My Story: Cheryl Walker

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

In 2006, my world felt like it turned upside down. I gave my life to Christ, not knowing my “yes” would cost me everything. I couldn't understand what was happening to me. I had sores in my mouth, nosebleeds that would last for hours, my body ached and was bruised to the touch, and I was constantly tired. If it wasn’t for my coworker insisting that I needed to go to the doctor, I probably wouldn't be alive today. I went to see my primary doctor. He took one look at me and said go to the hospital; you’re going to be admitted. What? I’ve never been sick in my life. What do you mean I’m going to be admitted? When I got there, I surely wasn't going home. The physician couldn't believe I was still alive because I barely had any platelets left in my body. I was admitted and taken to the ICU after being given platelets down in the ER. They already began speculating that it was lupus.

Who has been there for you? How?

My daughter is amazing. She was 2 years old when I got sick and really started to understand that I was sick by 3. She told me at that age that she was going to be a doctor and help heal me. My child then began to learn how to read at 3. She tested for a magnet school and was accepted. She has had straight A's and is now in gifted classes and she has exceeded the standards in every subject on end of the year tests. My journey is shaping my child's future and makes me determined to keep fighting and be strong for her.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

My biggest accomplishment is becoming a licensed minister. I am able to share my story while giving honor to God is a promise that I must fulfill. I am not disabled any more. I’m able to work full time and live my life as close to normal as possible.