Warrior Wednesday Feature: Renika

Let’s welcome this weeks warrior, Renika!  

Hello! My name is Renika W. and I am from a small town in North Carolina called Halifax. I moved a few years ago and I am currently living in Raleigh North Carolina. 

To share a little bit about me…  I was diagnosed by a gastroenterologist in 2010 with an inflammatory bowel disease called ulcerative colitis. Prior to diagnosis.. I started experiencing chronic diarrhea.. nausea and stomach pains. I went to a medical appointment and learned that my blood was low and I was passing blood microscopically.. I was later prepped for a colonoscopy and this is how the journey began.. 

At that time, I was placed on several Biologics and other steroids, but my symptoms were not improving at all. In 2015, I probably experienced one of the worst flares as being newly diagnosed.. I was hospitalized and I was informed that I did not have ulcerative colitis but I had an inflammatory bowel disease called Crohn’s Disease. What a whirlwind of emotions that I experienced as I had not even got use to having a diagnosis of any sort. The findings were not easily identifiable. The process  and journey for me was not one  that was comforting or supportive.

Fast forwarding to me having a 10 year diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, I’ve had my share of ups and downs. I’ve had my share of crying.. pity parties, self-doubt, insecurities, isolation, anxiety, periodic depressive symptoms…. Those are just a few emotions that stuck out the forefront of my mind as I thought about and reminisced about my past. At this time, I am living and thriving and surviving. The road that I have before me has already been predetermined and I am gracefully using all my tools and embracing it all.. 

My journey with inflammatory bowel disease has taught me that sometimes you are stronger than what you think! I was taught patience.. the importance of being responsive and advocating for yourself.. most importantly… I educated myself on my condition because nobody can never tell you how you feel!!!! 

This journey also showed me that there are people in your life that want to see you win… they want to be in your life despite any of your challenges… you can’t worry about what other people think about you because that is not none of your business!! You got to keep on doing what you need to do for you because you’re the one that is going to gain resilience as you process through the challenges that this chronic disease can often bring.. that’s what I have learned.. 

I enjoy all of the beauties of my life. I love to help others. I love to do make up and I am a big Thrifter. I found my solitude when I am in the midst of being there for someone and to help them find their glimmer of light in their darkest moments!! 

I am Renika W. I am THRIVING, SURVIVING & LIVING my BEST LIFE  while being faced with the obstacles of having a Chronic Illness!!

Thank you so much for sharing your story Renika! Be sure to give her a follow at crohns_and_sexxy on IG!