Chronic Illness in Young Adults - The Rest of the Story

 Everyone has a story and it's my privilege to hear some of those stories through the grid of redemption. Stephanie, Stephen, and Tim shared their story of living with chronic illness as young adults  in our Learning to See When the Lights Go Out audio library resource:  Chronic Illness: Stories from Young Adults.

Stephanie at the Piano

Stephen at the Soundboard

Tim and Stephanie

Stephanie recently shared "the rest of her story" with her friends on Facebook. I asked her permission to share her story here so that those who struggle with chronic illness, especially young people, will know there is help and hope for living each day with purpose and joy.
Stephanie - The Rest of the Story!
If you had asked me when I was 18 years old if I would ever be submitting my final college portfolio I would have responded with a resounding "not a chance!" I was 18 years old and weighed 75 pounds. On my fourth day at college I blacked out on The Green at theUniversity of Delaware. My doctor told me I could have a college experience or I could have my life. But at 75 pounds and still losing,I would not be able to have both.

Chronic Illness - Stories from Young Adults

During my year and a half of medical leave after that, there were a lot of people who told me I wouldn't ever go back-- including myself. I remember the first day I stumbled upon online classes, and realized that I could still figure out a way to get a college degree while working on getting my strength back. And now, JUST NOW, I have submitted my final portfolio for my degree-- I AM FINISHED WITH SCHOOL!!! 

smile emoticon

It wasn't the way I had planned, and it wasn't the timing I had planned. It wasn't the school I had planned, it wasn't the major I had planned, and it came at a greater cost than I had planned (not talking about money)-- yet I couldn't be more thankful that God sees the whole picture even when I don't, and that I don't need to see the whole picture in order to say "yes" to what HE has planned for me. The obstacles have only made tonight THAT much more meaningful. YOU GUYS.....Guess what?!?! I FINISHED!!!!!!!!! 

Thank you, Stephanie, Stephen, and Tim for refusing to give up or give in but to embrace the pathway on which God has placed you and showing us how to choose life, even when life is hard!

In His grip,
Sharon