The Invisible Illness Club | Chronic Illness, Auto Immune

015 Finding Purpose Through Pain: Melissa Smith on Chronic Illness, Faith, and Supporting Women

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⚠️ Trigger Warning:
This episode contains discussion of medical trauma, near-death experiences, and infertility

 

Summary

Melissa Smith was born with cerebral palsy, lives with multiple chronic conditions, and has survived a life-threatening surgery. But her story isn’t about staying stuck in the pain—it’s about how she turned that pain into purpose. In this episode, Melissa shares the heart behind her business, Grace and Glory Virtual Services, and how God used her hardest moments to equip her to serve other women. We talk about grief, burnout, spiritual dry spells, and the importance of community. She also opens up about the power of prayer, her Renew & Uplift Sessions, and what keeps her going on the toughest days. This is a conversation for anyone who’s ever felt like they were barely holding on.

 

⏱️ Timestamped Highlights:

 

  • 00:00 – Melissa shares the origins of Grace and Glory Virtual Services
  • 05:40 – “I want others to know they’re not alone. I’ve walked that road.”
  • 10:30 – The critical role of community for Christian women with chronic illness
  • 15:50 – Grieving what your body can’t do and finding new ways to serve
  • 20:00 – Supporting online entrepreneurs and caregivers with virtual services
  • 23:45 – Near-death experience after surgery and how God showed up
  • 32:00 – “I wouldn’t want to walk through this life without my Lord.”
  • 35:00 – What are Renew & Uplift Sessions and who they’re for
  • 40:00 – Final encouragement: “Even if all you can do is say His name, that’s enough.”
  • 44:00 – Chronic illness comfort kit: tea, Tolkien, and baking shows
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    The Invisible Illness Club | Chronic Illness, Auto ImmuneBy April Aramanda, Invisible Illness Club