Living with an invisible disability or illness can be isolating, frustrating, and anxiety-ridden. But you don't have to do it alone. Here, you'll find encouragement, hope, and Christ-centered resources from three chronic illness warriors who understand that your everyday struggles are anything but "normal."
We share our stories of loss and why we can still smile, despite the pain. Take heart - your invisible illness can bring visible hope. Get your FREE Inspiration Bundle below (printer-friendly and device-friendly pdf).
The Invisible Behind Our Smiles...
Diagnosed with an incurable genetic condition (Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) at the age of 33, Erica writes to encourage women to trust God’s goodness as they face life’s unplanned detours and unwanted trials. Her fragile body and uncertain future have led her to place firm hope in God’s character, not in her circumstances. She treasures every “normal” day as a gift. Erica lives in NC with her ever-detailed husband and 9-year-old miracle son.
MaryBeth is a writer who encourages people to hold onto hope + seek God’s provision and grace in their weakness as they navigate the unexpected in life. As a rare disease warrior living with a recurring desmoid tumor, MaryBeth has found God’s provision in her weakest moments and the grace she needs to endure. She lives in Indiana with her husband and their dog, Alaska, where they enjoy a simple life that aims to soak up the beauty and goodness surrounding them.
Kellie, a former teacher, race car driver, mountain climber, and marathoner, now lives homebound in unrelenting pain and failing vision from a mass radiation accident. Her new descriptors include hope bearer, encourager, and intercessor. Under the banner of Reframing Rain, she helps others “reframe” everything from mud puddles to catastrophic loss. Still smiling, she gently shares fresh perspectives through prayer, encouragement, and hope in Jesus.
Featured articles
Advice
Kellie offers advice for those with invisible illness - like respecting your speed limit - and to those who wish to love their chronically ill friends well - a card or folded laundry goes a long way.
Words
The most powerful words you can say to someone with an invisible illness is, "I believe you." MaryBeth helps us uncover what words help (and which ones don't) for those with invisible illness.
Gifts
Labels we didn't want brought with them unexpected gifts. Erica shares how each of us have grown in our understanding of the nearness of God and His grace to recognize hope in the pain.
Did you know the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower helps airport staff and businesses across the globe discreetly identify those who may need extra assistance, time, or help due to an invisible illness or disability? Find out more from Hidden Disabilities USA (images courtesy of the organization).
Your Invisible Illness Inspiration Bundle
Do you need a place to direct your thoughts and encourage your heart when you're feeling discouraged? Find Christ-centered hope through Bible verses, quotes, book resources, songs, and inspiration all in one place.
Interested in Podcast Interviews?
Is your podcast audience encouraged by stories of hope through hardship? Discover three incredible journeys of survival after illness or injury and how these invisible disabilities have drawn us to trust God even more. Download our bios here. Contact us using the form below.
For a timely topic, consider:
- Invisible Disabilities Week - Oct. 17-23, 2021
- Rare Disease Month - February
- Rare Disease Day - Feb. 28, 2022
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and pray you find understanding and hope here.
He has chosen not to heal me, but to hold me. The more intense the pain, the closer His embrace. The greatest good suffering can do for me is to increase my capacity for God. Real satisfaction comes not in understanding God’s motives, but in understanding His character.
-Joni Eareckson Tada
