Interview with a Warrior: Meet Julia

At Chronic Warrior Coaching, we believe every chronic warrior has a powerful story worth sharing. Meet Julia, a chronic warrior from Westchester, New York, whose journey is a reminder that strength is not always visible from the outside and that everyone’s experience with chronic illness is unique.

Where are you from?

I am from Westchester, New York.

What diagnosis or diagnoses do you live with?

I live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Disorder, Vascular Compression Syndrome, and a chronic CSF spinal leak.

What is one thing you wish people understood about your condition?

I wish people understood the invisible nature of my conditions. From the outside, it may look like nothing is wrong with me. It can be challenging getting peers and others to understand that my tissues are fragile, and even though I may look like I can do something, my conditions still impact my daily life.

What has your illness taught you about yourself?

Growing up, I was shy and depended on others a lot. My illness has taught me how capable I am and that I can overcome obstacles.

What advice would you give someone newly diagnosed?

Take it one day at a time. Society puts a lot of pressure on us to have everything figured out and label every part of our journey. It is important to listen to your body and give yourself patience.

When I was first diagnosed, I felt pressure to constantly seek answers and go to the doctor all the time. Over time, I learned the importance of trusting myself and listening to what my body needed.

What brings you joy outside of your health journey?

Animals bring me joy, especially dogs. They provide companionship and happiness in my everyday life.

I also recently started selling products online, which has created a sense of community for me. I enjoy shopping for myself, finding items to resell, and supporting small businesses.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

I love shopping from small businesses.

One word to describe yourself?

Determined.

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy cooking and baking.

Thank you, Julia, for sharing your story with the Chronic Warrior Coaching community. 💜💜

xoxo BC