Today we’d like to introduce you to Deauna Parker.
Hi Deauna, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Deauna Parker, and I was born and raised in Tampa Fl. After graduating Howard W Blake High School of Performing Arts as a chorus major in 2013, I enlisted to the United States Army. While in the military I began modeling on the side but I faced many challenges like physical injuries, depression, and anxiety, but my biggest hurdle was being diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease which led to the discharge of me being in the military. I started school at Full Sail University but was unable to successfully finish due to multiple admissions for flare-ups, malnutrition, and a recent full colectomy of my large colon. I also attended John Casablancas for modeling and acting and it took me longer to finish for the same reasons. After I graduated, though I was ready to give up on life because I struggled with my personal appearance, as well as, my confidence and felt my modeling career would soon be over as well. Going through so many health problems and body changes I doubted my worth and my beauty but after meeting America’s Next Top Model contestant Brittney Sharaun, her inspiring words of “You Are Enough” began the new area of Dee Yauna. My mantra is “You Are Stronger Than Your Circumstances “which is the motto I continue to stand by today. I want to help advocate on my disease as well as show people like myself living with chronic and physical conditions that despite your circumstances you can do anything you put your heart to. I always wanted to follow in my late father’s footsteps, who was an all-around entertainer and loving person who could make any and every one smile. My goal is to make him proud.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road by far. Before I got diagnosed in the military with Crohn’s Disease, I had no idea what was happening to my body. My condition has always been very aggressive, and I went through almost every medication my doctors could offer that they were ready to put me in a clinical trial. Come to find out that I couldn’t even qualify for it due to the severity of my condition that I had to have emergency surgery April of 2021 to remove my entire large colon which is why I have an ileostomy.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have been working for the Department of Veteran Affairs since September 2017. I love working for the VA because I am still able to be connected to a lot of veterans and individuals who still serve as well. My goal was to do 20+ years in the military but after my medical discharge I wanted to stay connected in any way I can. I always try to go above and beyond because I know how I want to be treated when I step into the VA as a patient and not an employee.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I plan on being a full-time model as well as having my own business upon graduating school. I have a passion for music and attending Full Sail University will help me network and open the doors I need to really make it to the next level. I have so many ideas in my head that I am ready to make reality. Parkers Productions, Parkers Paws. Days With Dee, DeeDees Ostomies just to name a few.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nymmg.com/portfolios/deauna-parker
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its_just_deeparker/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/100012882399292/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@deeyauna
Image Credits
Allen J. Johnson
