When you have multiple chronic illnesses, a new diagnosis often brings new waves of frustration, fear, and grief. That’s what Morgan experienced when she was diagnosed with two new diseases. Through overwhelming struggles, Morgan was eventually able to achieve one of her greatest dreams. Now, she wants to remind others that it gets better. In this update, Morgan shares the latest developments in her life and health journey.
Morgan's Story: An Update
Hi, 
As some of you may already know, my name is Morgan. I’m 22 now, and since the last time I shared my story, A LOT has changed.
In January 2022, I was diagnosed with 2 more chronic illnesses in addition to my Crohn’s Disease. I was diagnosed with Gastroparesis and Colonic Dysmotility.
These 2 new diagnoses shook my world. I knew something was wrong for quite some time, but it was extremely difficult to get any doctors to truly listen to me, as a young female.
Soon after receiving my diagnosis of Gastroparesis, I had a surgical feeding tube placed.
There were complications with it, one after the other. But eventually, my condition stabilized to the point where I don’t have to use my tube that often, unless hydrating because of difficulty due to nausea.
After I started feeling better, I was able to start applying for jobs again! And now, I work at Walt Disney World!
If I could give some advice, this is what I’d like to share:
1) It gets better, I promise. Tomorrow needs you here, so do whatever it takes to get you to tomorrow.
2) Having someone around to support you through the tough moments is SUCH a game changer. For me, this was my friend Ally, when my feeding tube was placed. She held my hand, advocated for me when I couldn’t and reminded me I wasn’t alone. If it wasn’t for her, I’m not sure how I would’ve gotten through that night.
3) Being chronically ill doesn’t get to hold you back. You fight for answers, you adapt, you grow, you fight, and you keep going. I never imagined I’d be here working at my dream job for the past 2 months, but here I am.. and I’m so happy! Please, don’t let your diagnoses stop you. Our lives may look a little different than others’ lives, but we can still reach our goals with some accommodations, patience, and time. If there’s a will, there’s a way. I believe in you.
4) Use your voice. If you can’t speak for yourself, find someone in your life to help advocate for you.
If you feel like something is wrong, speak up. And if no one’s listening, SHOUT until someone does. YOU know YOU best.
No one knows you better than you. You deserve answers, you don’t deserve to suffer.
If you’d like to know more about my story, follow my Instagram: @mightymorganl
The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Global Autoimmune Institute. The experiences and health outcomes described in this article are unique to the author and do not serve as medical advice.
Interested in sharing your story of autoimmune disease or chronic illness? Head over to How to Tell Your Chronic Illness Story for prompts and tips!
