Somebody prayed for me

I am often asked, how do you stay so positive living with a chronic illness and an ostomy or how do I continue to persevere despite my illness. For example, just recently ELLE Magazine asked me that same question.

My answer can be summarized as simply as this, somebody prayed for me.

When I was first diagnosed with Crohn’s disease I had no idea of what was to come. I thought if I took my medicine everything would be okay, I had no idea of the challenges that lay ahead.

My grandma may have understood what my diagnosis meant because very soon after my diagnosis she sat me down (on her lap) and we talked. But most importantly we prayed. During our conversation, my grandmother told me to always remember that your good days will outweigh your bad days. I had no idea what that meant at the time. But now, and throughout my life I have come to understand. During difficult moments especially, I hold onto my grandmother’s words and I am reminded that whatever I’m struggling with is only temporary.

I am reminded of every single time I would visit Americus and my grandmother’s church, my grandma would bring me back to meet with or pray with Rev. Wilson (her pastor). My grandma would grab my hand and bring me to Rev. Wilson and simply say, “Here she is”.

Rev. Wilson didn’t hesitate or ask any questions, he knew exactly who I was and knew about my diagnosis and would either begin praying with us or say something like “To God be the Glory!”.

Because you see, my grandmother prayed for me. Even in my absence, my grandmother prayed for me.

Grandma, thank you for being the best grandmother I could have only dreamed of. Thank you for giving me the best mommy I could have only dreamed of. Thank you for giving me an endless supply of forever family. Thank you for a praying family. Thank you for being there. Thank you for your words of wisdom, that I carry with me daily. Thank you for your strength which lives within me. And above all else, thank you for praying with me and for me. Thank you for interceding when I didn’t know what to pray for or when I felt like giving up.

Grandma, I am here because of you. Because of your words. Because of your faith. Because of your prayers.

I am here because my Grandmother prayed for me.

Grandma, I will miss you beyond words. But your prayers and your words have guided me through life and will continue to do so.

This weekend was tough as we said goodbye, but I know I will see you again and that will be the best day ever.