High Schooler with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome Goes Viral for Talking About How the Rare Condition Affects Her Life (Exclusive)

Living with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: A High Schooler’s Story

Tasha Lawson, a high school student, has been living with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) since being diagnosed in the fall of 2024. This rare condition causes cycles of severe nausea, vomiting, and exhaustion, lasting from a few hours to several days. Initially, Tasha and her mother thought her stomach issues were due to a dairy sensitivity or stress. However, a particularly severe episode during a visit to her grandmother in Florida prompted further investigation, leading to her diagnosis.

After the diagnosis, Tasha took to TikTok to share her story. Her video went viral, garnering over 1 million views and 2,500 comments. Despite initially keeping her TikTok activity a secret from her parents, Tasha eventually confessed, feeling proud of using her voice to raise awareness about CVS. She acknowledges the unwavering support of her parents throughout her journey with the condition.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome is characterised by sudden, repeated episodes of severe nausea and vomiting that occur in four phases: prodrome, vomiting, recovery, and well phases. Triggers for these episodes can include stress, anxiety, physical exhaustion, fasting, and intense emotions. Although Tasha takes daily medication to manage the condition, along with anti-nausea and anti-anxiety medication on an as-needed basis, the effectiveness of the treatment varies.

Tasha’s episodes typically start with a debilitating stomachache, progressing to bouts of vomiting with varying intervals. These episodes can last from a few hours to days, affecting her daily life and school attendance. Despite the challenges, Tasha finds comfort in the support she receives from her school and friends, who help her navigate the impact of CVS on her academic and social life.

Sharing her story on TikTok not only helped Tasha connect with others living with CVS but also empowered her to be a source of support and education for those facing similar challenges. The positive response from viewers reinforced the importance of raising awareness about invisible illnesses like CVS and fostering a sense of community among those affected.

Living with CVS has been a journey of resilience and self-discovery for Tasha, who continues to navigate the ups and downs of managing her condition while striving to lead a fulfilling life as a high school student. By sharing her story, she hopes to shed light on the experiences of others living with invisible illnesses and promote understanding and empathy within the broader community.

Tasha’s courage and determination serve as an inspiration to those facing health challenges, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. Through her advocacy and openness about living with CVS, she is breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with chronic conditions.