Being Resilient and Accepting

Most people think of cholesterol as a number they can change with diet or exercise, but those of us with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) know it’s not so simple.

This genetic condition doesn’t respond predictably to lifestyle adjustments. Our bodies have their own rules, and living within those limits has taught me a lot about resilience, acceptance, and even gratitude in unexpected ways.

I felt betrayed by my own body

Resilience is one of those qualities that sounds straightforward until you have to live it.

When I was diagnosed, my initial reaction was fear and frustration. Here I was, a carefree 18-year-old, suddenly told that my cholesterol was beyond my control. I felt helpless, almost betrayed by my own body. But as I dove into understanding FH, I learned that resilience isn’t about "fixing" the problem. It’s about finding ways to work with it and moving forward despite limitations.

Managing my health through the fear

Over time, living with FH has taught me that resilience doesn’t mean we don’t feel fear or worry. In fact, those feelings often come up. Each doctor’s appointment brings a mix of hope and anxiety. Resilience, I’ve found, is about holding space for that fear while still showing up for myself, still taking my medication, and still managing my health as best I can. It’s a kind of quiet strength that lets you acknowledge your vulnerabilities without letting them define you.

Acceptance isn't giving up, but embracing reality

Acceptance has been another key part of my journey. In the beginning, I wanted to fight against FH, to find a way around it. I’d read every diet article and tried every wellness trend, hoping there was some hidden trick to lower my cholesterol without medication.

But FH doesn’t work that way, and that realization was both humbling and freeing. I learned that acceptance isn’t giving up; it’s about embracing the reality in front of me and doing the best I can within it.

Acceptance has helped me build a balanced life

In accepting my FH, I’ve become more compassionate toward myself. There’s a huge focus in today’s world on controlling health outcomes, and sometimes that can feel overwhelming, like if you don’t have "perfect" cholesterol, you’re somehow at fault. But for those of us with FH, "normal" looks a little different. Accepting this has helped me let go of the pressure to measure up to an ideal that simply isn’t realistic for me.

This acceptance has also helped me build a life that feels balanced and intentional. I’ve learned to focus on the health factors I can control, like eating well, exercising, and managing stress — not because I believe they’ll cure me, but because they’re the best ways I can support my body. This approach has reshaped my entire relationship with health, helping me focus on wellness for its own sake, not as a means to an end.

Resilience is a physical and emotional journey

Living with FH has also shown me how resilient and capable our bodies truly are. Despite the genetic predisposition, my body works hard to keep me going. There’s something inspiring about recognizing that, while I may have to navigate around FH, my body is still strong, and is still working with me, not against me. It’s a reminder that resilience isn’t just about mental toughness; it’s a physical and emotional journey, a daily act of self-care and self-respect.

I don't take my health for granted

One of the most surprising lessons FH has taught me is gratitude.

At first, it seemed strange to feel gratitude toward a condition that forces me to be so vigilant. But over time, I’ve come to appreciate the clarity FH has given me about my priorities. Having to monitor my health closely means I don’t take it for granted. This condition has helped me value every little moment of wellness, every day I feel strong, and every positive health milestone, however small it might seem to others.

Learning to be present

In many ways, living with FH has taught me to be more present. It’s not just about the future risks or managing numbers; it’s about living well today. I make choices every day that support my health, not out of fear but out of love and respect for the life I want to live. This sense of presence has been a true gift, a lesson that might not have come as clearly without the context of FH.

Building a more compassionate relationship with myself

So, while I wouldn’t say living with FH is easy, I also wouldn’t trade the lessons it’s taught me. Resilience and acceptance aren’t quick fixes — they’re ongoing processes, ones that I practice daily. FH has pushed me to grow in ways I might not have otherwise, helping me build a deeper, more compassionate relationship with myself and my health. It’s been a reminder that, even with a condition that feels limiting, we are still capable of growth, purpose, and joy.

Resilience and acceptance are gifts we give ourselves

In the end, FH has shown me that resilience and acceptance are gifts we give ourselves. They’re not about conquering our challenges or eliminating them, but about learning to live fully with them, honoring our journey, and embracing every step of the way.