Where I have been | Life/Health Update 

“I’m disappointed when I wake up in the morning...’’ that hits home. I am thinking of you and have missed you greatly ❤️

At 25 I was hit by a drunk driver. My friend with me was pregnant so we all decided to go to the hospital just to be sure. I had a little neck pain but nothing crazy. When I got to the hospital they did an x ray. They found that there was a weird shadow that they couldn’t explain on my neck which led them to do a CT scan. At that point they thought I had a fractured neck which completely shocked me as I wasn’t in much pain. The results came back and they told me that I had a lump on my thyroid. For most of my early teens and 20s I struggled with my weight anxiety depression and a variety of other issues. Since my dad passed away when I was 16 and I chalked all of those emotions up to that.I knew absolutely nothing about my thyroid either. I went in to do a fine needle biopsy with 50 needles and it turned out that I had thyroid cancer. I could not believe it. The doctors told me that this is part of the reason that contributed to my weight gain and all the mental health issues that I was having. The most frustrating part is that I sought treatment for medical providers throughout my life that I was struggling with my mental health. I even saw a dermatologist because my face was breaking out and horrible rashes. All I kept getting was it’s hormonal it’s hormonal. Or they threw benzos at me. I ended up hav Having a full thyroidectomy when I was 26. It’s taken some time but everything has leveled out, no more anxiety, no more depression, no more benzo’s. Although the cancer was terrifying I felt like I finally got the answer I needed. I wish doctors talked to more women about thyroid cancer as it is one of the leading cancers in women. I normally don’t share my story as I don’t want any sympathy but more educate women on advocating for yourself with your medical providers. A simple blood panel would have alerted them that something was off but they didn’t do it and I fully trusted them. That tumor had been in my throat and it had grown to 3 inches it had been there since I was 17 years old, Which was nine years. Because it was never found the Cancer cells spread into my neck and up the back of my neck towards my brain stem. Although I hate to say it I’m grateful for the girl that decided to drink too much and get into her car that night. She saved my life. I just wanted to pass the message to anybody that is feeling not like themselves to not rule out medical conditions. make sure you advocate for yourself. Doctors are humans as well and they can become complacent. These things happen every single day. Advocate for blood work know your body and listen to it.

I’ve never related to an influencers “life update” like I did just now! Your vulnerability is beyond admirable. Thank you for sharing!!!

Oh, I'm a MD in Sweden and what you went through with the overmedication in your youth, that by itself is a major traumatic experience! Not every trauma is a car crash. In regards to your friendships, another way to view it is that your current you will act as a filter among your friends and the best ones will stay and if anyone responds negatively then they can become an acquaintance. Also, the words you expressed comes from fear of not being accepted when you don't deem yourself worthy. You are always worthy! Best of everything!

This truly has been one shit show of a year. I lost my 15 year old childhood dog last month myself and it’s so hard to see how others can feel your pain and sit in it with you. I know these are just words on a screen but you are someone that so many people, including myself, look up to and have so much regard for. You are strong as hell and you will get through this. You are so brave for sharing this with us and I am 100% feeling for you, with you and sending you so much love and positivity. Thank you for being so authentic and badass through all the years and social media/internet bullshit. ❤️

I noticed you have your nails back! I hope small things like that are making you feel a little more like yourself. I’m a researcher by profession and LOVE the thought and depth you put into your videos. Continue to get well both physically and mentally. Happy early birthday!

I went through a thyroid journey as well, mine was different in that I was hyper (Graves Disease). Trust what your body needs! People aren’t educated enough on how important our thyroid is and just know that I empathize with you! A thyroid storm is the scariest thing I’ve ever experienced. This will be an ongoing process but know you’re not alone 🖤. Therapy honestly saved me before the medical procedures.

