“My struggles do not define me,” said eighteen-year-old Raimee*.
Those are big words from someone who has faced significant health struggles her entire life.
She went on to say, “I won’t let my struggles stop me; instead, I try to
Wow! What a story of perseverance! Sorry you struggled so long but so happy for you now. And yes, you absolutely have to be your best advocate. I’m a fellow overcomer and #fistsup was a common hashtag through my fight! Continued blessings Kit.
Thank you for reading my story, Cori! Your support means so much to me. #fistsup always! Best wishes to you! ?
“There is strength in vulnerability…” What a powerful statement! Thank you for sharing your story. God bless you!
That statement means a lot to me- I’m glad it struck a cord with you, Holli. Thank you for reading my story! <3 <3
What a powerful testimony from an incredibly strong young woman. I have so many friends who suffer from migraines and headaches from all types of issues. Thank you for sharing your story so that others may be made aware.
Thank you so much for your support, Wanda!! My best to you <3
Such an inspiring story!! So glad to have met you, Melony and our other “Moyamoya Sisters” last year @ our First Moyamoya Georgia Meeting last May. Excited you have a little one on the way, Kit! Congrats!!
Thank you, Jane!! I am so happy we were all able to connect. I would love to see all of you again soon! Hope you are doing well, MM sister!
Kit,
Thank you for sharing the story of your long struggles. Yes, I agree, you are your own best advocate when you cannot get others to get to the root of the problem. You are very brave and I know you will enjoy being a wonderful Mother!
Thank you, Jane!! I am so happy we were all able to connect. I would love to see all of you again soon! Hope you are doing well, MM sister!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story, Sandra! I am so looking forward to becoming a mother soon! <3 All my love!
You are a very strong person and I hope you both enjoy your new baby!
Thank you for your kind words, Jo Ann! We cannot wait to meet our little one! My best to you 🙂
Bless you! So thrilled your second surgery was a success. My heart hurts for all enduring the hardship and struggle of Moyamoya. We are in our first year of knowledge (my 14 year old daughter dx’ed in 1/18). She’s had other major medical issues but this one has left us reeling. Thank you for sharing your story; you are s brave young woman and I wish only the best for you. Healing and Love from Chicago, Illinois. Tanya, mom to Skylar
Tanya- Moyamoya can be quite unpleasant at times, but the support from amazing people like you makes such a huge difference! I’m so sorry that Skylar has been dealing with multiple medical issues– stay strong and vigilant. I am here for you guys and will offer any advice that I can! All my love to you and your family <3
I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of you! Your strength, courage and persistence to get to the bottom of your health issues has been so incredibly inspiring. Reading this article reminds me just how much you’ve been through, for many years. I thank God everyday for the honor of being your mom. I know your candor and willingness to share your story will be so uplifting to many Moyamoya patients. Let your light shine, sweetie!! ??
Melony, well done!! Your mission to bring awareness to this rare disease is simply beautiful .
Oh, mom! Thank you! Your support means the world to me. I learned how to fight for what I believe in from you, and for that I’m forever grateful. Love you <3 <3
I know Kit!!! she is awesome!!
She is very inspirational.
What a struggle you have endured. May God continue to give you healing and a wonderful life to experience his love for you.
Such an empowering story!!! So glad you were able to get to the root of the problem!!! Having health issues myself I am now even more determined to get down to the root of my health issues!!! God bless you and congratulations on your bundle of joy!!!
I had a hemorrhagic stroke in January and indirect and direct revascularization surgery in March of this year. Blood flow back, but I still get tired and weak. I returned to work in May of this year and I plug along. It was good at first and I was energetic, but I seem more tired and my energy level is off. Are you energetic and back to whatever normal is?
It’s a rare and beautiful thing when a young person finds their purpose in life and begins pursuing it with zeal. Such is the case with Chloe*. “I wrote ‘That’s Why I Sing’ in honor of my Poppie,” Chloe shared.
What a WARRIOR!!! Way to go, Chloe!!! You understand so much at such a young age!! God has gifted you immeasurably! I love your music!!! Sparkle on!!
Thank you so much for your words of encouragement Lee!
Your story is inspiring, and I can’t wait to see where your music takes you. Good luck!
Thank you so much Brooke!
Such a beautiful and sweet young lady.
Thank you so much!
