Wellness – Page 3 – Elevating Health, Inspiring Balance

Elevating People: Restored, Not Just Repaired

February 15, 2025 — 60 Pounds Down, a Surgery Behind Me, AND a New Chapter Ahead

In February of 2025, I hit a major milestone — 60 pounds down, exactly — after five years of hard work. But the journey wasn’t just about finding the right workout or sticking to a meal plan. It took time, trial, and a lot of frustration to figure out what my body actually needed. I went through multiple fitness programs, gyms, doctors, and kept showing up — even when things felt stuck. What I didn’t realize was that part of the struggle wasn’t just about fitness.

I was also battling persistent stomach issues that no routine could fix. It took several tests and specialists to finally get to the root of it — and that changed everything. I thought I was crossing the finish line when I hit my goal and lost my final pound in February. But my body was still telling me something wasn’t right in early 2025.

AND this isn’t just about weight. This journey has tested my health, my mindset, and my ability to keep going when nothing made sense.

I was dealing with symptoms that didn’t add up. No one could give me clear answers, but my body was screaming for help.

I want to share what I’ve learned because someone out there might be going through the same thing and not even realize what’s going on.

Here’s what I was experiencing:

Constant bloating that made me look pregnant after a meal, no matter what I ate. Persistent stomach pain and pressure, especially after meals or working out. A core that felt weak or unstable, no matter how much I trained. Episodes of nausea, indigestion, and even constipation that couldn’t be traced to food alone. An odd, domed shape down the middle of my abdomen when I sat up or strained.

And emotionally? Every time I looked in the mirror, I saw the loose skin and felt stuck between who I was and who I was trying to become.

Eventually, after pushing for more answers, I was diagnosed with a hidden (occult is the medical term) hernia and diastasis recti — a separation in the abdominal muscles that often goes unnoticed but causes serious discomfort, instability, and affects everything from core strength to digestion. It was difficult to find the hernia because it was hidden and that’s why it’s important to push for answers.

Here’s where things took a turn — and where I truly believe things aligned for a reason.

A coworker casually mentioned a plastic surgeon’s name while talking about a totally unrelated procedure she was preparing for. It just so happened to be a name I recognized — he had taken care of a few of my friends in the past.

If I hadn’t heard it, when I got diagnosed with my condition earlier this month, I would’ve gone to a general surgeon and had a standard ventral hernia repair with abdominal muscle repair (which is covered by insurance when it’s part of a hernia correction), and that would’ve been the end of it.

When my coworker mentioned the plastic surgeon’s name, something clicked after I got diagnosed — I realized I should see him instead of a general surgeon so I could address the entire problem, not just patch the medical part.

I ended up going to a plastic surgeon because I wanted the full picture addressed. And I learned something important:

🛑 Insurance doesn’t cover the removal of excess skin — even when it causes real, physical problems.

And that’s unfortunate. Because that skin wasn’t just cosmetic. It was hard to hide under clothes and worst of all — a daily reminder of the unhealthy choices that got me there in the first place.

So I made the decision to pay for that part myself.

In one surgery, I was able to have:

✔️ Hidden hernia repaired

✔️ Abdominal muscle repair

✔️ Belly button repositioned

✔️ Excess skin removed

Same recovery time as a general procedure at a cost to me. But the outcome? Life-changing.

Now I’m healing. I’m resting. I’m eating clean. I’ll return to working out when my body’s ready — because healthy eating and exercise aren’t just part of my life — they are my life and have been for the last 5 years in stages.

The last five years haven’t just been about losing weight — they’ve been about reclaiming my health, step by step. Every challenge, every test, every restart brought me closer to the root of what my body truly needed. This is a lifestyle built on healing, discipline, and faith — for life, not just for a season.

Looking back, that pain was a blessing in disguise. It led me to answers. It led me to the right surgeon. And it finally let me leave behind the past — both emotionally and physically.

If any of this sounds familiar to you, listen to your body. Push for answers. And know that healing is possible — even if it takes time to get there.

If you’re dealing with a hernia (mine was a ventral hernia) and abdominal muscle separation — especially after major weight loss or pregnancy — I don’t recommend going straight to a general surgeon.

Note: This is just my personal experience, not medical advice.

A general surgeon will address the medical issue, but they won’t focus on the full picture.

