!), but have a natural gift for music which has been my sanctuary. I have none of the illnesses you are dealing with, but have suffered acute depression over the years and last year breast cancer. We found it early and I was extremely lucky.
My perspective has changed and now Life is for living.
Keep your positivity Mackenzie. You are a shining light in the darkness for many.
Thank you so much!! I’m so sorry to hear you’ve had your own illness battles, but I love your mindset. You’re exactly right in those types of situations your perspective instantly changes! Thank you!!! Keep your positive attitude going! Best wishes!!
Thanks Mackenzie. π
You are a multi talented woman..Good to see such bonding with the family
Thank you so much!! Unfortunately it’s becoming rare but we are all really close!
What is becoming rare
My mom is my best friend, we do just about everything togetherπ
Oh I can understand even I have such bonding with my father
And here’s your lovely Guest Post on thankfulness and being positive, Mackenzie…. https://mydailyjournalonline.com/theres-lot-thankful-world/ …. thanks for giving me the honor to host you ….:)…. and I do appreciate the good work you are doing in this blog of yours…..:)
Thank you so much for allowing me to be a guest!!! π
You are welcome
I feel honored to be on your blog! π
Thank you and I hope you will write more in future π
I Will! I look forward to reading more from you! π
Sure π
I would love to partner with you for some insight soon as Iβm at a crossroads when it comes to my chronic illness and hear your thoughts. π thank you
I’m not doctor but if you need to talk to someone who understands, I’m here for you!! π
I know and Iβm no doctor either which is good as I have little believe I doctors these days. Just wondered if you had similar thoughts and experiences. Thank you π
I would love to share them with you!!
Wow, so many comments. I got a sore wrist from all the scrolling! Anyway, I just wanted to say … I really like your drawing! It’s very unique π
I have a lot of really supportive commenters! And thank you so much!! π
Oh you are welcome! I think it’s because your blog is a lovely place to be π
Aw thank you so much!!!π
Have a great evening! Hope thatβs a little smile I see on your face, wherever you are π
Yes it Is! I hope you have a great evening as well! π
Entirely, how could I not meeting and reading the wonderful literary folk in the blogosphere π
Nice to know you!
Thank you so much!!
Wow. You are so incredibly talented! Thank you for sharing your journey with us and giving hope to those that think their illness may hinder them from reaching their dreams!
How did you get such a high level of following in just 4 months?!
Wow, thank you so much! I appreciate it! And honestly I got lucky π
I love your blog! I think you are a courageous and compassionate woman! Sharing your story helps others to know they are not alone. You give me hope. I have faced anxiety through out my life and I have learned to not let it control my life. I am glad you have an amazing family. For me you are a vibrant, confident and caring woman. Blessings Roland ππΉπ»
Wow! Thank you so much, Roland! Your comment truly means a lot to me! I’m sorry to hear about your anxiety, but you’re exactly right you can’t let it control or define you. I’m glad you’re pushing through! I have been blessed with a lovely caring family. Best wishes!
You should start a faith journey instead of owing what’s not yours by God’s design.
Shalom!
I’m sorry, but what do you mean by a faith journey?
If you don’t understand, that is okay. I pray for grace more than enough for you in Jesus name, amen.
Thank you, God bless.
Thank you for spreading positivity and optimism my friend βΊοΈβΊοΈ Beautiful narrative and adorable pictures.
Cheers, Charu
Thank you so much!! I appreciate itπ
So very true, and thank you bunches for liking my blog, Blog Therapy.
Thank you so much! And no problem!
You are definitely more than your illness. A human who wants to live life the best they can.
Thank you I appreciate that, Tony! I don’t let my illness define me
Truely beautiful. Thank for sharing this, you are helping a lot of people including myself. I have chronic health conditions and reading this makes me feel like I’m not alone. Writing is such a gift and a therapeutic way to help yourself and others. Whatever you do, don’t stop blogging, you make a difference.
Wow, thank you so much, that means a lot to me! I’m so glad, that’s my goal is to help others going through it as well. Thank you for reading, best wishes to you!
There is art, music and love in your life! β€οΈ
What a beautiful life you have. Hope you keep shining and spreading love, as you do!
Thank you so much, I do live a full life. I willβ€
I am deeply impressed by you. I admire people like you who have not an easy life but yet make so much more out of it than others who do not have any major problems. Your illlustration with the lighthouse and anchor is excellent!
Wow thank you so much! That means so much to Me! When I was became ill, I’ve learned life is short and I need to be Thankful for the things I do have and not take life for granted. Thank you so much! Best wishes!
You’re so inspiring and fill with positivity. God bless you.
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me! God bless!
You’re utmost welcome. π
Love your writing! So inspiring. Powerful. Thank you!
Thank you so much! I appreciate it!
My best friend has a chronic pain disease and I have a rare blood disorder- both of us in our 30s. Multitude of MD appts and modifying life styles are very familiar to us. I appreciate you putting your story out there. Best of luck ! I’ll be ” following ” your journey:)
I’m so sorry to hear about your trials! But you aren’t alone! Thank you so much and I appreciate you following along with my journey!! π
You are doing great jobs. Keep it up. My friend
Thank you so much! That means a lot!!!
Wow, youβve got so many fun fulling hobbies. Youβre so talented, I mean to be able to be a runner, dancer, drawer and who knows what else… you deserve a metal. 3 marathons, thats really cool
Thank you so much!! I like to try new things! Thank you!π
This is beautiful!! God bless you!!
Thank you so much!!! Best wishes!