As we pick up speed in the New Year, I am excited to share that I am embarking on a new adventure. But this isn’t the typical New Year’s resolution kind of journey. Nor is it simply setting an intention to guide me during the upcoming year.
I have spent the past year fighting to regain my health. I was diagnosed with my first autoimmune disease (Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura) in 2004. I was diagnosed with my next autoimmune illness (Hashimoto Thyroiditis) in 2012. By late 2017, I was in the middle of a perfect autoimmune storm. I was constantly fighting one infection or another of some sort…from minor colds, to a bout of bronchitis that became my BFF, to my first ever experience having the flu! After about 6 months of feeling like crap, I sought help from a functional doctor. It was only then I learned the detrimental impact autoimmune illness can have…and let me tell you, it is no joke.
There has been a silver lining for me though. As a certified health and wellness coach, I have found my niche. There are over 50 million people living with autoimmune disease. That means nearly one in five people are coping with at least one of the more than 100 autoimmune illnesses. While autoimmunity is not curable, making diet and lifestyle changes can go a long way to improving health.
Later this month, I will begin an AIP Certified Coach Practitioner Training Program. I’m excited to channel my energy to help other people living with autoimmune disease improve their quality of life.