Today we are talking to Daria Sitnikova, the “Iron Lady”. She got this nickname not only because of the titanium structure in her spine but also because of her incredible resilience and fortitude. Dasha showed social initiative and created a platform to unite silent people out of fear of being judged for not meeting generally accepted standards.
Hello, Dasha! Thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Please tell us why you decided to share your story.
Hello! I need to speak openly about my path. I had been hiding my problems for a long time, afraid of condemnation and misunderstanding. But at some point, I realized that openness is not a weakness but a huge strength. If my story can motivate at least one person, then all this was not in vain.
This is truly inspiring. How did your journey begin?
I was born in Stavropol to a small family. After school, I entered a medical college and became a cosmetologist. Later, I moved to Moscow, where I worked in large companies related to pharmaceuticals and cosmetology. One day, I decided to follow the example of my mother, who is a sewing technologist, and I opened my studio and achieved success. A few years later, I had a large sewing production facility. I managed a team of 300 people.
This was an important stage in your life. But, as I understand, more difficult trials awaited you ahead.
Yes, the turning point was moving to the USA. It was an incredibly difficult period, and I gained 75 kilograms.
At some point, it seemed to me that I had ceased to be myself. This period stirred up some childhood fears. Fears of rejection, insecurity, apathy, isolation, and unwillingness to do anything appeared I did not want to look at myself in the mirror.
And I realized that I had to change something.
How did you cope with this?
I worked with my inner state, and treatment with the medication Mounjaro, prescribed by the doctor according to the indications, also helped me.
Raul Megrelishvili, my husband, has always supported me.
We met in Moscow, but he is originally from Tbilisi. His values have always inspired me, his attitude to life and his ability to support me in difficult times.
He always tells me everything will be fine with me, and I’m starting to believe it.
Was his support key for you?
Absolutely. He taught me to accept myself. Thanks to him, I fell in love with Georgian cuisine, and now I dream of the moment when he will open a Georgian restaurant in Los Angeles.
That sounds great. But I know you’ve been through more difficult challenges. Tell me, please, about your spinal surgery.
As a child, I had a severe curvature of the spine – it deviated by 140 degrees. At 15, I had to undergo a very complex operation on the spine with the installation of a metal structure.
Doctors warned me that I could remain disabled, but I begged them to do it because I could no longer be invisible to my classmates. Luckily, I did not face bullying, but the kids simply ignored me.
I was bedridden for six months, learning to walk again. I wore a corset. I couldn’t sit for six months. I could only move around lying down in a taxi. It was as if my whole life had started anew.
This metal structure has been with me for life. I still can’t go through magnetic frames at airports or do complex physical exercises.
It becomes clear why you are called the “Iron Lady.” How do you feel about this nickname?
I accepted it. It reminds me that even the most difficult challenges make us stronger.
You mentioned that after moving, you started working on your inner state. How did that happen?
Yes, I started practicing regression to deal with my fears and experiences. It was a long process, but I learned to accept myself and my story.
Do you want to share this experience with others now?
That’s right. I want to create a platform where people can tell their stories without fear of judgment. I suggest using Instagram and a special hashtag, #myironstory, to unite those facing body image and self-perception issues.
How do you see this community?
It will be a place of support and inspiration. I believe that sharing our difficulties frees us from the burden. We will support, share our experiences, and inspire others to be open and honest.
Your story is truly inspiring. Is there anyone else who has had a big influence on you?
Of course, it’s my mom. She raised me alone, without a father, and from childhood, she did not allow me to feel disabled and said: “You are the same as everyone else. You can do anything you want.” This became my inner guide.
What advice would you give to people afraid to start their journey of change?
Stop hiding behind fears. Our shortcomings are our strength. We don’t have to be perfect. Just take the first step: talk about your difficulties. You’ll be surprised how many people are ready to support you.
Dasha, thank you for your sincerity.
Thank you! I hope my story will help someone believe in themselves and take the first step towards change.
Published by Joseph T.
