This article originally appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of On The Level.
When medical professionals repeatedly told Cherika that her symptoms were “just pregnancy-related,” she knew something deeper was happening.
As a family nurse practitioner herself, she understood her body was sending signals that couldn’t be dismissed as typical maternal experiences.
Unexplained and Undiagnosed
Her journey began subtly – unexpected dizziness, persistent nausea, and an overwhelming sense of motion sickness that defied conventional explanations. What started as seemingly normal pregnancy symptoms evolved into a complex vestibular challenge that would test her resilience, professional identity, and personal strength.
During her pregnancy, Cherika experienced debilitating episodes of dizziness. Around 25 weeks, she had a particularly alarming incident where she felt she might pass out while driving. The experience was so intense that she was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance – a moment that dramatically increased her anxiety and marked a turning point in her health journey.
Medical professionals ran numerous tests – CT scans, EKGs, and comprehensive blood work – but found nothing conclusive. They suggested dehydration and recommended adding salt to her diet. But Cherika knew something more significant was happening.
Losing Herself
Her daily life transformed dramatically. The once-outgoing professional who enjoyed traveling and spontaneity became someone who meticulously calculated every movement. Driving became a source of extreme anxiety.
learning to cope
She developed coping mechanisms like listening to anxiety podcasts, practicing deep breathing, and often pulling over to the side of the road when symptoms became overwhelming.
“I was just existing, but surviving at the same time,” Cherika recalls.
FINALLY FINDING HELP
Her symptoms persisted even after childbirth, leading her to seek answers independently.
Her breakthrough came through an unexpected source – a colleague who shared similar experiences and recommended a specialist.
Dr. Habib Rizk finally diagnosed Cherika with vestibular migraines – a condition with no cure, but symptoms that are possible to manage. While the diagnosis was initially devastating, it provided Cherika with a framework to understand her experience.
The Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) played a crucial role in her journey. Through VeDA’s resources, Cherika found:
- Comprehensive information about vestibular disorders
- Community support from others experiencing similar challenges
- Educational materials to help her understand her condition
- Strategies for managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life
a holistic approach
Cherika’s approach to managing her condition became holistic. She learned to:
- Pace herself and recognize her body’s limits
- Track barometric pressure changes that trigger symptoms
- Use specialized migraine glasses to manage visual stimuli
- Communicate her needs at work and home
- Practice self-compassion during challenging days
Her six-year-old son became an unexpected ally, showing empathy for her condition and offering support during challenging moments.
Her workplace provided flexibility, allowing her to work virtually when symptoms were intense.
“Accepting it has helped me manage my symptoms better,” Cherika shares. “I realized my body had gotten me through the unknown, and we survived.”
Her story is more than just a medical narrative—it’s a testament to human resilience. She evolved from feeling defeated by her condition to becoming an advocate for herself and others facing similar challenges.
Where is Cherika Today?
Today, Cherika continues to work full-time, parent her child, and manage her vestibular condition. She has learned to listen to her body, adapt her lifestyle, and find meaning in her experience.
Her story reminds us that with proper support, education, and medical understanding, individuals can not only survive but also thrive.
“Some days I’m great and can do whatever,” she says. “Other days, I do the bare minimum. But every day is a learning process. Healing isn’t about being symptom-free, it’s about finding strength in the journey and showing my son that resilience and hope can carry us through.”
HOW YOU HELPED CHERIKA
Cherika’s journey illustrates the critical importance of your contributions to VeDA. Each donation represents hope for people like Cherika.
By funding research, providing resources, and creating community, you’re helping individuals like Cherika transform medical challenges into stories of empowerment.
