Turning Turmoil into Triumph: My Journey to Health and Renewal

I've always had a keen interest in healthy habits, but when a chronic issue unexpectedly struck, my concern deepened. After my annual thermogram, I was informed that there was significant inflammation in my left jaw. Weeks later, I began to experience pain that seemed to migrate—first to my throat and what felt like my lymph nodes, and then to my left arm, which developed strange pain. I found myself relying on Motrin constantly; it alleviated the pain but only heightened my anxiety. This all unfolded before the onset of COVID-19, so I couldn't attribute my troubles to that.

I knew something was seriously wrong with my body. Then, as the pandemic unfolded, my health took a further hit. I faced the devastating loss of my business, my father passed away, and I found myself quarantined with the wrong guy. In a moment of weakness, I started smoking again after 26 years of abstinence. My health was plummeting.

In a desperate attempt to understand my condition, I underwent a series of tests: CT scans, MRIs, blood work, additional thermograms, and evaluations of my heart, lungs, and bones. The final straw was a visit to an ENT specialist to check for throat cancer, a diagnosis I had convinced myself I probably had. After two long years of uncertainty, I received the shocking news: there was absolutely nothing physically wrong with me. 

Frustrated yet determined, I decided to take control of my health. Regardless of any diagnosis, I knew I needed to make changes. I had been a vegetarian for 20 years and regularly juiced, but I realized I needed to elevate my commitment to health in every aspect of my life. One by one, I addressed the issues that had been weighing me down—from nutrition and finances to relationships and how I spent my energy on daily activities. 

Maintaining my workout routine was crucial; exercise provided me with the endorphin rush that kept me going. The first area I tackled was my finances. I was broke and on the verge of losing my home. The thought of living in a Prius was daunting, especially since I had my beloved Golden Retriever to consider. Losing him would have felt like rock bottom for me. His presence motivated me to take action.

I accepted a job at $11 an hour working the front desk of a hotel, a far cry from my previous role as a Director of Sales for Marriott. During the height of COVID, they assured me I would transition back into sales when business picked up. I was getting up at 5 a.m. to drive 40 minutes for this humbling role, and while it was tough, I turned to hardcore motivational videos to keep my spirits up during my commute and throughout the day.

After eight grueling months, I reached my breaking point and walked out. The job was taking a toll on my health, and I knew I had to act on faith. Within two months, I secured a much higher-paying position as a Director of Sales for Marriott once again—one that allowed me to breathe and thrive.  From there I started a health coaching business to help others navigate their unknown chronic conditions.

This journey has taught me that even in the darkest times, resilience and determination can lead to renewal. By embracing change and taking control of my health and circumstances, I’ve not only found my footing again but also rediscovered my passion for life.

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