“Kristi” is a surfer, barista, and university student studying for arts and science degrees in philosophy and mathematical modeling. Living on the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula on the southeast coast of Australia, she’s deeply passionate about salt water and amazing coffee — even though she’s not allowed to drink it. Above all else, she loves traveling the world! Diagnosed with stage IV lupus nephritis at 20, she’s determined to not be defined by her autoimmune condition. Using writing as a medium for self-expression, she hopes to share her life and journey to both raise awareness and support others in similar situations. A big believer in the concept of dialectics, she loves sharing and hearing unorthodox, sometimes controversial, views. She’s quirky by choice, inquisitive by nature, and smiling always!
There are many things I believe wholeheartedly. I believe that if you send out good energy, that at the right time, it will come full circle and be repaid to you. I believe that in every moment I hold my life in my own hands, and although I’m…
Sharing a bed with someone can be incredibly difficult for a number of reasons. Snoring, restlessness and overheating are a few drawbacks just off the top of my head. Along with the long list of other variables that go into the mix when sleeping next to a…
When you think of investment your mind goes straight to things of monetary value, like shares, stocks and property. You only invest what is deemed most valuable and for most people it probably is money. But for me it’s a little different, as the most valuable assets in…
Being treated for lupus means that I’m in an unofficial agreement with my doctor. Both of us know there is no clear-cut cause of lupus, and therefore, no cure. With this knowledge I accept that any medication prescribed to me isn’t actually treating my condition, only the…
There are so many things to say and, though I’m certain this one column won’t completely suffice, I’ll do my best to turn my feelings into words. “Thank you” doesn’t quite cover it, but that’s where I’ll start. Because for many of you, it’s long overdue. I never…
Have you ever had the feeling you were made for something? It’s more than just being passionate; it’s filling a void you didn’t know existed and a sense of belonging unlike any other. What if the thing you loved most was terrible for you in the worst…
Being chronically ill is a lot of responsibility. I must make decisions consciously, as doing so may have repercussions, some of which may be serious. From going out with my friends, to eating or participating in sports, there isn’t a time I’m not solely responsible for my…
We live in a society where too often the assumption is that the future is guaranteed. But it’s not. I’ve spent too much of my life holding out for that “rainy day.” However, being diagnosed with lupus has taught me that it’s crucial to make it count…
I’ve never been one for what is referred to by my family as “land sports.” Translation: I’m clumsy, uncoordinated and when solid ground is beneath me I’ll most likely either trip over my own feet, or run into something. I’ve always been that way. However, in the…
The thing about living with an invisible illness is that upon first glance, to the naked eye, you wouldn’t believe I have it. But let me open up my world to you and take you on a tour. You might not notice it at first, but if you…
“Kristi” is a surfer, barista, and university student studying for arts and science degrees in philosophy and mathematical modeling. Living on the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula on the southeast coast of Australia, she’s deeply passionate about salt water and amazing coffee — even though she’s not allowed to drink it. Above all else, she loves traveling the world! Diagnosed with stage IV lupus nephritis at 20, she’s determined to not be defined by her autoimmune condition. Using writing as a medium for self-expression, she hopes to share her life and journey to both raise awareness and support others in similar situations. A big believer in the concept of dialectics, she loves sharing and hearing unorthodox, sometimes controversial, views. She’s quirky by choice, inquisitive by nature, and smiling always!