Written by Amy Reinhardt
If you’d told me that I’d have an autoimmune disease at 27, I would’ve said you’re crazy. How could someone with a scarce medical history have kidney failure? That’s exactly what happened to me in July 2021. I was diagnosed with Goodpasture Syndrome – a rare disease where your body attacks its lungs and kidneys.
I never expected a curveball in my late 20s, but then again, I didn’t expect all the blessings that would come from it.
It’s been nearly eight months. Eight months that have changed my life drastically. I lost nearly 20 pounds and more than 50 percent of my hair. I follow a strict renal diet and take a handful of pills twice a day. I also rely on nightly in-home dialysis treatments. Being immunosuppressed means always avoiding crowds and wearing a face mask. I use technology to stay connected to friends and gave up my apartment to move back in with my family.
I won’t lie and say my journey has been easy. Quite the opposite. There’ve been many days I’ve cried, yelled, cursed, and sulked. I can admit that it sucks to be hooked up to a dialysis machine. It sucks to be more susceptible to infection. Bottom line, it sucks to be sick.
But God has a reason for giving me this cross. It was never meant to punish, but rather to strengthen and sanctify. By electing to embrace the weight of my cross with His divine help, I would encounter lasting joy.
I never understood how someone could suffer joyfully until my diagnosis. During one of my first nights in the ICU, I remember praying and promising to offer all my suffering to the Lord. I knew I couldn’t carry this burden on my own. Instead of casting blame, I put my full trust in His will.
I never harbored any resentment for what happened. By embracing my illness, I had the opportunity to grow closer to the One Who Knows. He who knows all my pain, loneliness, frustration, and weakness. He is with me through it all.
If I could share one piece of wisdom with you, it’s this… When you’re in the midst of your suffering, say this prayer: Jesus, I Trust In You.
At 28 years old, Amy Reinhardt has been an Ascension parishioner for over half her life. She led Disciples Dwelling and was heavily involved in the young adult ministry, up until getting diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. She strives to radiate Christ’s light and love to all who are blessed to know her. If you’d like to read Amy’s health updates, follow https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/amyreinhardt.