This felt like catching up with a girlfriend I haven't heard from in a while. ❤️ My goodness you've had a heck of a year! I'm so sorry you're going through so much with your health. *Sending big hugs* I'm so glad you're getting help, I hope you're able to see the psychiatrist soon. The exercise will help, I totally get the struggle of having to drive somewhere to take a walk, I don't feel safe walking in my neighborhood. I hope you're able to keep taking steps for your mental health, do whatever gives you sanity. If one of those is making videos, do it, if making videos hurts you then step away and know that the people who care about you would rather you take care of yourself however you need to. Coping with so many life changing things, it will be a learning curve to find things that bring you joy so that your life isn't swallowed up by the problems (I know it's even harder right now with covid). I haven't been through what you're going through, but I do understand the struggle of not letting your mind focus on something horrible and life changing constantly, the anxiety and panic attacks, ect and making you sick mentally. I'm terrible at accepting help from people as well, I'm learning. I hope you're confiding in someone, maybe finding a workout buddy. Please do take care of yourself!!

Your struggles are very familiar, thyroid issues included. I'm so sorry for your troubles, but I appreciate you speaking out about them because it has personally helped me feel less alone. Sending healing thoughts and positive energy your way.

It's like seeing an old friend. Girl, I've missed you. The world needs more you.

It’s truly been such a difficult and draining year- so sorry to hear you’ve been dealing with all of this. Take care of your health and well being. We’ll be here to support you when you’re ready to come back. Also, I LOVE your lengthy, thorough, in depth reviews- just thought you should know that. Many of us truly value all of your hard work. Sending you positive healing vibes ❤️

GIRL. This video speaks to me. I have Hashimoto’s, major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder , and I’m avoiding seeing a psychiatrist because my insurance sucks and won’t cover my visits until I reach my deductible. I’m sure you’ve discovered that the per visit cost for a psychiatrist is astronomical. I see now how important mental healthcare reform is. Currently, I’m on synthroid and an antidepressant, but it’s sort of a trial and error situation at this point. In other words, I have incredible empathy for your circumstances. You’re not alone. We’ll get through this. ❤️

It's not a pity party. You're having symptoms of a sickness that you didn't cause ❤️ you're amazing and it's so inspiring to see you so proactive in getting better, but the feelings you're having are the symptoms which you shouldn't feel guilty for. Without those feelings how would you know you are not well? Hope you get the answers you need soon and your recovery isnt a long road x

You are stronger than you think, YOU will come out of this victoriously. Praying for you.

You're one of the people I admire still the most here in this platform. I understand things here also work differently BUT you most certainly will have my subscription just as many thousands others. Some things we have no way of controlling and we're just caught up in the moment it starts hitting but you'll be and feel better I'm almost positive of that. You're strong too, however this might positively impact you, a LOT of us are here sharing experiences, relating in ways, and reassuring you you have our positive affirmation and thought. And views. Can't express enough love that I'm sending. U GO ✨

Prayers for you...I’m a physician so I know the medical field can be hard to navigate. Psychiatrists just prescribe so I would still recommend getting a psychologist to talk and work out things and help you to redirect your thoughts/thought processes and figure out who you are now - meds won’t touch that part ❤️

I am sure that most of us are experiencing depression at different levels right now when we never have had that problem before. I keep saying I want my old life back and I am sure I am not alone in that feeling. You are a trooper you are dealing with a lot right now but you are taking a positive route to getting better. Will be sending healing thoughts to you Hugs Ann .

The state of healthcare in America is why I refuse to have kids. I'm going through it right now with out-of-pocket dental bills. Nice to see you back on RU-vid though, missed your videos!!!

Happy birthday Steph. We love you so much. Remember - while you may feel like you are alone, you are not.

My prayers are with you. You are stronger than you know! Happy birthday fellow Scorpio.

I just thought of you the other day since Scorpio Season started! Watching the video but wanted to send you love ❤️

My sister was in hospital for 18 months and having had her pituitary removed ended up having a synthetic hormone t3 introduced for her survival but it took 18 months for them to figure that out. In short her surgery was a pressurised and fast based decision and I really believe you should trust your instincts and follow your own path despite what a doctor tells you having researched all of your options holistic and otherwise. Wishing you well with your journey just have faith in your instinct.....

