027 Victory in the Valley: Tina Medlin on Crohn’s, Faith, and Building Community

In this conversation, Tina Marie Medlin opens up about 30+ years with Crohn’s disease, drug reactions, major surgeries (including an ostomy), and the spiritual warfare of not giving up—like enduring six days with an NG tube and a terrifying arterial bleed she faced fully awake. Through it all, Tina discovered a calling: Warrior Braids Ministry, personalized “Warrior Boxes,” and a monthly faith-based support group that makes sure no one walks the chronic-illness road alone. We talk about pacing life with limited energy, the sting of “you look good,” why transparency matters, and how community becomes a vessel for hope. If you’re in a valley, Tina’s story offers practical compassion and a steady reminder: God still has work for you here. ⏱️ Highlights: From denial in her 20s to drug-induced lupus and multiple biologics that failed Ostomy surgery and living with ongoing complications “Why I still push myself”—serving when you know it’ll cost spoons The “mustard seed” moment: hearing God’s whisper to start a ministry Warrior Boxes: personalized care for the newly diagnosed or struggling Christ & Coffee Time: creative merch that funds ministry work The hardest truths: appearance vs. reality, and not being defined only by illness Support systems through different seasons: kids, spouse, parents, and church friends That brutal NG-tube week and the awake arterial-clamp surgery—choosing not to give up What “warrior” means now: honesty, community, and never quitting   🗣️ Memorable Quotes: “If my eyes opened this morning, God still has work for me to do.” —Tina “A warrior isn’t unbreakable; a warrior is honest. Your story can be someone else’s guide.” —Tina “He didn’t give me Crohn’s, but He gave purpose to my having it.” —Tina “I push because it’s not about me—it’s about what God asked me to do.” —Tina 🛠️ Tools, Resources & Mentions: Warrior Braids Ministry: warriorbraidsministry.org Instagram: @warriorbraidsministry Christ & Coffee Time (proceeds fund ministry projects & Warrior Boxes)   🧭 Reflection / Journal Prompt: Where have you felt that quiet “mustard seed” nudge in your own valley? What one small step could you take this week to follow it?   🪴 One Tiny Step for the Week: List three people who help you feel less alone (or three you’d like to know better). Send one text today—ask for prayer, a check-in, or a coffee on Zoom.   🙋‍♀️ Guest Info: Name: Tina Marie Medlin Bio: Founder of Warrior Braids Ministry, Tina advocates for women living with chronic illness through personalized Warrior Boxes, a monthly faith-based support group, and creative merch that funds care initiatives. Links: warriorbraidsministry.org | Instagram @warriorbraidsministry Want gentle, honest support every week? Join The Unseen Sisterhood—your dose of encouragement for life and faith with chronic illness. Subscribe to the newsletter   🎬 Credits: Host: April Aramanda Guest: Tina Marie Medlin Editing & Production: April Aramanda Music: “The Invisible Illness Club” theme Show Notes & Assets: Cherry (ChatGPT) © The Invisible Illness Club