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Meet Sophia Advent of Cleveland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sophia Advent

Hi Sophia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hi everyone, I am Sophia Advent, a 26-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio. I started sharing my journey about living with Chronic Lyme Disease, POTS, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in 2016. I wanted to spread positivity and share my life to help others living with chronic illnesses know that they aren’t alone. I also started to bring awareness about the conditions I have and advocate for others going through similar situations. My mantra is adapt, and I believe this has gotten me through my toughest times and I continue to fall back on this word no matter what is going on in life. This mantra, my family who is the greatest support system, and gratitude have gotten me to where I am today.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely been a journey. I feel like the main struggle has been being limited due to my health. I’ve experienced this limitation with college, jobs, and hobbies. I believe even though I have chronic illnesses, these illnesses aren’t who I am. These limitations can be frustrating, but I’ve learned it is about adapting and finding new ways to accomplish my goals. For example, I so badly wanted to get my college degree, and I started how I envisioned at on-campus schools, but due to a relapse, I had to move back home for Lyme treatment. I decided to finish college and get my degree through an online program at Arizona State University. Even though that process wasn’t exactly how I saw myself getting my degree, I am proud of myself and achieved my goal. I feel like struggles and challenges are a part of life and finding alternatives or adaptations and not giving up on yourself is key.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, I am enrolled and working on courses to get my certification in data analytics. I am pursuing that while I am going through treatment to heal and strengthen my immune system. I studied and got my degree in Biology and have previously worked as an R&D Technician (but had to leave due to my health). I have also been modeling here and there for around 10 years. I love the creativity of photoshoots and all of the amazing and talented people I’ve been able to meet and work with. I started posting in 2016 on YouTube about my life with chronic illnesses and continue to try to bring awareness by posting on social platforms such as Instagram.

I would say that I am most proud of my determination. I feel like my health and treatments are like a full-time job, so I am proud that I continue to pursue my interests and goals. I also believe this sets me apart from others because I can handle a lot on my plate. Even though some days are harder than others, I always try to look on the bright side and find the positives in situations.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I believe in promoting your natural self and finding features and/or qualities that you love about yourself. I am all about enjoying the little things in life. Don’t get me wrong, I love doing makeup and getting glammed up but these days, I feel like overconsumption of products and beauty enhancements such as botox and fillers are trending and the new normal. I can’t imagine being a young girl today; I would love to be an example and show the younger generations that these aren’t necessary to feel or look beautiful. It is ok to not be perfect or look perfect and I think it is extremely important to show this, especially in today’s times with social media. I encourage everyone reading this to think of one feature or part of themselves that they love. The special thing is that there is only one you, so be grateful and proud of who you are. When you’re feeling down about yourself try focusing on something that you love about yourself!

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