Plastic surgeons are trained to repair the function and the appearance of your core, while repairing your muscle and removing the hernia as well.

And that matters. Because this surgery isn’t just about fixing a medical problem that cannot stay unaddressed — it’s about making sure your body reflects the one you’re building, not the one you’re leaving behind.

You’ve worked hard to change your life. You deserve a result that honors that effort — not one that keeps you stuck in a body that doesn’t tell your real story.

And honestly — if you’re going to have the surgery anyway, you might as well do it right. Choosing a plastic surgeon doesn’t add more healing time, but it can completely change how you feel about your body afterward.

You’re not just fixing what’s broken — you’re reclaiming the body you’ve worked for. To every woman out there who’s carried weight, stress, babies, trauma — and still shows up and fights for her health — you deserve to feel strong, whole, and proud in your skin. Don’t just settle for repaired. Go for restored.

The reason I choose to share all of this is simple — because the Bible says to.

In Revelation 12:11, it says, “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” I believe our stories are meant to be told, especially when they can help someone else find healing, hope, or clarity.

If you’re a woman struggling with your health, your body, or just feeling lost in the process — I want to encourage you to surrender it all to God. Let Him guide you to the root of what’s really going on, physically and spiritually. The answers are there. Sometimes it takes faith, patience, and persistence to uncover them — but God doesn’t waste your pain, and He never misses the details.

Below is more detail about the two medical diagnosis I received.

✅ Mine was a small ventral hernia — hidden behind a weak spot in my abdominal wall, making it what’s considered an occult (or hidden) hernia.

This WAS the culprit for stomach pain, nausea, and constipation.

Why?

A hidden hernia involves tissue (like intestines or fat) pushing through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Even if it’s small or not visibly bulging, it can: Compress or restrict the intestines, leading to pain, bloating, nausea, and constipation. Cause intermittent obstruction of the bowel or trap nerves in the abdominal wall, resulting in chronic or sharp pain. Worsen with physical activity, straining, or heavy meals.

✅ Diastasis Recti (Muscle Separation):

This can contribute to digestive issues, but more indirectly.

Why?

It weakens the abdominal wall and core stability, which can: Slow digestion and reduce internal support, causing bloating or poor gut motility. Make you feel full quickly or chronically uncomfortable. Create that “disconnected” or “unsupported” feeling in the stomach area. It doesn’t usually cause nausea or constipation on its own, but it can amplify symptoms if other issues (like a hernia) are present, like in my case.

⚠️ Why it’s often hidden:

With diastasis recti, the abdominal wall is stretched, so pressure is distributed, and the hernia may not form a noticeable lump. Symptoms may show up instead — like bloating, pain, nausea, or core weakness — making it easy to miss without imaging.

“The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs… You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” — Isaiah 58:11 (NIV)

This journey has stretched me — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But through every setback, every unanswered symptom, every moment of confusion, God was guiding me. He didn’t just lead me to healing — He led me to understanding.

And now, I share my story in obedience. Because I believe God uses our struggles to point others to hope.

If you’re walking through your own storm, surrender it to Him. He knows the root. He holds the answers. And when you let Him lead, He won’t just patch you up — He’ll restore you completely.

Also, check out the full list of my recommended essentials—trust me, there are things on there you probably haven’t thought of! And if you’ve got tips of your own, I’d love for you to drop them in the blog comments for the benefit of the community of women going through this procedure!

Everything You Actually Need After a Tummy Tuck (That No One Tells You) with Links to BUY

Elevate People and Join the Less than 1% Club

Once I Found God, I Joined the Less Than One Percent Club

Before I gave my life to God, I was surviving.

Moving. Struggling. Pushing through.

Since I found Him?

I’ve been rising.

Not because I’m special.

Not because I “beat the odds.”

But because I stopped following the world’s script and started following God’s plan.

And I want to share with you. Because if I can do these things, so can you.

Hebrews 10:24–25 (NIV)

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

And the results?

Statistically rare. Spiritually undeniable.

Here’s what the numbers say:

Less than 1% overcame homelessness to achieve professional success.

I was homeless for four months of my pregnancy, wondering from home to home.

Less than 1% of teen moms graduate college by the age of 30

I did that! Go Cardinals (UIW).

Less than 1% have a Masters degree as a first generation graduate.

I have two! Guns Up (Tech) and Cardinals (UIW)!

