Gastroparesis is a stomach disease in which the stomach fails to function. Food cannot be digested as easily, causing painful, constant symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, early satiety, dehydration, weight loss, and even death.

I was struck with gastroparesis last summer and spent a week in the hospital. I had to leave my job and put off school. It has been nearly 5 months and I have come a long way in the recovery process. I still have symptoms everyday and must watch what I eat. Everyday has been a frustrating battle, yet it has taught me gratitude in being alive and being able to eat whatever I can.

At first I felt hopeless because everywhere I looked it said there was no cure to gastroparesis. However, I found one success story of a young woman who overcame the disease, and that is all I needed to keep myself going. I can say for a fact that my condition has improved immensely.

I am currently applying to art schools as a graphic/communication design major.