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This isn't just another blog post. It's a testament to the unwavering human spirit, a story that will grab your heart and leave you cheering. Today, we're shining a spotlight on Cheyanna, our Night 2 Uplift gala's opening prayer giver and a true inspiration.
As her aunt, watching Cheyanna speak with such strength and faith sent shivers down my spine. Why? Because this young woman, a leader we see today, has battled a storm most of us can't even imagine.
Nine Months Old and Fighting for Life
Cheyanna's story began at a fragile nine months. Imagine a baby consuming more calories than a grown man, yet unable to gain weight or grow. A constant, gnawing hunger, but zero feeling of fullness – a truly baffling situation. Countless doctor visits, and tests left her medical team stumped. They could only label it a terrifying "failure to thrive." Listless, losing her hair, and unable to speak, Cheyanna's world seemed to be collapsing.
Unveiling the Mystery: A Rare Condition
Nearly two years passed without a diagnosis. It was Talaya, Cheyanna's determined mom, who wouldn't give up. Her search led her beyond traditional medicine, and finally, the answer surfaced – fructose and sucrose malabsorption disorder, a rare and complex condition. This diagnosis, later confirmed by Dell Children's Medical Center, meant Cheyanna would face this challenge for life.
From "Failure to Thrive" to Food Obsession
The lack of proper nutrition not only affected Cheyanna physically, but emotionally too. Fear of going hungry again manifested in heartbreaking ways. As Talaya describes, "Cheyanna developed the mentality of a starved child. She would hide food, search for scraps, and never felt satisfied."
Hope Ignites: A Journey of Healing
But this isn't a story of despair. It's a story of unwavering faith, years of relentless therapy – physical, mental, and nutritional – and a family's unwavering love. Finally, at the age of six, Cheyanna was healed and ready to start school!
Cheyanna's Light Shines Bright
Today, Cheyanna stands tall – a dancer, a runner, a hunter, a leader, and a mentor. Her story is one of resilience, radiating hope and joy. She has a unique ability to "see" others, understand their needs, and offer unwavering support. College beckons, and her contributions to CC4C (Cheyanna's Champions 4 Children) are a testament to her strength. As a teen advocate, she's raised over $20,000!
A Legacy of Love and Hope
Cheyanna's motto, then and now, perfectly encapsulates her spirit: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). Her story is a beacon of hope for families facing the darkness of undiagnosed conditions. It's a reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, the human spirit can not only survive, but thrive and inspire others.
This is Cheyanna. This is hope.
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