Less than one percent reached an executive-level role (e.g., CEO, CFO, VP) before age 50

I became a CHRO at the age of 45.

Less than 1% became a female leader in a male-dominated industry (e.g., construction, tech, finance)

I work in the real estate AND construction industry.

Less than 1% broke generational cycles (e.g., first in family to graduate)

Yes! SO many. I’ve broken so many generational curses through the strength of Christ that I now consider my family Generation One.

Less than 1% successfully parented children as a teen while completing school and career goals.

I was in school for 16 of the first 18 years of my daughter’s life. I wanted to show her that perseverance is key—through the strength of Jesus Christ.

Less than 1% still actively training and working out past age 50.

Not yet, but I plan to be part of this club and declare it! I’ll be 50 in a year and a half!

This is my life. This is where I am. Because I showed up. I stayed ready. And I kept going when it would’ve been easier to stop.

I call it the Less Than One Percent Club — not because of what I’ve accomplished, but because of what God did through me.

Here are a few of the ways I live in that 1% lane:

• I turned a story that was supposed to end in limitation into one marked by leadership.

• I broke generational patterns without bitterness.

• I got stronger in every way — physically, mentally, spiritually.

• I live with purpose. I live with discipline. I live with faith.

This isn’t about ego. The devil used to tell me it was—that’s why it took me so long to write this blog.

This is about testimony.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV):

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

This is what happens when you stop asking, “What can I do?” and start asking, “God, what do You want to do with me?”

I shouldn’t be here — by the world’s standards.

But I’m here.

I’m proof that grace qualifies you for rooms statistics say you don’t belong in.

So many things qualify for the Less Than One Percent Club. Do you fall into any of these categories? Leave a comment—because sharing inspires and uplifts others.

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Elevating People: Lightning, the Cross, and the Power Surge Within You

When lightning strikes a tree, it’s violent, immediate, and life-altering. A bolt of raw power from the heavens punches through wood and sap, splitting bark, searing branches, and leaving behind something forever changed. It’s not subtle. It’s not gradual. It’s a jolt — full force.

“The voice of the Lord strikes with flashes of lightning.”

Psalm 29:7

And strangely enough, that’s a picture of what happened at the cross.

When Jesus died, something far more powerful than lightning ripped through the barrier between God and humanity. The veil tore. The divide cracked. And in that moment — not over time, not after a process — God filled us with His Spirit. Instant access. Instant connection. Not earned. Not built up over time. Just given, like a holy strike from heaven.

“At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split…”

Matthew 27:51

That same Spirit, that same divine surge, lives in us now. And that truth? It doesn’t just sit quietly in the spiritual corner of your life. It’s meant to affect everything — including how you train, how you move, how you live in your body.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?”

— 1 Corinthians 6:19

Fitness is a battlefield of discipline.

And discipline is spiritual. When you train, you push through resistance. You deny comfort. You commit to showing up when it would be easier to lie down. That’s not just physical. That’s spiritual fire.

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

— 2 Timothy 1:7

The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead — and yes, the same force that struck like lightning through the sin barrier — lives in you. That means your ability to rise, to get stronger, to endure, and to grow is supernaturally fueled. You’re not grinding alone.

“And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”

— Romans 8:11

So here’s the challenge:

When you hit that wall — in training, in life, in faith — remember the tree. Split by lightning. Changed forever. Then remember the cross. The moment everything shifted. And then remember you.

You don’t need to wait for some magical motivation or emotional high. You’ve already been struck. The power’s in you.

Train like you believe it.

Move like you’ve been lit up from the inside.

Because you have.

Elevating People:When Iron Sharpens Iron

When Iron Sharpens Iron: A Journey of Redemption, Discipline, and Belief

Three years ago, I began a journey to reclaim a body I had COMPLETELY neglected and abused through years of unhealthy choices and careless routines. The weight gain was significant—but heavier than the physical burden was the emotional one: shame. I had done this to myself. I had allowed stress, complacency, and poor habits to override the truth of who I was and who God had called me to be. This journey was never about vanity—it was about conviction. I had not honored my body as God’s temple, and I knew I was living outside of His word. Everything changed the moment I surrendered and asked Him to lead me back to health, strength, and purpose.

