The Diagnosis That Floored Me

One day you will tell the story of how you overcame what you went through and it will be someone else’s survival guide.

I love the great outdoors.  I crave adventure and the adrenaline rush from class V rivers. Running brings me a sense of accomplishment and crossing finish lines after distance races makes me feel unstoppable. I have the coolest job ever. I get to bring pain relief to my clients through bodywork and yoga.  My body is my instrument.  If it’s not functional, I cannot do these things.
 
Earlier this year, I sustained an injury while bouldering. I thought it was just a bad case of tendonitis but  something a little more sinister was making itself at home.  Six months had gone by and I could no longer ignore the mounting symptoms.
Night Sweats, Fatigue, Painful Joints, Raynaud’s, Inflammation, Weight loss
Something wasn’t right.  My doctor ordered blood work and diagnosed this very quickly.  Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).  I have Lupus. There is no cure, but it can be managed.

I took a proactive approach to reduce the inflammation in my body which included medication, dietary changes, sleeping 7-8 hours every night, reducing stress, focusing on gut health, instating strict boundaries in my personal and professional life. 

The last three months have been focused solely on my well-being.  I’m happy to report the inflammation is down, my organs are healthy, and I’m feeling like myself again.  . 

I share my story because many of my clients are faced with the same challenges.  (Autoimmune Conditions, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, Injuries)  I understand how you feel.  I understand what it’s like to wake in the morning with the intention of tackling a list of to-do’s, yet you need a nap after your shower.  

There is so much I want to do with this one glorious life.  Sitting at home protected by bubble wrap isn’t one of them. I will be using my platform to share the information that I have gained. 

Last month I gave myself the ultimate 40th Birthday gift.  I crossed the finish line in a 24.1 mile triathlon. (pictured below) I was so grateful to my body for holding up, I unleashed a floodgate of tears as my toes hit the finish line. Just a few months earlier, I was struggling with the most basic tasks.

When faced with challenges we can either dismantle or rebuild.  I choose to build back stronger. 
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I will never stop believing in the capabilities of the human body. It is a smart vessel and when given the right tools, she will heal and protect herself. I am living proof.