I’m so proud of you Chloe! I cannot wait to see how the Lord uses you and the talents he has given you! You are such a blessing and I’m honored to be your aunt!
you have walked with me through my journey and I’m not sure if I could have done it without you!
You make me so proud Chloe ❤️ I learn so much from you each day?? So thankful Jesus picked me to be your mom!!
Thank you for all you do! Love you so much!
Chloe
Your words and your story clearly define that you understand our God will provide. And yes you are young and small but. So is the faith of a mustard seed. Thank you so much for sharing your story with women of all ages. You will inspire many as you continue to live out his word in your daily walk with Christ. It seems you are surrounded by love, lean on those people as they guide you as you grow and mature. May your faith be even stronger than it is now as you continue this journey called life. Many blessings and hugs to you my sweet girl. Thank you for sharing your story.?❤
Jessica Thank you so much much for supporting me. It means so much to me! This is so awesome to be able to be a part of others peoples lives and see how they overcome trials in their life.
I’m so proud of you Chloe for sharing your story? it’s so amazing to watch The Lord work in your life. I’m a very proud Nana❤️
Love you so much!
What an amazing voice!!! Thank you for sharing your talent with the world!
Thank you so much! <3
Beautifully written story about your life struggles and how you overcame them by putting your trust in God. Your songs and your testimony are going to make a difference in the lives of many people. I’m so proud of you. Grandma.
Thank you! Love you
So proud of you Chloe!!!
I am so proud of you and all that you have accomplished and how you show the love of the Lord in your life. I’m glad God allowed our families to meet and become friends.
Aww, That is so sweet! Thank you so much!
So proud of you sweet girl!! ❤️
LOve you Tab!
Chloe you are one of the strongest individuals I have ever met! There is no doubt that your story will inspire and touch the lives of many people as it has touched mine! I’m so proud of you! Love you!
Love you too! so thankful to have you as my uncle!
Chloe, you are such an inspiring young woman. As the aunt to a teenage boy who struggles with a severe case of ulcerative colitis, you exude so much hope. Your voice is such a blessing and I love how you are allowing God to use you. You will never know the number of people you will help by sharing your story. Many blessings to you!
This means so much to me! Thank you so much! I’m so sorry about your nephew!
Such an inspiring story. May God continue to give you good health and a beautiful serving voice.
Thank you so much!
Beautiful story and such a brave young girl! You will bless many people Chloe!
Thank you so much!
I am so proud of you sis your voice touches so many peoples hearts including mine. I can’t wait to see what God has planned for you just keep on putting him first in everything I am so proud of you Chloe and love you more than you will ever know.
Love you so much, bro! I’m so thankful God picked you to be my brother! You inspire me every day!
Chloe,
Your inspiring music and servant attitude is a great legacy to leave. I hope to see where this takes you.
Chloe, thank you for sharing your gift with the world! I’m sure your Poppie loves watching you from above and is thrilled and proud to see you overcoming in such a beautiful way?
Wow! What a beautiful, talented, inspiring young lady. Your future is bright.
Aww, Chloe! This brought tears of joy to my eyes. I’m so thankful you are following your Jesus and He will definitely use you to reach all ages in your walk with Him. Amazing story of an amazing young lady. Love you and your precious family. Aunt Patricia
Thanks for sharing my story, Melony. It’s an honor to be included among this group of women who refuse to give up.
Susan, I thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration to me and I appreciate that your love for God and your walk with him is unwavering. God bless you!
Thanks, Kay. I appreciate you taking the time to write and comment. I love how God uses our stories to encourage each other. Blessings!!
Thank you for an inspiring story! It feeds the soul to see people flourishing despite the challenges that life throws at them.
Melony does a great job finding and sharing the hope that keeps us going!
Susan you are a warrior in this disease but more than that for God . I thank-you for sharing your journey. God allows our journey for his purpose & for me it was to draw me near to Him closer than ever before! I thank God for each day so it allows me to shine for Him & pave a path for other’s whom are suffering in there own journey’s that living with a chronic illness isn’t a death sentence it’s a wake call to not take one minute of each day for granted to spend it on whom we love & what we love doing & to always shine a light on Hope!
I hate that missed seeing this months ago. You said it well. Chronic disease allows us to dig deep into what matters most. Definitely a wake up call… or perhaps a call to lean ever more on the arms that hold us fast. Some days I wonder if we weren’t created to simply be an army of prayer warriors. Shine on, girl!
