My name is Chyna McGarity. I’m a mother, a survivor of domestic violence, and a woman who has lived her life believing in faith, resilience, and the power of helping others. For more than 40 years, I’ve poured myself into uplifting people — as an advocate, author, transformation coach, Board Certified Christian Counselor, and plus-size model. I’ve spent my life encouraging others to see beauty in their brokenness and strength in their struggle.

But today, I’m learning what it means to stand on the other side of the story.

One thing I’ve learned is this: you can’t judge a book by its cover. Sometimes you have to open the book to understand the chapters inside, because appearances don’t tell the whole story. I don’t look like what I’m going through. I don’t look like someone whose kidneys are failing. I don’t look like someone fighting for their life every single day. And that’s intentional — I choose to smile, to show joy, and to keep living with purpose.

People often tell me, “But you don’t look sick.” And I understand why they say it. I carry myself with grace because I refuse to let illness steal who I am. My doctors look at my chart, then look at me, and they’re stunned — because what’s on paper doesn’t match what they see in front of them. What you see is faith. What you feel is hope. What you don’t see are the long nights, the fatigue, the pain, the prayers I whisper when no one is watching.

I’m not sharing this for sympathy. I’m sharing it to offer hope. I want others living with chronic illness to know you can still shine and keep living — even when life looks different than you expected.

Now, I’m in a place where I need help — something that has never been easy for me to say. I urgently need a kidney transplant. My life literally depends on it. And I’m believing that God will send the right person — a hero with a heart big enough to save a life.

This is not just about me. It’s about faith, community, and the willingness to stand with someone when it matters most. Whether you consider becoming a donor, share my story, pray for me, or simply pass this message along — it matters. Every act of love brings me closer to the miracle I’m praying for.

Yes, I smile. Yes, I shine. But I am also asking for help — believing that somewhere, someone will say yes, and together we will turn hope into a future.