It has occurred to me that I have not officially introduced myself to y’all. So what better way to start off the week than with an intro?

My name is Rebekah. I am a former professional vocalist and theatrical performer. I am a travel expert, travel designer and marketing manager, mother of three amazing sons and wife to the most supportive husband in the world.

My life was going along pretty well until seven years ago. We were in an accident. Our car flipped four times down an eighty foot ravene, throwing both my youngest son (15 at the time) and I out the side windows. This accident was what triggered the my symptoms into overdrive.

Don’t get me wrong. Before the accident, I had issues but could somewhat manage. I was also brushed off by one doctor after another.

After the accident, I fought even harder to get answers as I suffered more and more each year. Then my new doctor sent me to the man who finally validated everything. I wasn’t crazy! I wasn’t a hypochondriac!

Two years ago, I was diagnosed with Dysautonomia, Postural Tachycardia Syndrome, Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Bertolotti’s Syndrome and Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome. Shortly after, we found out I also have Chiari Malformation, Degenerative Disc Disease, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Seizures, Rheumatoid Arthritis and most recently, Kidney Disease. There has been tons of doctors, specialists, surgeries and tests. But it wasn’t until we moved to Dallas and met a leading Dysautonomia specialist that we were finally given an answer.

The last year, in particular, has been rough. One specialist after another and six surgeries. After back surgery in 2019, I have been in physical therapy since November. There were a few setbacks at first and I honestly started to accept the fact that I may not walk again. It felt as if I would never be strong enough. However, I can proudly say that now after 8 months, I am finally strong enough to get on the stationary bike. I may be slow but I am moving forward.

I am gluten free, dairy free and sugar free because I have to. I am learning to better manage my pain and my inflammation through an anti inflammatory diet, kinesiology tape, essential oils, CBD and physical therapy.

I am an autoimmune warrior, chronic illness warrior, chronic pain warrior, patient leader and advocate who has come to terms with the fact that there is no cure for me and my life will never go back to the way it used to be. However, I have learned to love the new me and love my spoonie friends even more.

What’s your story?