Being The Phoenix

Hi Humans,

My name is Katie Miller. I’m 34 years old and have been an Only Human Advocate now for a few months. I love everything about the program- from the amazing causes- to the awesome gear. I’m so honored to be able to work with a company that makes such a difference in the lives of so many. They make it easy by actually providing the platform for me to create change. It’s a one of a kind program that gives me the tools I need to learn how to better love my neighbor, which is the basis of my faith life. I believe God created us all and put us here on earth to love, but we are only human and because of that at times we fail terribly. That’s where this program steps in and helps me find simple ways to make big differences.

My story is complicated, as are most stories of people that have learned about being broken and vulnerable. I am currently halfway through earning my Masters degree in art therapy, as well as becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I love the journey and am so excited to be learning new things constantly. My undergrad is in fine arts- I mostly enjoy painting and collage, as well as some sculpture. I’m a bit late in my educational pursuits because I’ve had to take several semesters off intermittently.

The last 7 years have been an extreme challenge for me, as I have had what started as horrible chronic joint pain problems that came on suddenly in my hips and pelvis. This was extremely sudden and baffling after years of having a healthy and active lifestyle. I began seeking help and answers for my condition and solutions to my pain- 1 year turned to 2, 2 to 5, 5 to 7. 2 specialists turned to 10, and by now I’m sure I’ve seen well over 20. Now, 7 years, 10 surgeries, and 2 hip replacements later I am still in excruciating pain. To compound that I’ve started struggling with what’s known as medical PTSD from all the negative experiences and painful procedures and surgeries I’ve had over the years. Thankfully though, I recently found an amazing doctor and am in the process of getting injections that really seem to be working. She is working hard to help relieve my pain and find answers…. finally. She listens to what I say and believes my words are true… finally. She isn’t dismissive or condescending but in her eyes I see true empathy and a desire to help… finally. Finally there is a light at the end of this tunnel. Finally I have that hope again. Of course I am hoping to get back to doing some of the things I love soon that I haven’t been able to because of mobility issues. However, I tell this story with no regrets, no take-backs. I wouldn’t change one injection or undo one stitch of this story of suffering and pain because buried in the midst of it, was also the brightest moments of joy. All of those moments made me who I am. Everything I went through taught me to slow down and listen to people. It’s taught me so many things about compassion, patience, and love for one another. It taught me to walk in other peoples shoes and be more sensitive to their story, because everyone truly does have a story. Honestly, I know there’s a reason for this painful season in my life. Nothing is wasted. Everything I have been through is what brought me here, and I’m pretty happy with where I’ve ended up. I read a quote early in my pain journey and made a choice to try my best to live by it as often as I could:

“I love when people that have been through hell walk out of the flames carrying buckets of water for those still consumed by the fire.” – Stephanie Sparkles

I believe everyone in this group and the Only Human organization carries this attitude and that is why I am so proud to be in the advocate program with all of you awesome people.

So that’s a little bit about me. If you’re walking through something scary and can’t see hope, I promise it’s there. If you don’t believe the suffering will pass, I promise it does. You’re never alone.

I can’t write anything on this topic without thanking my family, especially my mom for her relentless love and amazing strength. She’s never left my side, through the good, bad, or ugly. I love my family more than words.

Thank for reading a little about me, and thank you to the Only Human staff- especially Sandra- for being so amazing and encouraging me share my story.