I had an almost identical experience. I knew almost nothing about the topic but found a TON of resources thru the fb group adrenal fatigue and thyroid care. It’s a murky topic and some providers will start u on synthroid and send u on your way. My doc also told me diet has no impact but I chose to do my own research. Asking a billion questions and wading thru all the info is the best thing u can do. Take care of yourself ❤️

I hope things improve for you, Stephanie. This year has been incredibly difficult. Be patient with yourself and your health.

It’s a crow! (Your big bird) and yes I can tell by it’s call 😂😂

This really resonated with me. I've been fighting the depression battle with therapy/medication/lifestyle changes for 5-ish years now, and had just found a balance that was working for me when the pandemic hit. Total rewind, felt like I was back to square one! I have to keep a close eye on my thyroid as well- the little bastard gland has too much control. Hearing someone I respect speak so candidly about their health is really comforting. The recognition that being in a state of constant depression and anxiety isn't normal is a really powerful tool, and I'm really glad it was mentioned! It's a good reminder to keep fighting. Thank you for sharing, I hope you have short waits, cheap prescriptions, and empathetic healthcare professionals. Good luck!!

I am so sorry you are going through so much. You are beautiful inside and out--please remember that. Be proud of yourself that you are able to be open about this; that is a major fete! Praying for you! I will say, I have no idea what is up with Keegan relationship-wise, but he's a good guy to be there for you through all this.

Gurrrrl, Hugs!!!!! 1st 👏👏👏 Keegan definitely is a blessing from God that's awesome that you can have such a good relationship after not dating anymore!!! Health issues as soon as you said your throat, I hear you!!! cancer!! I had a health issue that ended up being a growth in my throat and I was 😨 terrified went to a hospital they diagnosed me wrong went home to bed couldn't breath i was suffocating in my sleep, I woke up thank God!!! Went in the bathroom could barely open my throat, my throat had these purple dots on the back of them and I thought I'm dying its cancer, Game over!!! Thank God the people at the other Hospital knew exactly what it was and how to take care of me!! They called in a specialist numbed me and cut it out of my throat. As you're talking about all this stuff girl I've been there the memories are flooding back !!!! My body attacks itself because of the birth control I was on I almost died, the family doctor I was seeing said if your body attacks itself one more time there is NOTHING WE CAN DO TO FIX THIS!!! (Was said in front of my child that was two!😱🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ NOT TODAY SATAN I'M NOT LEAVING MY CHILD!!!) If anybody in your comments talking s*** about your health or dissing you in any way they can just keep on moving👋👣... You're not Ramblin, ITS VERY IMPORTANT TO GET ALL THAT STRESS WE FEEL/FILL ARE MINDS WITH OUT TALK GURRLLL!!!! COVID WAS CRAZY ON PEOPLE WHO SUFFER WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS🙋‍♀️ PLUS I WAS STILL TRYING TO HEAL FROM THE TRAUMA OF FINDING MY FATHER DISEASE AND TRYING TO BRING HIM BACK (R.I.P. Dad) THEN 3 WEEKS AFTER THAT HIS BABY BROTHER PASSES AWAY😳😢😱😭😭😭 life is a crazy dance!! Totally miss your videos God bless you!!

I don’t think it was an accident that I stumbled on your video today. I haven’t been watching RU-vid at all & today I opened the app and your video was first on the list. Ironically I have been going through something very similar to you. I’m actually in the process of getting long overdue bloodwork to have my thyroid tested as well.. The first few months of quarantine were literally the most stressful I have ever experienced, and I think it triggered something in me as well. Battled depression/anxiety for years and this has definitely made it worse,,fatigue, hair loss, freezing cold all the time. I can’t wait to get some answers. I’ll be praying for you in the meantime!

