I was first diagnosed with Lyme disease when I was seven years old. No one knew at the time that this diagnosis would be the start of nearly two decades of illness, of new diagnoses, and of managing my health. I have always been more than my illness, but my experience living with chronic illness has shaped my life and my identity. It’s also inspired me to use my voice to share my story and to empower others to do the same, whether they have a chronic illness or not.