Multiple Sclerosis was my lemon.  Making huge changes to reverse my symptoms, becoming a certified health and wellness coach, and dedicating my life to educating and bringing hope to others is my lemonade!

Four years ago, my health was failing fast.  I was in unbearable pain every single day.  My mobility and strength were declining rapidly and I felt utterly hopeless.  Thank God, I came across Dr. Terry Wahls’ TED talk video.  She, too, had advancing MS. Through extensive medical research she developed a plan to reverse her symptoms and get her life back.  Her story was awe-inspiring.  Seeing her life transformation, I committed to follow her plan to the letter in an attempt to garner similar results.

Making such huge dietary changes was very challenging for me.  I am a full blooded Italian woman in my mid-fifties who spent her entire life eating pizza, pasta, and pastries!!  Understandingwhy I had to make such drastic changes was necessary.  Education was key.  I read every single book on the subject and came to understand why certain foods had caused such an inflammatory response in my body, making it susceptible to an autoimmune disease.

I eliminated all grains, refined sugars, legumes, dairy, and processed foods from my diet.  I literally had dreams about pizza!  But I was determined.  I began eating grass fed meats, organic fruits and vegetables, wild caught fish, butter from grass-fed animals, coconut and olive oil.

Within two weeks, I started to feel like a different person.  The dark cloud that engulfed me began to lift.  Within a month, I noticed that the oppressive daily pain began to ease.  Within 6 months, I was in the gym doing light exercises – and it felt good!  Within a year, I was participating in 5K’s!  Within two years, I was nearly asymptomatic.  I had restored strength and vibrant health.

Learning about this lifestyle is truly a gift.  One year ago, I felt compelled to find a way to help others.  Like most of us, I am surrounded by people who are suffering with chronic pain, debilitating diseases, and failing health.  They feel hopeless and afraid.  My life had been so dramatically transformed and my passion to help others had been born.  I knew I had to find a way to share with them the same hope I had found.

I went back to school and became a Certified Health and Wellness coach.  From that education, I have found my calling.   I offer group seminars, one on one sessions, grocery store shopping trips and pantry makeovers – all in an attempt to share this life changing information with others.  My blog is filled with ways others can enhance their health and wellness.

Twenty years ago, when I was diagnosed with MS, I was terrified.  Through the years, the struggles were many and, often times, unbearable.  However, today, I can honestly say I am thankful for those struggles.  Adversity made me strong.  God’s grace brought me to the place where I am today.  I have a keen understanding that food really is medicine.  I am passionate about helping others find a better way.  I am truly blessed to have made it through some very dark days.  Now I want to help others nurture their lives!

Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my story.