At ALEX AND ANI, we often receive letters from fans expressing their gratitude for creating meaningful, symbolic products. Each one is truly moving and it’s an honor to touch so many lives.
One such fan, Jessica Rodriguez, recently shared her inspiring story with us. Despite suffering from a longtime illness, her collection reminds her to remain positive and look on the bright side.
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My name is Jessica Rodriguez, I’m 30 years old, and I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis when I was 16. Being diagnosed at such a young age proved to be difficult as I was often out of school receiving therapy. I managed to graduate and moved to Florida to start fresh only to return home as my condition worsened.
I didn’t think love was in the cards for me until I met my soulmate at 21 and had a child, a son, despite being told it was not possible. I was doing well for a while but began to relapse again. I was receiving treatments through all of this but nothing was working. I was about to begin my last resort, chemotherapy, when I found out I was pregnant again. We knew it was a gift because chemo would make me unable to conceive. Three months after I gave birth to my daughter, I began chemo. Although it makes me sick, weak, and caused my hair to fall out, I keep smiling and push forward. I am blessed to have an amazing husband and supportive family who have been by side through it all.
Your products mean so much to me and give me hope and inspiration to keep going. I have two necklaces, Unexpected Miracles and the Guardian of Strength, and several bangles, such as the PATH OF LIFE and Cherub. Thank you for helping me to remember to see the bright side, even on the worst of days, and serving as a symbol of hope and love.