As a fellow thyroid warrior and senior doggie mom I’m sending you so much love and support! Thank you for this video. I empathize with you. Like you said, when it rains, it pours but I think you’re due for your rainbow 💕

That's a lot to deal with all at once, I'm so sorry to hear it. Obviously, prioritize your health and well-being. But do know that if you posted an hour long video of yourself describing paint drying, we would all tune in! If having a creative outlet, even an imperfect one, would help, consider it as a tool.

I am praying for your health mentality and physically. Your feelings are valid and it is ok to to give yourself that. I have had anxiety my entire life and I know where you are at mine was caused by my divorce and him just constantly trying to keep me down. I went through the first two years in a really bad place mentally. I went to a therapist and the one thing that he said to me that has stuck to this day is not to look at tomorrow or a week from now that I needed to bring it back to what I can do today and staying in the moment because tomorrow is another day where anything can happen and we can’t worry about today. Much love ❤️

Hope you feel better soon. Take care of yourself and I wish you all the best. You are doing all you can and that is enough, please don't be hard on yourself!

Sending you all the love, Stephanie. So sorry you’ve been put through the wringer during this crazy year

fuckin' A dude, i just luv you & your willingness to share your experience, strength & hope. you can think whatever you wish but THIS video has no doubt saved a few lives. proud of you doll....sending you xxx x's a xillion

Stress is relative and needs to dealt with. Take care of you and talk about what you want.

It's completely understandable how you're feeling after all the heavy stuff that has been dropped on you over the last several months. Take one day at a time, and most of all - keep fighting. Sending good wishes and prayers to you.

Sending you prayers and hugs! Girl you have been through a lot and you are coming out of this stronger!

Sounds like a crow. They're cool-ass birds!

It's really good to see you again. I totally understand what your feeling. I was diagnosed with Shjrogens autoimmune disorder 6 months after my dad passed away. He passed away in my arms on January 28, 2016. I have always been a strong and independent woman and supported my son on my own. I've never let people take advantage of me, I spoke my mind, I've even fought a loser of a guy because he hit my friend right in front of me, let me tell you, I kicked his ass, lol. I never thought I would be in this situation. I suffer from depression and anxiety, I have insomnia and I have fear . I am not the same energetic person I once was. I go through pain everyday. I get flare ups in both hands and both knees or wherever it decides to hit me that day. My hands hurt all the time and my finger tips are numb. It's getting worse were my hands feel like they are on fire. When I started going through this I was confused as to what is going on with my body. After many test it was confirmed that I had Shjrogens, it's part of the lupus family. I asked my Dr. how did I get this, she said you might have been going through a lot of stress or trauma. When I heard you say it ,I was like I'm not going crazy. The Dr also said that it had been dormant until probably my father's death awakened it. So you also say that yours was also dormant. I don't feel so crazy and alone now. It's a struggle everyday, I stay in bed and cry everyday. I feel the day my dad died a part of me died too. I am no longer the person I used to be, im not strong, I don't have the fight in me anymore. But you keep going and don't give up. Thank you for sharing what you've been going through, sometimes people need to hear that they are not crazy if they are going through an illness. I will keep you in my prayers and I pray your Dr's can do more for you than my Drs could do for me or other people. Take care of yourself my friend ♥️♥️

I have been going through a similar issue with my daughter. She will be 9 on the 15th and we have been dealing with it for a few years. She has a goiter in her neck. Her ultrasound came back that is not hashimoto's disease or a tumor. She has had bloodwork 2 times a year for the past few years. Her bloodwork always comes back within normal range. They say she "may" or "may not" have autoimmune thyroid disease. Which basically gives us no answers and it is so scary for us as parents. Thank you for discussing your story. I hope everything works out for you and you get the answers you need. Much love💖

personally I dont care about make up so much, I love your videos cause you are so wise and real. I can seat for an hour and being "yeah, I felt that" and also be enterteint. Keep it pushing 💜

the same way you recognize that your business being affected right now is through no fault of your own, your physical and mental health issues are also not your fault. everyone is affected in some way by covid and many others are also struggling, including myself, so please remember to be kind and compassionate to yourself and know that we care about you

Have your b12 checked for the numbness in your fingers. I literally thought I had MS from all the neurological symptoms I had from dangerously low b12. Anyway, I hope you can find a good specialist that will be nicer to you. This year has been the worst. I am so sorry you’re going through all this. It really really sucks. I’m happy to see you and thank you for sharing with us even though you don’t have to.

