Your turn to be Uncovered

Uncovered: An HS Warrior Story is a space dedicated to sharing the real, raw experiences of people living with HS. This is an ongoing series, and we are honored to tell your story. My goal is for this space to become a permanent home for our collective voices, a place where people come to feel seen, educated, and less alone. Too often, we feel invisible, exhausted, or dismissed. I want readers to see your words and think: “Finally, someone gets it.” 

HOW THE SERIES WORKS 

One warrior story will be featured weekly on the Soulajman.life blog and highlighted across social media. Your story can be emotional, educational, funny, vulnerable, or a mix of everything. Suggested length is 300–1200 words (more won't hurt).

STORY CATEGORIES & PROMPTS 

Aside from sharing your name (nickname ok to stay anonymous) and how long you’ve lived with HS, you are free to write as you see fit. Choose one category or blend several together. Pick the 2 or 3 prompts that "spark" something in you when you first read them.

The Foundations: Journey & Discovery

Newly Diagnosed Stories: When did you first realize something wasn’t “normal”? How long did it take between your first symptoms and a diagnosis? What was your biggest fear then, and what would you say to someone newly diagnosed today?

Diagnosis Journey: Describe that "aha" moment when things finally clicked was it a specific doctor, your own research, or a gut feeling?

The Holistic Path: What was the first "mindful shift" or herbal ritual that made you feel like you were reclaiming your power? What does "healing" mean to you personally?

The Inner World: Mental & Spiritual

Mental Health & HS: How do you protect your peace on "flare days"? What has HS taken from you, and conversely, what has it forced you to rediscover about yourself?

Body Image & Confidence: In a world obsessed with "flawless" skin, how have you redefined beauty? What is one thing you have reclaimed despite living with HS?

Faith & Spirituality: How has your relationship with a higher power or spiritual practice influenced how you view your body’s resilience?

Relationships & Society

Dating & Intimacy: How do you approach the "HS conversation" with a partner? How has HS affected your confidence or your view of true connection?

Parenting with HS: How do you balance the physical demands of parenting with self-care? What do you hope your children learn from watching your strength?

Workplace & School: How do you advocate for your needs in professional or academic spaces without losing your sense of self?

Identity & Representation

BIPOC Experiences: How has your cultural identity or background shaped your experience with medical care?

Men Living with HS: Men often face a unique silence regarding skin health. What is one thing you want other men to know?

Physicality & Navigation

Medical & Surgical Journeys: If you’ve navigated surgeries or clinical procedures, what helped you keep going during those difficult moments?

Fitness & Movement: How have you adapted physical activity to honor your body’s limits while staying active?

Reflection & Advocacy

“What I Wish People Understood”: What is the biggest thing people misunderstand about HS? If you could explain our reality to the world, what one truth would you share?

Open Category: Share a lesson, a routine, or a moment that doesn't fit a box but feels alive in your heart.

PHOTOS & PRIVACY 

Photos are optional but very much welcome! When you send your story, please include:

• The name you’d like displayed (or let me know if you prefer to be Anonymous).
• Your social handle (if you’d like to be tagged).
• Photo Consent: Let me know if your photos can be shared on the blog and social media.

As someone living with HS myself, this project is close to my heart. I know how healing it is when we stop suffering in silence and start speaking openly. Even in pain, we are still worthy of softness, visibility, and community. Thank you for trusting me with your story. Send your written story to info@soulajman.life with the title A Warrior Story in the subject line.