In this week’s episode of The UpBeat Podcast powered by CoachArt, our Executive Director and host Greg sits down for a chat with Alexa Chronister, the inspiring Founder and President of Fight Like A Warrior, a non-profit organization “working to unite, empower, and advocate for those fighting life-altering health conditions around the world.”
Alexa’s medical challenges started early in childhood but went undiagnosed for years. Doctors originally shrugged off her problems as “growing pains,” but by the time she got to high school, Alexa’s health challenges took her back for a diagnosis — and she was told by a physician that the pain was “in her head.”
Her amazing parents taught her about self-advocacy and empowerment, so she persisted in seeking answers, and finally she was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder, and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, a condition affecting the flow of blood through the body.
Alexa tells us about her journey to find a diagnosis and what she learned from that experience. She also shares how her condition has inspired her to take action to help others, beginning with a toy sale in elementary school. She now runs her own organization to advocate for and provide a community to anyone struggling with health issues.
You can see Alexa’s amazing work online:
- Fight Like A Warrior is her organization fighting for empowerment and advocacy for chronically ill people everywhere.
- Cards For Warriors was the seed that sprouted into Fight Like A Warrior — it’s a fun program that sends uplifting cards to people with illnesses.
- Alexa created the hashtag #sickfightsback. Check out the wonderful posts on Twitter and on Instagram.
Do you know some other children with chronic illnesses who have been inspired to help others? Have some questions? Head on over to The UpBeat’s private Facebook group!
If you have a child who may qualify for CoachArt programs, visit: CoachArt.org
