In this deeply moving episode of the Bible Chat Podcast, Nicole shares her story from a passionate 7-year-old soccer player to a college athlete facing the devastating diagnosis of lupus during her senior year. Nicole's story takes us through unimaginable valleys: severe pulmonary hypertension, right heart failure, and ultimately a life-saving double lung transplant in 2008.

We explore the emotional weight of receiving the gift of life (and the paradox of gratitude mixed with survivor’s guilt), the unwavering support of her husband Josh, post-transplant challenges including PTSD, chronic rejection, and the breathtaking miracle of adopting her son Noah amid COVID-19 uncertainties.

Today, Nicole thrives with 40% lung function, deadlifting 205 lbs at 110 lbs bodyweight, and runs her own business, Mindful Fitness with Nicole, helping others strengthen body, mind, and soul.

This episode reminds us: nothing is impossible with God. If you're facing chronic illness, waiting on a transplant, walking through grief, or simply needing hope, Nicole's journey will inspire you.

00:00 Welcome to the Bible Chat Podcast

00:23 Nicole’s Early Love for Soccer

01:10 College Soccer Glory & First Warning Signs

03:21 Pushing Through Symptoms & Seeking Answers

05:49 The Devastating Lupus Diagnosis

08:35 Navigating Life & Love with Lupus

10:17 Heart Failure & the Fight for Treatment

12:19 The Long Road to Transplantation

18:40 Choosing Stanford & Facing the Unknown

22:05 Waiting, Hope, and Heartbreak in California

34:54 Renewed Hope & Settling In

35:50 The Transplant Call & Emotional Weight

36:12 The Paradox of Receiving Life

37:02 Post-Transplant Recovery & PTSD

38:30 Mindset, Faith, and What Not to Say

40:57 Support, Independence, and Toxic Positivity

47:39 Chronic Rejection & Life Changes

53:26 The Unexpected Path to Adoption

59:21 Welcoming Precious Noah

01:01:46 Living with Gratitude, Strength, and Purpose

01:05:36 Final Reflections & Legacy

If this story touched your heart, please like, comment your biggest takeaway, subscribe, and share with someone who needs hope today. God is still performing miracles!

The Bible Chat Podcast

Instagram: @biblechatpodcast

Website: thebiblechat.com/podcas

Follow Nicole at @mindfulfitnesswithnicole

Download the Bible Chat app for guided Scripture, prayers, and more: thebiblechat.com/app