​

​​​This is not medical advice,
and I am not a physician.
I’m simply sharing what I’ve learned
through my own experiences with
illness, recovery, and the search 
for better health and well-being.
These things worked for
me in a powerful way.

When I was diagnosed with lupus in 2000,

I was living with constant pain and fatigue.

Even everyday tasks felt overwhelming,

and I worried about what my future might

look like if my health continued to decline.

At the time, my best friend was one

of the healthiest people I’ve ever known.

Before committing to medications

with significant potential side effects,

I was encouraged to learn everything

I could about nutrition, movement,

and lifestyle.  Rather than asking just how

to manage my symptoms, I became curious

 about how I might better support my body.

That curiosity changed my life.

One of the books that profoundly
influenced my healing journey was 
Lupus: Alternative Therapies That Work.
It introduced  a different way
of thinking about food—not simply as
something to just enjoy, but as something
that could nourish and support healing; 
food as fuel and medicine.

I gradually adopted a mostly plant-based

diet, began walking, lifting weights,

practicing yoga.  I significantly reduced

highly processed foods, salt, gluten,

added sugars, and alcohol. 


At the time, my motivation was simple:

I wanted to do everything in my power to

protect my health and quality of life.

Over time, I experienced less pain, more

energy, improved fitness, and a renewed

sense of hope I could be truly well.  

The Vitamix, food processor, juicer,

and dehydrator became trusted

companions in the kitchen.


MyFitnessPal has been a great tool

for me and many of the personal

trainers I have worked with over the years.

It tracks what you eat, shows calories,

macronutrients, vitamins & minerals, 

sets nutrition goals, connects to fitness

apps, monitors trends over time, 

and helps identify habits.


If you're having health challenges, start 

with the basics and common sense. 

Get clear on what and how much you are eating.

Move your body, drink water, and eat real,

whole food.  Find healthcare professionals

who listen, respect your questions,

and are willing to partner with you.

A good physician treats more than a 

diagnosis - they care for the whole person.


In my experience, wellness is

rarely about choosing one path over

another.  Nutrition, movement, sleep,

stress management, and compassionate

medical care work together.

Every person’s journey is different.


Know what you're eating.
​Listen to your body.
Trust your intuition.