In this conversation, Tina Marie Medlin opens up about 30+ years with Crohn’s disease, drug reactions, major surgeries (including an ostomy), and the spiritual warfare of not giving up—like enduring six days with an NG tube and a terrifying arterial bleed she faced fully awake. Through it all, Tina discovered a calling: Warrior Braids Ministry, personalized “Warrior Boxes,” and a monthly faith-based support group that makes sure no one walks the chronic-illness road alone. We talk about pacing life with limited energy, the sting of “you look good,” why transparency matters, and how community becomes a vessel for hope. If you’re in a valley, Tina’s story offers practical compassion and a steady reminder: God still has work for you here.

⏱️ Highlights:

• From denial in her 20s to drug-induced lupus and multiple biologics that failed


• Ostomy surgery and living with ongoing complications


• “Why I still push myself”—serving when you know it’ll cost spoons


• The “mustard seed” moment: hearing God’s whisper to start a ministry


• Warrior Boxes: personalized care for the newly diagnosed or struggling


• Christ & Coffee Time: creative merch that funds ministry work


• The hardest truths: appearance vs. reality, and not being defined only by illness


• Support systems through different seasons: kids, spouse, parents, and church friends


• That brutal NG-tube week and the awake arterial-clamp surgery—choosing not to give up


• What “warrior” means now: honesty, community, and never quitting

 

🗣️ Memorable Quotes:

• “If my eyes opened this morning, God still has work for me to do.” —Tina


• “A warrior isn’t unbreakable; a warrior is honest. Your story can be someone else’s guide.” —Tina


• “He didn’t give me Crohn’s, but He gave purpose to my having it.” —Tina


• “I push because it’s not about me—it’s about what God asked me to do.” —Tina

🛠️ Tools, Resources & Mentions:

• Warrior Braids Ministry: warriorbraidsministry.org


• Instagram: @warriorbraidsministry


• Christ & Coffee Time (proceeds fund ministry projects & Warrior Boxes)

 

🧭 Reflection / Journal Prompt:
Where have you felt that quiet “mustard seed” nudge in your own valley? What one small step could you take this week to follow it?

 

🪴 One Tiny Step for the Week:
List three people who help you feel less alone (or three you’d like to know better). Send one text today—ask for prayer, a check-in, or a coffee on Zoom.

 

🙋‍♀️ Guest Info:

• Name: Tina Marie Medlin


• Bio: Founder of Warrior Braids Ministry, Tina advocates for women living with chronic illness through personalized Warrior Boxes, a monthly faith-based support group, and creative merch that funds care initiatives.


• Links: warriorbraidsministry.org | Instagram @warriorbraidsministry

Want gentle, honest support every week? Join The Unseen Sisterhood—your dose of encouragement for life and faith with chronic illness. Subscribe to the newsletter

 

🎬 Credits:
Host: April Aramanda
Guest: Tina Marie Medlin
Editing & Production: April Aramanda
Music: “The Invisible Illness Club” theme
Show Notes & Assets: Cherry (ChatGPT)
© The Invisible Illness Club