Something shifted deep inside me. I no longer wanted to be ruled by guilt or defeat. I asked Him to lead the way.And He did—just as He has every time I’ve come to Him broken. He picked up the pieces, put me back together, and began shaping a masterpiece once again.

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” — Ecclesiastes 3:11

That path led me to a local gym. It wasn’t welcoming or warm to the fat girl in the room and it was gritty, loud, and intimidating. The trainer/owner there was mean. He barked instructions filled with technical fitness language I didn’t understand. He looked at me with what felt like contempt, as if he were thinking, She’ll never get this. She’ll never stay consistent. He doubted me, but with my commitment to God and my husband by my side—I didn’t let it stop me.

Quietly, I stayed. I didn’t understand why God would lead me to a place that felt so hostile and unwelcoming—but I chose to trust Him anyway. I believed there was purpose in the discomfort, and that God was doing something bigger than I could see in the moment.

I accepted his attitude because I knew who was truly in charge—God was leading this transformation, not the man in front of me. I stayed for two years. Through those years, I didn’t match harshness with harshness. Instead, I remained steady and grounded, hoping my presence would eventually ELEVATE his way of thinking. Maybe, just maybe, he’d begin to treat others with dignity, compassion, and respect—and ultimately, see Jesus in me and lean into His everlasting and forgiving love.

Over time, I came to learn that his anger wasn’t really about me—it was misdirected, rooted in deep personal pain and addiction. That’s when God revealed why He had placed me there. It wasn’t just about my physical transformation; it was about being a quiet light in someone else’s darkness, while I dealt with my own.

We were more alike than I realized. It became clear that my presence there served a deeper purpose—to reflect patience, humility, and perseverance as we each navigated very different, yet equally dark seasons of life. In that space, I was called to extend the kind of grace that only comes from Christ.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

But I also believe in strong boundaries. And when I sensed that the work God had called me to in that season was finished, I knew it was time to go.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

This reminds us that not every relationship or assignment is meant to last forever. Some people are placed in our lives for only a season—and that’s by design, not failure. Learning to recognize when a season has ended is part of walking in wisdom.

When I sensed that my work there was complete, I didn’t hold on out of guilt or obligation. I released it with peace, trusting that God had used that season for His purpose—and that it was time to move into the next.

Eventually, a new gym came to town—ISI, which stands for Iron Sharpens Iron—owned by Spenser and Hannah. My husband and I made the switch. I didn’t just find a gym—I found a tribe, a mission, and a second wind.

Since joining ISI, I’ve lost another 25 pounds. I hit my ultimate goal. I gained muscle, lost body fat—but more importantly, I found community. And in that community came belief. ISI didn’t just transform my body—it elevated my confidence and reignited a fire in me to keep showing up, not just for the workouts, but for the life God was calling me to live.

Coach Spenser didn’t just count my reps—he made me feel like a valued player on a team with a greater purpose. At ISI, it’s not just about fitness—it’s about showing up, growing stronger, and representing something bigger, like being part of a team where every person matters and every effort counts.

He believed in me when I doubted myself. He pushed me past my limits, not to punish me but to elevate me. And in doing so, he embodied true leadership. The kind that sharpens, strengthens, and shapes character.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

That faith was reaffirmed at ISI, where Spenser’s coaching extended to the incredible team he hired—I consistently felt the same level of support, challenge, and care through each one of them and ISI is now part of my daily life.

ISI has become my favorite place at the end of the day—a space where I’m challenged, supported, and reminded of who I’m becoming through faith, discipline, and community. Best of all, my husband and I get to show up together and live this life side by side.

The video below captures one of those moments—where Coach Spenser’s belief in me shows what Iron Sharpens Iron really means. It’s not just a catchy name. It’s a principle rooted in God’s Word:

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
— Proverbs 27:17

This journey isn’t just about weight loss. It’s about redemption. It’s about becoming sharper, stronger, and more faithful—TOGETHER.

This video captures a powerful moment in my journey—a coach seeing potential in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself. Through his belief and challenging encouragement, he pushed me beyond my limits and helped me rise to a new level—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s a glimpse into the kind of transformation that happens when someone refuses to let you settle for less—and instead, sharpens you to become your best.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that we all need our own version of “ISI”—a tribe of people who believe in us, challenge us, and walk beside us as we grow. This journey isn’t a sprint; it’s a daily commitment to show up, even when it’s hard.