Thanks so much Susan for sharing your life story with us Overcomers, welcome and I look forward to meeting you one day !!! It is very encouraging to know how God’s love and care for you and your family has made you stronger and that these experiences with Him only serve to whet your appetite for more of His sweetness that He promises us in Ps 34:8. Many more blessings to you and yours.
Thanks, Amelia! Appreciate your kind words. Many blessings to you and yours too.
Wow! This is an awesome story that is sure to inspire and bless many people…
Thanks, Jeff. Blessings to you!
What a journey, wow… thank you for sharing. I know this will inspire others and I pray it reaches those individuals that may have needed this,
God bless,
Angie Thomsen
Thanks, Angie. I hope it reaches all those who need to hear it too. I’ve been encouraged by other’s stories so it’s the way of grace to share my own. Blessings to you!
Susan, thank you for sharing your story. I am so inspired by how with every trial you continue to press on and fight! It is such a blessing to see how thankful you are for His provision and what a trust you have in Him!
Cindie, My first husband used to say something like, “Peter gets the real credit for stepping out of sailing ship. Our ship is sinking. If we don’t step out in faith, we’ll drown.” So, it’s stand in faith or give in. And Jesus has done too much for me to give in. Blessings to you!
Inspiring story. Glad I read it.
Thanks, Glenda! Blessings to you!
Susan, you are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your story! Continue to be a prisoner of hope! God is truly able to heal you and your son! Continue to “don’t shrink back!”
Peace & blessings,
Sherry
“Understanding my identity in Christ is the ultimate freedom. It’s a truth to hold onto and a feeling I can re-experience every time I remember who Jesus is and who I am in Him. I was always waiting for that
Josie,
Wow, I just read your story, first let me thank you for sharing it. It’s so relatable to my own, I’m almost speechless after reading it,
I go day to day with contstant stiffness, pain, and so many other symptoms and side effects from my long list of diseases, and I’m so amazed how you found a way to push through yours and focus on God. You have inspired me. I wish you the very best and wanted to thank you for sharing your journey .
Hi, Angie! Thanks so much for your kind words. I’m so sorry you know that kind of pain. Honestly, the only way I’ve been able to push through and focus on God is by HIS grace! And I certainly have had my share of rough days. I am so thankful that God’s mercies are new every morning! I pray that God will lighten your load as you look to Him. May He bless you with peace and great joy even in the midst of the suffering. Hugs! ~Josie
Thank you for sharing your incredible story, Josie. I have a nephew who is experiencing some of what you have experienced. He has just seen a holistic practitioner and I am hoping he will have good results. God bless you!
Hi, Kay! Thank you for your commment. I am so glad your nephew has found a holistic practitioner. I feel like the more options we have the better! I pray that he is able to find relief and get the help he needs to see improved health. God bless you both! ~Josie
You have been on a long journey with God at your side. As you said, when we limit God, we limit the strength and freedom that He gives. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13.
Hi, Sandra! Thanks for commenting. I love Philippians 4:13, what an encouragement. God bless! ~Josie
Josie, What a story of overcoming all the trials associated with pain! You are an inspiration!
Thank you, Maureen! ~Josie
Your trials = your testimony. May God shine through you as you share your story. And bless many.
Evelyn, thank you so much for your encouragement! ~Josie
Thank you for sharing your powerful story, Josie. I’m glad you can use your journey to help others along the way. May God continue to bless you and allow you to be used by Him in this incredible way.
Thank you for your comment, Julie! It’s a great feeling seeing God bring good out of the pain. He is so faithful! ~Josie
I’m so thankful for people who are gifted to help those who are afflicted deal with their chronic illnesses, and thankful He gives us daily grace for whatever struggles we face in life!
Amen! His grace is sufficient. Thank you for your comment, Michelle! ~Josie
Love this and the series! Thank you reminding us that God can work in any situation!
Thanks, Erin! Oh that we would have eyes to see how and where He is working! ~Josie
What an amazing and inspiring journey of faith! Thank you for so openly and candidly sharing your story, Josie.. Praying for you!
Hi, Katherine! Thanks so much for your comment and especially your prayers! Many blessings! ~Josie
What an inspiring story. Thanks for sharing.
Always encouraging stories! Thanks Melony and Lisa!
Thank you for taking the time to read my story Heather!
