My Story.

I am a Flinstone born and raised (Flint, MI). I received a BFA in Acting at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. Shortly upon moving to NYC to pursue my career on Broadway and the performing arts, I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease in March 2014. From that moment on, I began a new life and endured my first emergency surgery - a temporary colostomy, which includes a pouch over an incision in the abdomen, where waste enters. Thankfully, I worked hard to rebuild my contacts in the industry and gain exposure, while keeping my condition a secret.

Things were turning around for my good until March 2017. It was then that the greatest storm hit my path. Due to blood clots, I went into an induced coma for nearly two months; and after several surgeries, I lost my small intestine. Doctors stated that I had a 15% chance of living, and I needed to receive a rare transplant, a small bowel (intestine) transplant - something my family and I had never heard of until that moment. The catch was I must get "well enough" to be transferred to a hospital that has surgeons who specialize in this surgery. 

By the grace of God, I got well enough to be transferred to Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC. Here is where another journey began. I met Dr. Iyer, Dr. Moon and their amazing transplantation team. After more surgeries, I was sent home to do an intravenous treatment through a central line, called Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN), every day for 14-16 hours until receiving THE CALL for a transplant. This stage is called Short Gut Syndrome which includes a G tube drain in the absence of the intestine. TPN gave me man made nutrients, while I was not able to eat for two years. No intestine = No food.

Despite those traumatic events, I was inspired to create a support group and ministry that uses the arts as a tool to inspire and uplift patients, revealing that they have the power to overcome any diagnosis presented to them through the Spirit of Christ. This was birthed at Mt. Sinai Hospital, and it has expanded to other hospitals throughout all the boroughs of NYC. 

May 19, 2019 was a BIG DAY! I received my 2nd small bowel transplant straight from Heaven. However, in 2022, I faced acute and intense rejection that resulted in the removal of the 2nd intestinal transplant. Here I stand, 20+ surgeries later awaiting my 3rd transplant, and I couldn’t be more grateful for life. I’ve learned that gratitude is the evidence of elevation! Each day I am grateful for the gift of life. I am an instrument of inspiration for those in my community. I am a successful professional voice over artist, and I recognize that trials give birth to amazing treasures.

My Documentary with @seenstories

https://www.facebook.com/weareseenstories/videos/432085662161172 

Feature on Donate Life America 

https://donatelife.net/stories-of-hope/intestines-donation/aeisha-small-bowel-recipient/