As Coach Spenser always says, “If you stay consistent, the results will show.”

Fitness, like faith, requires trust in what you can’t see yet, per Spenser and I could not agree more. The results don’t come overnight—but with faith, discipline, and the right people around you, transformation will come.

So find your team, stay the course, and trust that God is shaping something far greater than you can imagine. IT IS NEVER TOO LATE

Joel 2:25 (NIV)
“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…”

No matter how far you’ve drifted or how much time you feel you’ve lost, God is able to restore, redeem, and make all things new. Stay faithful—He’s not finished writing your story.

REDUCE INFLAMATION

The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet is designed to help reduce inflammation and support healing by eliminating foods that may trigger immune responses. However, everyone’s body is different, and if you’re determined to try it, you should experiment with the do’s and don’ts to see what combination works best for you. This is about finding what fuels your body, NOT just following strict rules.

The Do’s and Don’ts of the AIP Diet: Finding What Works for You

The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet is a tool designed to help reduce inflammation, heal the gut, and support immune system balance. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re determined to try it, you should experiment with the do’s and don’ts to find what works best for your body. Everyone reacts differently, and it’s important to listen to your body throughout the process.

The Do’s of the AIP Diet

✅ Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods that nourish the body, such as grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, organ meats, and a variety of vegetables.

✅ Prioritize Gut Health: Include gut-healing foods like bone broth, fermented vegetables, and coconut products to support digestion and reduce inflammation.

✅ Choose Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Load up on leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower), healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, coconut oil), and fresh herbs like turmeric and ginger.

✅ Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support digestion, flush toxins, and keep energy levels stable.

✅ Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel after eating certain foods. The elimination phase is about discovering what helps or hurts your body.

✅ Manage Stress: Stress can be just as inflammatory as food. Prioritize rest, prayer, meditation, or activities that help calm your nervous system.

✅ Get Enough Sleep: Your body heals during sleep, so aim for at least 7–9 hours of quality rest each night.

The Don’ts of the AIP Diet

❌ Don’t Expect Instant Results: Healing takes time. Some people feel better in weeks, while others take months to see changes. Be patient with yourself.

❌ Don’t Ignore Your Symptoms: If a food on the “approved” list makes you feel unwell, it may not be right for your body. Keep track of reactions and adjust as needed.

❌ Don’t Overlook Nutrient Deficiencies: If you’re feeling weak, dizzy, or overly fatigued, you may need to adjust your intake of certain nutrients like iron, magnesium, or B vitamins.

❌ Don’t Compare Your Journey to Others: Everyone’s healing process is unique. What works for one person might not work for another.

❌ Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health: Restrictive eating can be stressful. Make sure you’re approaching this diet in a way that feels sustainable and supportive, not overwhelming.

❌ Do Not Drink Alcohol – Alcohol can increase inflammation, disrupt gut health, and impair immune function. Eliminating it can help your body heal more effectively.

❌ Do Not Eat Grains & Gluten – Wheat, rice, oats, corn, and other grains can contribute to gut irritation and autoimmune flare-ups.

❌ Do Not Consume Dairy – Milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter can trigger inflammation and digestive issues, especially for those with autoimmune conditions.

❌ Do Not Eat Legumes – Beans, lentils, peanuts, and soy contain compounds that may irritate the gut lining and contribute to immune dysfunction.

❌ Do Not Eat Nightshade Vegetables – Tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers can cause inflammation in some people with autoimmune issues.

❌ Do Not Eat Nuts & Seeds – Almonds, peanuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and other nuts/seeds may be difficult to digest and can trigger immune responses.

❌ Do Not Eat Eggs – While eggs are a great source of protein, they can be inflammatory for some people during the elimination phase.

❌ Do Not Consume Processed Foods – Avoid packaged, artificial, and highly processed foods with preservatives, additives, and unhealthy oils.

❌ Do Not Eat Refined Sugar & Sweeteners – Processed sugars can spike inflammation and disrupt blood sugar balance, affecting overall health.

❌ Do Not Rely on “AIP-Approved” Foods Without Listening to Your Body – Just because a food is technically allowed doesn’t mean it works for you. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly.

❌ Do Not Ignore Stress & Sleep – Healing isn’t just about food. Managing stress and getting quality sleep are just as important as what you eat.

