I am a survivor of multiple sclerosis, lupus, heart attack, fibromyalgia, aneurysms, and more. I am turning my pain into purpose. I now advocate for chronic illness warriors and empower the voiceless to rise and thrive.
I advocate for the National MS Society, the American Heart Association: You’re the Cure, and the Lupus Foundation of America. As a survivor of many chronic illnesses, I speak about the mental, emotional and spiritual battles that come with chronic illnesses. I also discovered the power of sharing my story.
The more honest I became about my struggles, the more people opened up about theirs. People would tell me they felt encouraged because they saw someone continuing to live with hope despite hardship. That reminded me that our pain can become purpose when we allow it to help someone else.
I have received many awards and plaques. I was honored to receive awards, certificates, and recognition for my advocacy work. My councilman presented me with a proclamation recognizing my efforts to bring awareness to lupus and multiple sclerosis. My mayor also gave me a commendation for my dedication to educating and uplifting the community.
Those moments were emotional for me because I remembered the days when I felt broken, hopeless, and invisible. Now, my story was helping bring light to others.
One of the proudest moments of my journey was seeing our city hall illuminated in support of Lupus Awareness Month and Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Watching the Ben Franklin Bridge light up for these causes filled my heart with emotion. It was more than just lights on a building or bridge — it was a symbol that people living with these illnesses mattered, that our voices were finally being seen and acknowledged.
If there is one message I hope people take from my story, it is this: Your struggles do not make you weak. Sometimes the hardest battles produce the strongest people. Even in the darkest moments, there is purpose, hope, and light waiting ahead.
I have been called a warrior—a living testament to resilience. As a survivor of multiple sclerosis, lupus, a heart attack, an aneurysm, and more, I have faced unimaginable challenges.
But through it all, I have stood firm in my faith, determined not just to survive, but to thrive. With perseverance, endurance, and an unwavering trust in God, I have transformed my pain into purpose.
I am a survivor. I am here to turn my pain into purpose. I empower those struggling with chronic illness and encourage faith, advocacy, and resilience.
Written by Letitia Hill