Happy Birthday!!! I know you don’t feel like it but you look great! I was so happy to see you posted a video! I came to watch it as soon as I could! Keep your head up girl, you got this! 💖

Today is your birthday, and I wish you all the best. I wish that you soon find yourself once more in a place of joy, recognizing the awesomeness you have. I wish you the best in your journey of healing your body and your mind, I wish you health, peace and much success in your personal and professional life. Thanks so much for your courage to talk about your struggles, I can definitely relate and it reminds me I am not alone.

You don't owe anyone anything. Your job is to take care of yourself. Feeling like you're not being productive enough and feeling ashamed comes from societal hustle culture bullshit. Not that you shouldn't want to do things. Not feeling like yourself is horrible. Thank you for sharing and for being up to filming this. For what it's worth, that feels like a good sign. You're a fighter, and sometimes fighters also have self pity parties lol.

Steph, this whole year has been a nightmare... I also felt that disappointment in the morning for the last months. So you don't need to excuse yourself for not feeling well, for having a bad time, or having serious health issues (mental of physical). The whole thyroid issue is definitely scary, on top of everything that's happened this year. And your video was very useful (it also reminded me I need to do some tests because I also have thyroid nodules and this year I haven't checked them up because of Covid and all that). Anyway, I just wanted to say you've definitely been through a lot and you really need to take care of yourself and that should be your priority. Keegan (I hope I haven't butchered his name) is right, just focus on your health and well-being, and don't put too much pressure on yourself - which I feel might be the case. It's okay to have pity parties - sometimes things are objectively bad and that's it. I teared up at the end when you said you are disappointed with yourself, not asking for help etc. - just cut yourself some slack, the year has been a mess and most of us are probably a mess as well (I know I am). So just hang in there, focus on your health, and try to be gentle with yourself (I know, easier said than done). 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

Thank you Stephanie. Thank you for sharing what’s been going on. We are with you and with support you. ♥️

My husband just had his thyroid removed and is now on synthroid. Knot was malignant but had not spread. It is unreal how many things it affects! Had the radioactive iodine and on the road to recovery. Well wishes to you!

IVE MISSED YOU SO MUCH! it is nice to hear from you again! 💜 We are going to get throught this! You are so strong! Thank you for sharing all of this and showing us that we are all having issues and we can share and support each other!

I have a lot of respect for the 'no I don't want to deal with the drama' of the social media craziness. I'm so happy for you that you were able to take the time for yourself! Such a crazy world; I look forward to whatever you share going forward 🥰

It is so crazy and interesting to see how differently people deal with things. To me, listening to your story i would wish to take your place but that's only because my life (past & current) was/is so so much worse than this but it does NOT make your story less important. I pray that you make a recovery and find the peace you need. I will pray for you every day. Get better soon and never feel guilty for taking time off or feel like you have to justify why you have been gone. The most important thing is your health and well-being. Much love. ❤

It is a shame that in a rich and developed country like US you cannot have free medical care. In Italy you could have walked in any public hospital and they would take care of you. I have been through medical issue myself and I think I can understand your feelings and fears. I cannot imagine what would be like having to worry about the cost of the care on top on the health worries. I can only say that one day all this will be a memory and that you will be even stronger. Hugs and stay strong

Wishing you nothing but the best Stephanie. 🍃🍁🍃

Thank you for that. How you are feeling mentally right now is how I've felt for years, but haven't been able to describe it. It's just feels impossible.. Thank you for giving me some words to use for my situation. Sending you thoughts for a good outcome, for ALL you are struggling with. 💏 Miss you & your videos a ton!

You are not alone!!! I missed you!!!

