Community

“As a trauma victim, I feel as though I am finally coming out of this sleeping pod and stepping into the life I always wanted and sort of had within myself prior to the multiple traumatic events that I unfortunately experienced. Through intensive therapy and prayer I was able to overcome judgments from so called “friends”, self-inflicted mental abuse, self medicating, and so much more. Journaling allowed me to slowly build a supportive relationship within myself. Always having an optimistic outlook on life paired with gratitude for the time God allows me to live reinforces this. Accepting that being human is ok and to give myself time to rest and think have been a key part of my growth. The more I’ve become aware of the conditions that came about as a result of the trauma, the stronger I’ve become. By embracing rather than despising myself, I’ve shed the many layers of the onion I once believed myself to be and now feel as though I am finally beginning to enjoy a gliding towards a sunrise. I wish all happy gliding and to trust yourselves because it is a beautiful journey.”

“My name is Shivani Shah. In 2014, I was diagnosed with an Autoimmune Disease named Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), I was just 19 years old. It is a chronic disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of the body. It mostly affects skin, joints and internal organs. I was doing my undergrad and was advised by the doctors to drop out as my body couldn’t handle the stress of workload. Not only did I complete my undergrad in 2016 but also completed my graduation in 2018. During these tough times, I had faith in God, persistence towards my education and resilience towards my disease. I have realized that there are so many things that we as human beings take for granted. Like a healthy body is a gift given by God, and we need to take constant care for it. I have learned that we understand the value of little things, when we have to fight for it every day. For instance, having a healthy body that can accomplish little tasks like showing, eating, walking etc. I have been battling this disease for 8 years now, and it doesn’t have a cure yet. I am so grateful for each new day; it feels like a chance to grow into a better version of myself. Remember, if you are suffering from a tough time, it is because you are supposed to learn, grow and inspire other people from your journey. God believed that you can overcome any obstacles, now it’s time for you to believe in yourself. ”