THE STORY- THE VISION- THE HOPE

My name is Felicia Reinhard. I am many things. A visionary, writer, photographer, dance coach, daughter, and friend. And on November 9th 2013 I became a fighter. 

During the summer and fall of 2013 I noticed my body changing. I was feeling more tired, drained, and was getting sick more often. My body started to hurt when waking up and my mobility started to fail. At 22 years old waking up not able to walk is far from normal. After visiting my doctor and having my concerns be dismissed "because I was so young" I decided to take action myself. I knew something wasn't right and I was going to get to the bottom of it. I wasn't going to accept that I was "fine". I called into Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN and was seen right away. Within 3 days I was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Autoimmune Arthritis that affects the spine, joints, and organs. My body was attacking itself and making me incredibly sick. Since then I have had over 30 surgical procedures, have survived a PE, sepsis 3 times, and too many hospital stays to count.

It's amazing how much living I have packed into 32 years of life. Some moments it feels like it's been forever and other moments it feels like my life has just started. I have learned a lot in 32 years, through the good times and the bad. I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life, even if they were in your life for such a short time. I've learned that having two moms, one in heaven and one on earth doesn't make me weird, it makes me blessed. I've learned that "making a living" is not the same thing as making a life. I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I've learned that people who care about you will ALWAYS be there, no matter when and no matter what. And I've learned that I am loved now until forever up above and here on earth, and everyday I'm here I can do my best to give that love back.

But even against all the odds…

I still dance

I still coach

I still travel

I still dream

and I still HAVE FAITH!