I can fully understand you ... i work from home and it is starting to be to much already as i am in a group of people that are high risk from infections and have to stay safe ... i hope you will be better and life gets better for you :-)

My daughter is medically fragile with so many issues and over 120 appointments a year. The more doctors I meet the more I've realized most do not try to further their education, are very behind in medical research and require us to do our own research and tell them what we need.

Stephanie!! I have missed you so much! I’m so sorry to hear about all that you have been going through. I hope that things will get better and I will keep you in my prayers. 🤎

I’m so glad your back Stephanie I’ve missed you .. my mum has rhurmotoid and the scariest part is figuring out what is going on ! Your not alone the pain is real but know it will pass xoxo lots of love and great big hugs xx

🙏 Sending you so much love and positivity! The one thing you can do is film so yesss please post that amazon video!

So much love to you! Take care of yourself & I know I and a lot of other ppl on here will be here when you’re ready to come back. I hope your path to health and normalcy is a relatively quick one. Saying a prayer for ya!

IM IN THE SAME BOAT WITH BENZOS.. I am 22 and I am perscribed the same dose I am freaking out and in the process of trying to taper off bc it really does make you so sick... i'm terrified but its nice to know Im not alone.

I have been feeling the same about the state of the world. I feel purposeless too we all love you but take time for yourself.

I'm no quitter either❤️. I understand how you feel when you see your reflection, and with the helplessness felt because my body is attacking itself. I have some good days and some bad days, especially when I deal with the stress triggers, those just wipe me out for a few days and I'm not lazy, but it feels like I am. Now a days it seems that many of us who performed well in stressful day to day life have been confronted with our bodies unwillingness to continue on that path even if mentally we were fine doing so, as I'm finding more and more people out there with these health issues. I can't wrap my head around my body being in "control" of how I live on a day to day and it's taking a toll because I cannot comprehend that this little organ has changed who I thought I was supposed be. It's not like a car ran over my foot and the trauma is visible, it's been years upon years of self neglect, the go go go and putting others before me that caught up with me in what I thought were going to be my prime years, as we are about the same age, even though I feel twice that. So, now in a way it feels like I'm starting over and being selfish for putting myself first and cutting out what doesn't serve me and saying no to many things and people who btw don't even bother to reach out and care 🤦🏻‍♀️ but I'm grateful for the few that do. Anyway I've done enough rambling, just know there are many of us who understand you and it's perfectly fine that you prioritize your health above all else. Thank you for sharing I personally appreciate this. Wishing you the best❤️.

Thank you so much for sharing all this with us. Very happy to see you're back and feeling better and looking nice. Courage to all of us in these strange scary times. Hugs from Paris xoxo

Oh, how I’ve missed you Stef!!! It feels so weird saying that to someone I’ve only seen ONE time at Golden Gate park lol! But it’s true! I clicked on the video as soon as I got the notification. My husband was sitting next to me when I told him you’d uploaded a new vid and he said, “Stephanie Nicole? My RU-vid crush?!” LMAO You are so so so appreciated girl.

Hope you’re doing ok. You’ve been missed here. Well done for being brave and sharing. This will help others x

I can relate so much. Thank you for sharing this. Sometimes people think that those who are beautiful, smart and successful have it all pink and glitters in their life. No question you are smart and very strong. Very soon you will go kicking asses again 😊 sending you lots of love and healing thoughts. For now, may I advise you, take some short courses (there are all sorts of free ones) it will take your mind out of bad situation you are temporarily in, you will learn something new and it will give sense of achievement when you compete it (some are really short ones). Take care of yourself xx

Thank you for sharing!! I am keeping you in my prayers and good thoughts!! I am so glad you are here. Everything will be able to be whole again. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ You are beautiful! You are valuable! You are enough! Just as you are!! Your spirit and kindness shows through!! We are all here to love you through this!!!

💕💕 Welcome back! Stephanie..... where did you get your necklaces?? Do you have an affiliate link??

Sending prayers and love, you are a strong person and will overcome this.