Lisa, This is an incredible story of overcoming life’s trails and tribulations. So glad you were able to stand on the promise of Jeremiah 29:11!
Maureen,
Thank you for reading my story and your kind comments. I’m thankful to be alive and give God all the glory!
Lisa
Lisa is definitely an overcomer! She is an amazing woman who has held steadfast to her faith, family and friends during difficult periods. She has endured each circumstance with constant conviction of the Lord’s hand, provision and presence in each situation…and all with that beautiful smile! She treasures Speed’s devotion to her and sacrifice for her well being and benefit. Difficult seasons have produced diligent disciples and examples to many! Lisa – big hug to you my friend! xo
I hope you know how much you and our friendship means to me. You caring about me and laughing at my silliness is just another example of God’s blessings on my life. It doesn’t matter where we leave off or how many months pass without us seeing each other, we pick up where we left off and that to me is a great, true friend. I hope to see you soon! Love you. Xoxo
Wow, an incredibly resilient lady and whole family. Lisa, you are an amazing individual. Melony, thank you for sharing yet another inspiring message.
Cindi, thank you for reading my story and for your kind words! Lisa
Lisa, I am so happy for your recovery. May God continue to give you everything you need to stay healthy.
Cara – I relate to your story. I too have chronic pain. Like you, I made a choice to lean on God’s grace to complete His purpose for my life. I’m so glad that you have set boundaries and margin for your day. You are an overcomer – thanks for sharing your story!
Cara,
Philippians 4:6-7 – Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Wow, what strength, and trust, and your overall optimistic view on life speaks volumes about you.
During our darkest days, we tend to give up or throw in the towel, and turn away from our faith.
I’m so touched by your ability to push through and still see God as your savior. You are the true definition of an OVERCOMER. I’m so glad you shared your story, and I wish you continued strength. I pray your pain or what ever God’s plan is for you continues to give you the courage to make the journey.
God Bless,
Angie Thomsen
Overcomer
I hope that you can get relief from such intense pain. It is amazing that you have chosen to not let this completely limit your life. Hopefully more research in this area will bring an answer. God bless you. Glenda
This is an amazing story of enduring faith. I cannot imagine living with severe head pain for any length of time, let alone eight years.
Many of us face a health struggle at some point in our lives. Uncomfortable and inconvenient as it may be, it generally has a short duration. One hundred thirty-three million Americans wish for a health struggle with a short duration.
Erin is a beautiful young woman, inside and out. I’m thrilled to see how God uses her to reach out to others who are struggling with chronic illness. She’s right, we can’t begin to understand the moment-to-moment struggle, but this post certainly helped me see it in a new light. Thank you, Erin, for your honesty, and thank you, Melony, for sharing Erin’s story!
I am very sure that this story will encourage someone today! sometimes we think we have it hard, or we have major obstacles, then we have a clarifying moment, understanding what others have going on
Wow… some big overcoming for Erin. Having several auto immune diseases myself.
It’s hard enough trying learn and research and going from doctor to doctor in hope for a answer
Or a miracle. Then add on a very difficult child trama. It’s amazing to me that Erin was about to find her way back to her faith and overcoming some of the hardest challenges.
Thanks for sharing your story.
wishing you good health and hope you our filled with peace and comfort.
bless you,
Angie
wow-the spoon analogy was great. I am no where close to where Erin is in her health struggles. But the spoon thing really hit me. I have neurological issues that are not evident to most people. People just assume that I am clumsy and gawky, uncoordinated. They shake their heads and say “That’s just Shannon”. Which is true. But I really do not like being known for being the clumsy one. Its very frustrating for me. I really do want my body to cooperate. I have to work twice as hard, pay twice as much attention. Its tiring sometimes. And people-most people anyway-don’t get it. I have SO OFTEN wanted to put two different size shoes on my husband and have him go trail run 5k…and then wonder why I fall down. (not that he does not respect what I am trying to do…more to have someone ‘normal’ understand.) I am SO GLAD to hear the Erin has found some resolution and healing and is off most of her medications. She is beautiful and to look at her you would not think there was a thing wrong w her. That is probably frustrating to her as well. I have always maintained that our health is one of the biggest things we take for granted.
Beautiful story Melony!!
