My Story

Hi, I’m Millie, an advocate, speaker, writer, and creator living with complex chronic illnesses. After years of trying to hide my struggles, I now use my voice to help others feel seen, supported, and hopeful. What began as a personal outlet has grown into a space for community, connection, and real-life tools, encouraging everyone to choose happiness, together.

My Story

Before all of this, I was a full-time dancer. I trained professionally and lived for movement, performance, and pushing my limits. But life changed dramatically after a series of hospital admissions, surgeries, and a long road to diagnosis. I live with conditions including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, gastroparesis, intestinal dysfunction, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, to name a few.

Over the years, I’ve experienced sepsis, severe malnutrition, feeding tubes, intensive care and prolonged hospital stays. During difficult times, I can’t get out of bed without collapsing, and yet here I am, finding new ways to live a meaningful, connected, and fulfilling life.

For a long time, I felt like I had to hide, to prove I was “normal enough.” Now, I’ve found strength in being open. I want others to know that you can live a full life, even with complex medical conditions.

Where I am now

I created milliebridger.com to share my experiences and offer support to others living with chronic illness. Here, you'll find a growing community support group, regular blog posts and product reviews, and a monthly newsletter full of helpful tools and gentle encouragement.

I'm proud to work as a public speaker, campaigner, and inclusive content creator. I collaborate with brands that truly care about accessibility and representation, and I write and speak about topics including patient advocacy, resilience, mental health, and navigating life with long-term conditions.

I'm currently represented by Zebedee, an inclusive talent agency championing authentic representation in media. I also sit on the board of Access-Air-Bility as a Non-Executive Director, working to make air travel safer and more accessible for disabled passengers.

Therapy with Ralph

Ralph, my little long-haired dachshund, is a certified therapy dog with Pets As Therapy, the UK’s leading pet therapy charity. Together, we visit children’s hospices, care homes, and SEN schools, bringing joy, calm and connection to people who need it most.

I first experienced the comfort of a therapy dog during one of my own hospital stays, and I now get to pass that feeling forward through Ralph. It’s one of the most meaningful parts of my advocacy work.