I developed hashimotos immediately after weaning my first baby from breastfeeding. I had no idea what was wrong with me. I’m a runner and suddenly I put on like 10 pounds in one month. My thyroid blew up also, multiple nodules on one side “like a cluster of grapes” they said, and one large nodule on the other. I’ve had 3 separate biopsies (blah). All benign thankfully. The first time they checked my TPO antibodies they were 360 and the last time I had them checked they were over 1,000. Synthroid has helped a lot actually. I was getting horrible heart palpitations, and constantly feeling like I couldn’t breathe also! Miserable. I totally feel you and I’m so sorry you’re experiencing this also. It’s amazing how much your thyroid effects your brain and anxiety levels!! I thought I was going insane!!

First thought when I started watching, dand she looks great, healthy...wonder what’s she been up to? So I’m so surprised you’ve been thru so much and look so good. Keep going forward and try to see the light, you’re a survivor❣️

I hope you’re feeling better! I have also been going through weird things like lip swelling, my entire face swelled and I thought I was having allergies. I have also been having issues sleeping. When I went to the doctor they ruled out all allergies and sent me for blood work and said it may be a auto immune disease that has been dormant all these yours. I am also frustrated and scared. I have been a fan for years please keep us updated!! Praying for you!

You don’t have to apologize for suffering just because other people are suffering. You can feel compassion for the pain of others and also feel compassion for yourself and your own pain. How you feel is valid, and taking care of yourself is important. I’m praying you have a positive breakthrough soon 💚

Here's the thing about 2020: self preservation is key. Just about everyone I know has encountered at least one major traumatic event, myself included. If you decide to not post a video again for a year, it's fine sis. Take care of yourself. I quit a whole job this year (as a physician coincidentally) to take time and refresh my mind and spirit. Secondly, as a doc, make sure they are checking FREE T4 levels. Regular T4 can be erroneous because it's more to do with protein binding than actual thyroid function. Also, while there's no evidence supporting plant-based diet directly, I always tell patients to try anyway. People ofren have great results with it, including in their moods. Wishing all the best for you 💜

Saying you can’t be sad because others have it worse, is like saying you can’t be happy because others have it better😊 take care of yourself!

PS - your fans and followers will be here when you’re ready. Do not worry about us!!

Nurse for 20 plus years here. You are so well educated and informed about your situation. This is by far the most transparent youtube video I have ever watched. You are articulate, strong and such a fighter. You got this girl. Remember all those things you were talking about are circumstantial and will come and go. Your health is the most important thing in the World

I clicked on this AS SOON AS I got the notification. I’ve missed you. ♥️

Girl, next time monetize this and put a bunch of ads in it. We’ll happily watch to support you.

That’s a crow.It’s a warning call.That one is a lookout.If any of the other crows on the ground were to be injured or killed while it’s on watch the others will gang up and beat the shit out of it.Its job is that important.

That bird is rejoicing you're back, too.

“Brevity is not one of my strengths” 😂 that’s why we love you

" My mind...It's not possible that anyone cares because I feel like the person they got to know doesn't exist anymore." So much of what you said is the voice of Chronic Illness, Autoimmune Disease...the invisible diseases....the diseases or syndromes that make people say "You sure do look good for such a sick person." Stephanie I'm so sorry you're trying to deal with the unknown, it sucks so badly. I have an idea, how about using your platform to educate people about "invisible illnesses"? Continue to talk about your feelings and how difficult it is when friends "just don't get it". You're a wonderful speaker, use what you have and make it golden.

I'm usually a silent viewer. I'm so touched by how open and honest you're telling your life update. I really hope you're doing okay and get better soon. Nevermind about filming. You need to focus on your health and yourself. 💜

“I’m disappointed when I wake up.” Heard. Heard. Heard. Your job for the last few months has been to not die and to not give up. And you’ve succeeded. It’s no small thing to fight through the medical system and advocate for yourself. It’s exhausting and daunting and terrifying to live in that space of not knowing and the omnipresent anxiety that comes with it. And then to absorb every frustration that would be hard normally but compounds exponentially when under this kind of strain. It doesn’t feel like you’re a badass. But you are. It’s taking a lot of effort, and I’m proud of you. For whatever the fuck that’s worth.