❌ Do Not Expect Overnight Results – Healing takes time. Stick with it, be patient, and adjust based on your body’s needs.

❌ Do Not Follow AIP Without Consulting Your Doctor if You Have Other Autoimmune Conditions – If you have conditions like diabetes, lupus, or any other medical concerns, check with your doctor before making dietary changes. Your health is unique, and you need a plan that’s safe and effective for you.

This list is a guide, but remember—everyone’s body is different. Finding what works for you is key to making AIP a sustainable lifestyle!

Final Thoughts

The AIP diet is not about perfection—it’s about finding what works for you. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods, listening to your body, and making adjustments as needed, you can create a plan that supports your health in a way that’s sustainable. Healing isn’t a straight path, but every step forward is progress.

What’s been your experience with AIP? Have you found certain foods that work better for you? Let’s share and support each other on this journey!

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HASHIMOTO’s and the REALITY OF FATIGUE

Did You Know?

Hashimoto’s, and the Reality of Fatigue

Yesterday, we headed out for a beautiful day of hiking and exploring. The sun was shining, the scenery breathtaking—but about halfway through the day, the familiar wave of exhaustion that comes with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis began to hit me. I could feel myself slowing down, my body heavy, my steps more labored. By the time we finished, the fatigue was overwhelming.

On our drive home, I couldn’t keep my eyes open—I had to sleep. After resting, I felt better, though my movements and thoughts were slower than usual throughout the evening. This isn’t uncommon for me. Whether it’s a day of hiking or an intense workout, I know I’ll face significant fatigue afterward. But here’s the thing: I refuse to let Hashimoto’s stop me from living fully. I get up, push through, and keep moving forward.

The fatigue isn’t just “feeling tired.” It’s an intense, systemic exhaustion rooted deeply in how my body functions due to this autoimmune condition. My thyroid is under attack, causing low hormone production, slowed metabolism, chronic inflammation, and reduced cellular energy production. All of this contributes to the extreme fatigue I experience.

Managing this fatigue means my recovery is different—not worse, just different. I’ve learned to listen closely to my body, knowing when to rest and recover.

A crucial part of managing this is through diet. Eating healthier, choosing anti-inflammatory foods, and being mindful of nutrition helps me regulate my body’s response.

MY favorite dish, but with caution because steamed buns have gluten and that is on the do not eat list!

Read my post about AIP diets.

If I eat something that’s not on the list, I just have to accept that I won’t feel my best afterward, and if I do it too often, it will keep me from reaching remission. My body reacts differently now, and I have to be mindful of that. But in my humble opinion, cheating is just fine once in a while—life is meant to be enjoyed, and sometimes that means indulging. The key is balance, knowing when it’s worth it, and making sure those choices don’t become habits that set me back.

My current TPO antibody number is 392, reflecting where I am on this journey. I’ll be updating this number as I work towards remission and healthier days ahead.

I’m committed to not only pushing myself physically but also improving how I nourish my body. Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing more soon on how dietary changes are helping me manage Hashimoto’s and reduce inflammation.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your support means everything.

My hope is to elevate people navigating Hashimoto’s and autoimmune challenges by sharing my journey with honesty, resilience, and hope. Through personal experiences, education, and practical strategies, I aim to normalize the need for rest, encourage perseverance, and show that recovery isn’t a setback—it’s just different. By fostering a supportive community, I strive to empower others to take control of their health, embrace their unique healing process, and live fully despite the challenges they face.

ELEVATING PEOPLE THROUGH WELLNESS

Welcome to My Journey: Fitness, Health, and Redemption in Your 50s

Did You Know? | Hashimoto’s Series: Part 1

Did you know that because Hashimoto’s causes extreme fatigue, many experts recommend only low-impact exercises like Pilates, yoga, and walking? While that advice can be helpful for some, I’ve personally gone against it.

Yes, I do feel the fatigue at times, and there are days when I have to push through it. Sometimes, I experience extended fatigue after intense workouts, and when that happens, I make adjustments. But 90% of the time, I can keep up just fine.

Don’t let Hashimoto’s label you or make you feel like you can’t do something. If you know me, you know that telling me I can’t do something only makes me more determined to do it.

I’m passionate about this because exercise and diet have been the keys to my health transformation from 2017 to now. Your body is stronger than you think—don’t let a diagnosis define your limits!