Being born with a congenital chronic disease can be one of life’s biggest challenges. For many it may become a devastating & disempowering condition, but some very special humans have a way of turning obstacles into opportunities, blessings even.
On this episode Dylan sits down with Ajna Christoffersen, who was born with VACTERL Association Syndrome, a disease that essentially rendered her unable to ingest any foods, have normal bowel & urinary function, breathe with ease, as well as renal and cardiac capacity & more.
However, while managing on a daily basis her wavering physical health, undergoing 50+ surgeries and 150+ hospital admissions, Ajna still managed to turn the tables on life and use the cards she was dealt with to become an internationally renowned runway model, disability advocate and motivational speaker.
If you are looking for inspiration on how to look at life through a different lens, and how to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth & service, as well as how to put your skills & passions to service humanity as a whole, this episode is for you.
ABOUT OUR GUEST: ANJA CHRISTOFFERSEN
Anja Christoffersen is a woman of many roles; an international model, author, motivational speaker, disability advocate and entrepreneur – with her story showcased in media around the world.
Anja has a life-long, congenital disability – VACTERL – that sparked a passion to improve equity and quality of life for others facing disability and chronic illness.
She is the Founder and Executive Director of Champion Health Agency – a world-first ‘lived experience talent agency’ representing people with disability, chronic illness and carers to access meaningful opportunities to create positive change based on their lived experience.
It was Anja’s sharing of her story that propelled her career in motivational speaking, advocacy and consumer advisory. Anja has presented about her disability, incontinence and overcoming obstacles and adversity in big & small platforms all around the world.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
Table of Contents
Being Born with VACTERL Association Syndrome
VACTERL stands for vertebral defects, anal atresia, cardiac defects, tracheo-esophageal fistula, renal anomalies, and limb abnormalities.
People diagnosed with VACTERL association typically have at least three of these characteristic features.
Anja has 6 of the 7 abnormalities.
Anja’s Early Life Struggles With This Disease
35 surgeries
150+ hospital admissions
100+ times put under anesthesia
Anja’s Views On The Medical System/Establishment
Seeking Aid In Alternative Remedies & Therapies
Acceptance vs. Striving To Heal
Finding Empowerment Through Challenges
Becoming An International Runway Model & Walking Amsterdam Fashion Week
Writing Her Book & Becoming a Spokesperson For The Disabled
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