That's a crow. it sounds like he's wants to be your co-host lmao

Thyroid stuff messes with every system in your body. To go though it for the first time in the midst of losing your sense of home, having your life in storage, employment unrest and a pandemic is huge! Take care of yourself. Do what needs doing to get to tomorrow; then do it again and again. Hugs and good thoughts.

Who talks sht about Stephanie Nicole? She is literally like the single only RU-vidr who isn’t straight pure drama. I don’t even think I’ve ever even heard one single comment about her in something negative or anything like that. Hope you’re doing well Stephanie. It’s nice to see you !! Take care xo

Says a lot about the state of the world that everyone feels the need to preface personal updates with "sorry for talking about myself" You do you boo. Stay strong and keep doing right by yourself. Edited to add, "privileged" or not, holy sh t girl you have been THROUGH it. And without health insurance. Im so sorry you had to deal with all this. Blessings to you 😘

That bird wanted some air time. He had lots to say.

Sounds like you’ve been dealing with a lot over the past the past five months... Not usually sure what’s the “correct” thing to say in circumstances like this, so I’m going to say this; be gentle with yourself... You are doing the best you can. Also, to the persons who have disliked this vid, may God bless you and your family 🍀...

I have Graves’ disease, and in the beginning I felt so hopeless/helpless. The doctor that treated me had a horrible bedside manner, and I had no one by my side.. I was in my early 20’s. I’m 34 now. I relate so much to everything you said.. even now with the anxiety and depression. I just want you to know that I admire you so very much. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. It’s crazy that you posted because I was just thinking about you a couple days ago. Funny how that happens. Love you, girl ❤️

I’m married to a physician. I also have an auto immune disorder that would’ve killed me last year if not for an amazing doctor who listened to me. I have seen specialist who are absolutely against “restrictive diets.” It seems they feel like you can’t be on a restrictive diet AND still have medical care. It’s not helpful to have that viewpoint, but here’s what I can tell you. I have really loved the low fodmap diet. Key word is low not none. The doctor who saved my life introduced it to me. I will also have to be on meds for the rest of my life, but the combo of both has given me a better chance at avoiding a flare-up. My husband has seen how this diet has helped and is now a believer. It absolutely doesn’t hurt to eat better, but it DOES hurt when a physician isn’t willing to discuss alternative solutions (injunction with their care). I wish more docs referred patients to dietitians who specialize in these disorders. I think “diet” just triggers something in some physicians, when in reality it’s just a way of fueling your body. Luckily you’re a strong woman who knows how to stand up for yourself and I’m so glad you’re on your way to healing. You’ll get there I promise. It’s a major process and will take time. I wish you so much luck. Certain diets absolutely are worth trying and everyone’s body is different so hopefully you can find one that works for you!

Hey Stef, it’s Sarah from high school. I have my own therapy practice in MA. Sorry to hear about all of this. The thyroid stuff can be so connected to the mental health symptoms so hopefully you can find someone who understands both. Thyroid issues run in my family (I managed so far to escape it) so it is never an easy road. Take care of yourself

As an Australian the U.S. health system gives me anxiety and it doesn’t even affect me. Hope everything works out for you Stephanie, thank you for being so open. I have been meaning to get my Thyroid tested for Hypothyroidism for awhile and this has made me move my ass and get it done.

You said the words that I couldn’t find to express how I’ve been feeling since June, I lost my job, health not going great, boyfriend cheated on me and found out he has a daughter as a result, I’m 42 yo and live in a country that has not many opportunities, specially for women around my age, worried about my 65+ parents, just like you said, sometimes I don’t want to wake up 😞 I don’t know when this is going to end and I don’t know how much longer I can endure this, so my heart goes out to you Stephanie, we’re going through similar things in life, I felt your pain and your words were my own.