Crohn’s disease: “Resilience is about getting up each day and choosing to keep fighting, even when it feels impossible.”

Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself? We’d love to hear about your background, your passions, and what brings you joy.

Absolutely! My name is Myisha, and I’m a patient advocate, BSN, RN, BS, content creator, and mom of four. I’ve been living with Crohn’s disease and multiple chronic illnesses for 16 years. I almost died twice: once when I was born, and again when giving birth to my oldest son. My doctors told me of if I ever got pregnant again it would kill me, though I had another son, who’s now 13. My journey has shaped my passion for healthcare advocacy, particularly in ensuring that patients have access to the treatments they need. I’ve been featured in Forbes, CNN, and MSNBC for my advocacy work. I’m also a published author and researcher, and run Game of Crohn’s N Chronic Illness, where I share my experiences and empower others navigating chronic conditions. My family, storytelling, and connecting with others bring me the most joy.

Photo courtesy of Myisha M.

You’ve faced multiple health challenges, including Crohn’s disease and cancer. Can you take us back to the beginning of your chronic illness journey? What were the first symptoms you experienced, and how did you navigate the road to diagnosis?

My journey started young—I was actually given six months to live when I was born. Later in life, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which led to years of hospitalizations, surgeries, and treatments. The first symptoms I experienced were extreme abdominal pain, fatigue, and severe weight loss, but it took time to get a definitive diagnosis. Really, until I officially received a diagnosis of Crohn’s before 2021, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis with proctitis and diverticulitis. In 2021, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, which was another life-altering experience. I had surgery to remove the stage 0 cancer and have been cancer-free for three years now. Through all of it, I’ve learned to be my own biggest advocate, fighting for the right treatments, and sharing my story to help others navigate similar battles.

Balancing multiple chronic conditions alongside personal and professional responsibilities can be overwhelming. How do you manage everything in your daily life while prioritizing your well-being?

It’s definitely a balancing act! Managing chronic illness while being a mom, wife, and a professional requires a lot of planning and flexibility. I prioritize self-care by listening to my body, taking necessary rest, and making sure my treatment schedule stays consistent. I also rely on a strong support system—my family, advocacy community, and healthcare team. Time management and setting boundaries are key, and I remind myself that it’s okay to slow down when I need to.

What does your current treatment and management routine look like? Are there specific medications, therapies, or lifestyle changes that have helped you manage your conditions?

I’m currently rinvoq and azathaprine, both of which are immunosuppressants. Tracking my nutrition, stress management, and movement are also crucial parts of my care plan. I try to eat an anti-inflammatory diet, practice mindfulness, and stay as active as my body allows. Therapy has also been a huge part of my journey, helping me cope with PTSD and anxiety. Finding the right combination of treatments has been a long process, but advocating for myself has made all the difference.

How has your medical background influenced the way you approach your own health journey? Has it helped you advocate for yourself in medical settings? What’s one thing you wish more healthcare professionals understood about living with chronic illness?

Being a registered nurse has definitely given me insight into the healthcare system and how to advocate for myself effectively. I understand medical jargon, treatment options, and how to push for the right care. However, I’ve also seen firsthand the gaps in the system—how patients, especially those with invisible illnesses, can be dismissed or denied care. I wish more healthcare professionals understood that chronic illness is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Just because someone “looks fine” doesn’t mean they aren’t struggling.

What has been the most challenging part of your journey, and how did you overcome it? Has there been a moment that particularly tested you? How did you push through?

One of the hardest moments was almost dying in 2009 while giving birth to my son, and then again in 2021, when I was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer. I’m so grateful to be cancer-free. There were times when I questioned if I could keep fighting, but my children, my husband, and my passion for advocacy gave me the strength to keep going. I’ve learned that resilience isn’t about being strong all the time, it’s about getting up each day and choosing to keep fighting, even when it feels impossible.

You’re a proud wife and mom of four! How has your health journey impacted your relationships with your family? Has their support played a role in your resilience? What advice would you give to loved ones supporting someone with chronic illness?

My family is my rock. My husband and kids have seen me at my worst and have supported me unconditionally. Chronic illness can be isolating, but their love reminds me that I’m never alone. My biggest advice for loved ones supporting someone with chronic illness is to listen and validate their experience. It’s not about “fixing” them—it’s about being present, understanding their struggles, and offering patience and support without judgment.

Finally, what message would you like to share with others navigating a similar journey? Is there a piece of advice you wish you had received earlier, or a mantra, habit, or source of inspiration that keeps you going?

You are stronger than you think. Chronic illness can take so much from you, but it can also teach you resilience, compassion, and purpose. The advice I wish I had received earlier is that you don’t have to prove your pain to anyone, your experience is valid. My mantra is: “I am more than my illness.” Keep advocating, keep fighting, and never forget that your voice matters.

A big thank you to Myisha for this interview!

Don’t forget to check out her Instagram and Threads accounts. You can also join her Facebook group.

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Take care of yourself!