How I Found God and True Identity Through a Herpes Diagnosis

Life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths, often shaking us to our core before we find the strength to rise again. For Lindsey Ellyn, that moment came with a herpes diagnosis—something she never saw coming but ultimately became the wake-up call she needed. In this episode of Life with Herpes, hosted by Alexandra Harbushka, Lindsey shares her deeply personal journey of battling stigma, facing despair, and ultimately discovering mercy in God.

Confronting the Stigma and the Darkest Moments

Receiving a herpes diagnosis is never easy. Society places a heavy stigma on sexually transmitted infections, often making those diagnosed feel isolated, ashamed, and even unworthy of love. For Lindsey, the weight of this stigma became unbearable. She found herself spiraling into a deep depression, questioning her worth and purpose. She even contemplated ending her own life, convinced that her diagnosis defined her and that there was no way forward.

But in her darkest moment, something profound happened. Instead of allowing the shame to consume her, she reached out—first in desperation and then in faith. It was in this moment of surrender that she found mercy in God.

Finding Mercy and Purpose in Christ

Lindsey describes how, through prayer and reflection, she realized that this diagnosis was not a punishment but a redirection. She had been living a life that wasn’t aligned with her true purpose. Her choices, her relationships, and her priorities had led her down a path that was not meant for her. The herpes diagnosis became a pivotal moment—one that forced her to stop, reflect, and ultimately embrace a new way of living.

Through faith, Lindsey began to see that she was still whole, still loved, and still worthy. She found solace in scripture and the unwavering love of Christ, which helped her release the shame she had been carrying. Instead of seeing herpes as a burden, she started to view it as a wake-up call, a lesson in self-worth, and an opportunity to rebuild her life with intention and grace.

Embracing Her Story and Helping Others

Determined not to let stigma define her, Lindsey turned her pain into purpose. She wrote The Shame Game, a book that dives deep into her experience with herpes, shame, and faith. She uses her story to inspire others, showing them that a diagnosis does not determine their worth or future.

Lindsey now speaks openly about her journey, encouraging others to break free from societal stigma and embrace self-love and faith. She reminds us that we are not our mistakes, our diagnoses, or the opinions of others. Instead, we are defined by how we choose to move forward, how we grow, and how we trust in a greater plan for our lives.

Listen to Lindsey’s Story

If you’ve ever felt lost, ashamed, or unworthy, Lindsey’s story will remind you that there is always hope. Tune in to this powerful episode of Life with Herpes to hear Lindsey’s full journey—from despair to redemption—and how she found her true identity through faith.

🎧 Listen now and be inspired to embrace your own story with courage and grace!

Buy The Shame Game on Amazon

Connect with Lindsey and check her website

https://www.lindseyellyn.com/