So now, for something personal. I don’t usually go into a ton of detail on the overarching factors of my life. However, today, I do want to share a bit of information. And I hope you will take it as no more than that.
Just about 3 years ago, in 2006, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. While I had been experiencing symptoms of this illness for several years, there was no conclusive information as to what this array of symptoms was due.
Oddly enough, receiving such a pathological diagnosis as multiple sclerosis helped me to turn inward and listen more closely to my body. While I would not ever call this diagnosis (or any) a gift, I would call it very eye opening. Having a serious diagnosis taught me to better manage my energy.
With this diagnosis, I have become an expert on myself. And for that I am grateful. Now, I know what works best for me. What is it? Among other things, sleep (lots of it), easy cardio exercise, strength training and eating well (for me that means no grains and of course, NO gluten).
When it comes to dealing with MS, I believe that each person is a unique individual that heals quite differently. I am sharing my story in order to let people know that when you find balance from within, this illness (and perhaps others) can be dealt with on a day-to-day level resulting in significant quality of life and productivity.
So, there you have it. At this point, it takes more energy to not disclose it and so I feel that it is time to share what I am experiencing both with my online community (you) and others with that I am in contact within my life. Yes, I do things a bit differently and perhaps oddly, due to this diagnosis. Yet, in many ways, I am quite “normal.” To say the least, I am very happy.
Thank you for listening and one request, please if you feel anything for me, let it be happiness and hope. These are the two guiding principles of my life and I want to share them with all of you each and every day.
Thank you for being my readers and my friends.
Jeanne says
I only now just noticed the almonds on the top of your web page-They make a heart! I was filled with such emotion after reading your post and all the responses; So sweet!
A great big hug to all of us that have turned to our bodies and made the food connection for our healing. I think we are on the right track towards healing our planet through healing ourselves!
I hope you are feeling better and better, as much as you’ve improved the quality of so many others’ lives, including my own.
much gratitude
JED
Melody McGriff says
Thank for the beautiful Testimony about recognizing, what it is to Come Into Your Own, not so much it was MS that brought this broader clarity but how its SPARKED a Wellness mode of practice in your life – So, to speak.
I’m delighted my Son, turned me on to your website of wonderful Healthy and Yummy Good recipes and now, I’ve come and read this. I’m smiling in thought at the WHO, YOU REALLY ARE. A Lovely heart and spirit – It comes through LOUD and CLEAR.
I’m so Loving the recipes I receive and will Project and Wish You – Nothing BUT – Wellness.
The Internet is such a wonderful Communicator.
~Melody McGriff (an Admirer)
Rebecca says
Elana,
I wanted to thank you for all of the effort you have spent helping others. This has been the hardest year of my life. I have been trying to recover my son from regressive autism. One year ago he had to use pictures to make requests, he would not make eye contact, and he was trapped in a world of his own. We started seeing a Naturopath doctor and found out that autism is about being sick physically. We had to change everything, and fast. Our doctor told us no gluten or dairy, he is being treated for yeast, and receives many vitamins. One month ago we found out he is also allergic to soy, so that solved the chronic diarrhea. I am extremely happy to say he now has full conversations with us, makes total eye contact, and enjoys playing with others. Also, this entire year I have been so ill that on my worst days the fatigue was so bad it hurt to breathe even while I was laying down. I am feeling better with time.
This is why I can’t even put into words how grateful my family is to have stumbled upon your website. I have to feed my family good foods. My twelve year old daughter is able to make any of your recipes by herself if she wants to. I am able to make any of your recipes, even on a bad day. Your recipes are so simple and nutritious. Thank you so very much :)
-Rebecca
Mal says
Elana, sorry to hear about your MS. I have people close to me that have had huge sucess with “The Feldenkrais Method”, I strongly urge you to reasearch it and find a practioner near you, it will amaze you. Take care, I love your website, I send it to all my friends.
monique says
thanks for sharing this information with me elena. wow i am even more in admiration of you now!! i have rheumatoid arthritis and was led to your site finding that staying away from grains really helps me. i wonder if you are aware of low dose naltrexone? there is a really good yahoo group for it with many with MS being helped. i wonder if you are also aware of this info:
http://www.gaps.me/preview/?page_id=28
it heals the gut which i believe is the root of autoimmune disease.
blessings to you
monique
k says
Way to go Elana. You are truly an inspiration.
Steven says
Great post and thanks for sharing what is in your heart and going on in your life. God bless.
MARY says
I found your letter very touching. I wish you a long, healthy, happy life.. I love your recipes as I am a low carber and have used many of the ones you create..You keep us healthy and it is much appreciated..
Diane-Thewholegang says
Elana,
I hope you got as much joy from writing this as I did reading it. I loved hearing your strength and your wisdom in listening to your body and doing what it needs. Too often we don’t take the time to really hear what our bodies are telling us. Sometimes it takes more than a stop sign but a road closure. I guess that’s when we can learn more on the detour. I think it’s wonderful for you to share your story. It will help so many others who are facing the same or similar circumstances. You are a true gift to us all.
Kelli says
Thank you for opening up to us like that. I would love if you chose to share more. I have chronic fatigue syndrom, and when I was first diagnosed I told my friends and family, and besides my husband I got very negative responses. Why did I seem to have energy on certain days and not others…hmmm, was I faking it? I would say that I am tired and get asked why. So now I don’t talk about it. I would love to watch another person walk through an illness gracefully. I am not sure how to do this. I know we don’t know eachother, but you seem graceful, like someone I could be friends with. I will pray for you! And learn from you to be happy and hopeful.