Warrior Wednesday Feature: Kaitlyn

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Let’s welcome this weeks warrior, Kaitlyn! 

My name is Kaitlyn, but a lot of the chronic illness community knows my handle @trusting.my.gut on Instagram and Tik Tok. 

I’m originally from Atlanta, GA. I completed my undergraduate degree in December in South Carolina and currently attend nursing school in Tennessee. 

I have several different chronic illnesses. I was first diagnosed with Crohn’s on February 3rd 2020. I was then diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) on January 6th of 2021. Then Psoriasis on July 29th of 2021, and finally Hidradenitis suppurativa on February 17th of this year.

My Crohn’s diagnosis took two years to diagnose thanks to doctors not telling me all the facts. PCOS took nine long years to diagnose. The others were a fairly quick diagnosis process because I had learned to advocate and fight for my health by the time symptoms started.

My life has completely changed since embarking on this chronic illness journey. I have had to learn that I cannot control everything that happens. I’ve had to change my diet, quit sports, and constantly remind myself that I am not physically able to keep up with my old self. 

I face struggles with cross-contamination of gluten. I struggle in the classroom due to illnesses and appointments. I am always considering how I will feel the next day based on what I am doing today, illness, and so much more. 

This journey has taught me that I have a powerful voice and to stick up for myself. It has also taught me who my real friends are and who/what I should be pouring my energy into. 

You are stronger than your circumstances. Your illness is only part of your story, not all of it.

I love going to Cyclebar and hiking. My hobbies include photography and exploring new coffee shops when I have free time. 

I would not be where I am today if it were not for the chronic illness community. I am so thankful for the people I have met through this journey and cannot imagine life without them.

Thank you so much for sharing your chronic illness journey with us Kaitlyn! Be sure to give her a follow in IG @trusting.my.gut