Interview with Risa August: The Road Unpaved - Living Beyond Limits

When doctors dismiss your symptoms for seven years despite you knowing something is deeply wrong with your body, what do you do? For Risa, that medical journey led to a life-altering diagnosis of acromegaly – a rare condition caused by a pituitary tumor she affectionately named "Bubba." The moment an endocrinologist finally validated her experience with four simple words – "you are not crazy" – marked the beginning of a profound transformation. Rather than allowing her diagnosis to define her limitations, Risa embarked on an extraordinary path of self-discovery, eventually cycling the Pacific Coast for six weeks just two years after completing radiation treatment.Throughout our conversation, Risa reveals the contrasting aspects of her healing journey – from the woman in purple hoodie who could barely climb a hill to the defiant Wonder Woman who sewed her own costume for radiation treatments. These personas represent the universal struggle between surrender and perseverance that many face during profound adversity.What truly shines through is how Risa channeled her experience into purpose, becoming an advocate who speaks at medical conferences to improve, and cultivate better knowledge doctor-patient relationships. Rather than harboring resentment toward the medical establishment that initially dismissed her, she chose collaboration to create meaningful change. Risa's upcoming TED Talk on "how a single word can rebuild your life" further demonstrates her belief in the transformative power of language.Perhaps most inspiring is Risa's evolved definition of adventure – finding that connection and community through simple things, and trying new things is where her heart is. Her journey reminds us that transformation doesn't happen overnight but emerges through daily choices and moments of breakthrough.Ask yourself: What's holding you back? Is it your own limiting beliefs? What's one small step could you take today toward unleashing your authentic self?Author of "The Road Unpaved - Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike" CLICK HERE - FOR AUTHOR PAGE AND PURCHASING OPTIONS!5-Star Readers' Favorite, Independent Press Award Winner, International Impact Book Awards Winner, Next Generation Indie Book Awards Winner, Regal Summit Book Award Winner, IAA William Shakespeare Finalist!Support the showvoice-within.covoicewithin_anthologyvoicewithin_publications