Issue 35: Jenna – Founder of Spoonie Spills Blog, Chronic Illness Advocate & Tru Faces Ambassador

Growing up chronically ill, Jenna experienced significant inaccessibility and societal oppression. Due to her experiences, This World Cheer Champion with Team Canada is passionate about raising awareness surrounding chronic illnesses and disabilities. She aims to be part of the movement to create a community of acceptance and inclusivity for everyone. Witnessing the societal notion of a one size fits all approach, Jenna aims to reframe how society views chronic illness through social media efforts.

Throughout Jenna’s life, she has lived with chronic pain and unexplained health concerns; at eleven years old, she received her diagnosis of Arthritis and, at fourteen, with Fibromyalgia. Receiving these diagnoses changed Jenna’s life in a variety of ways, some bad and some good; for Jenna having a chronic illness, has provided her with the beautiful opportunity to view the world in a different light and an appreciation and kindness towards others. At first, sharing her health challenges was not easy; growing up, Jenna felt alienated from her peers and asking for accommodations came with anxiety and fear. However, it has provided her with her life’s purpose to open up conversations to allow others to feel supported throughout their hardships. Jenna recounts her experiences growing up with chronic illness:

“My peers weren’t always kind about it and were pretty judgmental of anyone who presented “differences,” including myself. Being a young person, or any person with chronic illness, is challenging and can sometimes be very frustrating. I want to create a world accepting, accessible and kind-hearted society. I want children with a chronic illness like I was once to feel all the love and have an easier time than I did. Chronic illness awareness is important to me because I have lived with chronic illness for seven years. I have had my fair share of challenges physically, emotionally, socially and more. It hasn’t been an easy journey.”

In addition to Jenna’s experiences with chronic illness, she has had the opportunity to have multiple practical experiences supporting individuals with various abilities and challenges. Volunteerism has given Jenna a sense of purpose and created a positive zest for life. Community service has presented Jenna with a genuine love for acceptance and working to inspire others to show kindness and patients to those experiencing hardships. Raising awareness regarding chronic illness is essential to Jenna, as it allows for impactful dialogue challenging traditional conversations. It also hances a sense of community and provides a safe space where everyone can thrive despite their circumstances. The smiles of others motivate Jenna to create a space for those with chronic illness while being part of the change for future generations never to have to be worried about societal stigmatization.

Jenna wants you, the reader, to know:

“I want able-bodied people to be aware of what the CI experience is like so they can be more empathetic and understanding. I want future generations of chronically ill warriors to deal with no stigma and live freely and as happily in society as they can without shame, embarrassment, or bullying. I want a world where more people choose kindness and love. I want to empower chronically ill warriors to chase their dreams. Live life as positively as possible and not let societal barriers get in the way of them being authentic and doing all the incredible things they want. I want readers to know that if there’s a cause you feel passionate about, don’t be afraid to go for it and spread awareness. You can do anything you want, and don’t be afraid to start attempting to make a change.”

Want to learn more about Jenna and her platform? Check out her Instagram

@_missjennak__ & @spoonie_spills

Are you someone who is a positive change-maker? Have a story to tell? Passionate about a particular issue? Contact The REAL Resilient Michayla Del Guidice for more information:

Michayla Del Guidice | RSSW., B.A., M.Ed. Candidate., Doctoral Applicant

Work with me in 2023 - Email: resiliencyspeaks@gmail.com

Instagram: @msmichaylad_

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