Raimee, you are a remarkable lady and friend! I’ve always admired you, and I have loved our friendship from the beginning! ❤️
Thank you so much, Natalie! I love you <3
My prayers of deep spiritual strength are with you and your mom. I would love to meet you one day. Your mom and I have become friends through NFLN and is such a supportive force in my life and yours! Love that you are an overcomer and love Corinthians 12:9-10. ??????
Thank you so much for the response! She really is such a supportive friend and mother. Hopefully we can meet at an NFLN meet-up one day!
Raimee, I am sorry for your struggles. What a wonderful overcoming spirit you have! Blessings to you!
Thank you! It hasn’t been easy, but all of the kind words are very encouraging!
I can firsthandedly say that Raimee Sanders is a force to be wreckoned with and does not let any of her struggles define her and i have always admired that about her! she ensures that she keeps a smile on her face every day and always speaks with a warm heart. While I’m sad we don’t really talk any more, I wish you nothing but the best and lots of love!! xx
I really appreciate these kind words, Olivia. You are such a light in the world and I’m thankful for the friendship we shared.
This is my granddaughter ❤️ No matter the personal struggles, she has always put others before herself and has been brave for her family. She is blessed beyond measure with a pure heart and such a sweet spirit. For her cousins: Jasmine, Isabella and Anya she is their hero….mine too! ?????
I am blessed beyond measures with such a loving and supportive family! I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you guys! You’re the best Grandmother around… xoxo
Raimee thank you for sharing your inspiring testimony. Your strength is remarkable. You are such a blessing!
Thank you for sharing your story, Raimee. You’re stronger than I could ever be and You’re such an inspirational and strong young lady! Keep smiling and continue to lean on Jesus. Love you!
Thank you so much, Chelsea! I love and miss you guys!
Raime, you are such an incredible, strong,, beautiful woman! I feel blessed to have read your whole story here. You have had so much strength through so much adversity. I’m glad you have learned on your faith… Sometimes it’s all we can do. Hang on to that and God will get you through. ❤️
Somewhere along the way this little girl had a spiritual gift poured in to her. As we have gotten older and more mature her mother and I have gained insite in to how the world works. I remember once when she was very young her mother and I were having a spiritual conversation and Raimee added something. We just looked at each other. It was something no 8 or 9 year old should have knowledge of or awareness of. But she demonstrated a knowledge of the topic showing a total grasp of the topic. We later said she is an old soul. “She been her before!” Her trials have proven to purify her soul for whatever her higher purpose is. I absolutely love being part of her life and can’t wait for the adult version of her to shine.
Raimee is a fierce, funny, smart, and a beautiful warrior who’s smile can light up a room. I am thankful that I know this incredible woman and beyond thankful god choose her mother to share this life with her. ❤️
It has taken me a minute to decide what I wanted to say. To read these words and to have direct quotes from Raimee shook me when I realized how she sees her future. This world has no idea how much I love this girl and what I have done for her to try and give her a better outlook. At times, I feel like such a failure with her and then she says something or does something that reminds me who she is. She is a cherished daughter of God and she has big things to do for Him in this life. At 12, she brought a group of high school senior football players to their knees with her story and many of them committed their lives right then to the Kingdom of God. I stand in awe of her and the power God has given her to command a room. I can’t wait to see what she does with the next chapter He is writing for her. I love you Raimee. More than every grain of sand and every star in the sky and I could not thank God more for giving me the privilege of raising you. ❤️
You sure know how to make a girl cry. Thank you for everything momma. Words can’t describe the amount of love I have for you. You held my hand, and through everything, you never let me lose sight of God and His plan. YOU are a blessing.
Wow, what a story. This brought tears to my eyes. But it made my heart pound in my chest as I read your encouraging words. Your faith is so strong. If only people had your courage, Your strength, your faith in their minor circumstances as you do in your major circumstances. You are a light, an example to others. Thank you for sharing this touching story and being an example of God’s work and light in the flesh. May you find courage each day to stay strong. So many love you and are praying for to you!
Raimee what an inspiration you are to so many who find themselves in the face of adversity be it big or small. My face started out wet with sadness for the little girl in the hip surgery photo but the tears quickly become tears of joy at the picture of you and your mama because of the support and love that surrounds you to tears of pure elation, pride, and hope in the message of strength that you share. Strength found in Christ. When you question why me… please remember that through your struggle and pain comes a much needed message of hope, survival, endurance, and a love and need for our Heavenly Father for SO MANY. You are beautiful inside and out. I am blessed to know you and your incredible story.