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.
Chay says
Thank you for sharing your experience. I too was diagnosed with an illness last year (hypothyroidism) and since then have found myself on the journey towards managing my health and trying to improve the quality of my life. It can be very overwhelming at times. I was put on medication and told that I would have to take it for the rest of my life. I’ve never been one to take medication let alone aspirin! So I decided to try and get to the source of my illness as I am only 34 years old and felt there must be ways to get to the bottom of it all and take responsibility for my health. I believe it’s something you have to earn and work hard at it. I am determined to get of these pills. Anyways, in my search for wellness I stumbled upon your blog. I love your recipes and the other pieces of information you offer. I too have a family and enjoy your voice as a writer, chef and mother. You are funny, smart and honest and it’s been a pleasure! I have only heard you as a positive force who enjoys her life and is passionate about her health.
Cheers!
XChay
Betty says
Elana,
Thank you for sharing your diagnosis. I do have celiac and have yet to receive a diagnosis for all the other symptoms I have. I would love to hear the process of your diagnosis as well as the practical changes you’ve made to conserve your energy. I will work on listening to my body more.
Blessings, Betty
Faux Pas says
Thank you so much for the recipes and the friendship you extend to all of us, and thank you so much for the joy that you take in living well, and for being so positive. Your post is an inspiration and I will remember it for a long time. Whenever I start to complain about something, it will remind me to shut up and count my blessings, and to remember your courage and wonderful attitude. Most of all, thank you for being you, and for sharing. This post has made a big impact on me and many other fans. You will be in a lot of people’s thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Martha says
Thank-you for your thoughts. I think this is why I love your blog so much, because you have found a way to live despite the struggles you have in your life. Over the past several years, this has also been my goal as I’ve struggled with several life-changing illnesses, and I’ve loved the insights your blog gives to me concerning food and things of a more personal matter. Recently I’ve learned the importance of sufficient sleep and time to ponder. I have not been listening well enough to my body and it has been suffering because of it. I know my body needs that time to recoup and re-energize for the tasks it must perform. Eating right is not enough, although it helps tremendously.
My husband and I have longed for children, and have learned that my hCG levels are not increasing as they should, thus I’ve had several miscarriages. As I was sitting here pondering my next steps, I decided to read your post, and it reminded me of the importance of sleep and continual care for my body. I feel this is the key to helping my body carry a child. Thanks again for your beautiful words.
Michelle says
Look into MTHFR testing as well as antiphospholipid testing to see if you test positive to one or both.
Either of these conditions can contribute to miscarriages.
Both issues can be helped with appropriate supplementation, etc. ( examples: B vitamins, Folopro,etc.)
Much luck to you…
Suzette says
Elana, I so enjoy your blog … and wish I could muster my own energies to do even a fraction of what you do, on my own blog.
The issue of celiac so blankets my life that I also have not addressed my own Big Scary health problem on my personal blog – which was the discovery of a brain tumor, removed 18 months ago, but with the forewarning that it may re-grow. You’ve at least encouraged me to THINK about sharing on this count. But I kind of don’t even want to “go there” with a full-on entry about it.
I admire your courage, and continue to admire your writing and commitment to what you do here. Cannot wait for your cookbook to be out!
“The Naked Fork”
Natalie says
Elana – It takes a lot of courage to share your personal health issues in such a public forum. I think it aids our own internal healing to share our health challenges. Some of us get to that point sooner than others.
I was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer 4 years ago and it took me a while before I was able to start writing about it on the blog. Now it is just a part of my life. That single event was a turning point in my own health as it brought to light other autoimmune issues I have (adrenal fatigue & hypothyroidism). Now, I’m armed with our dietary changes and other health steps to help keep me healthy, but also to keep my family healthy.
I wish you and your family the best of health.
Natalie @ Gluten a Go Go
Meghan (Making Love In The Kitchen says
It is amazing how the things that may seem tragic at the moment, do in fact turn out to be our greatest ‘gifts’ and help steer us on the right path. I know that I share this belief with many others who have been dealt an illness or trauma of some sort. I have told my story on my site and I know that many of my readers gain strength and inspiration through the way I handled my own disease. I am sure that you sharing this information will undoubtedly help others to take control of their own health and help themselves through this most healthful way of eating.
Mona says
Elena,
Thank you for sharing that.I am a cancer
survivor.I also have an allergy to wheat.After reading how food allergies can cause inflamation within your body,I have come to really appreciate your wonderful recipes! I am excited
when I see an e-mail from your address!
Thank You for all you do! You give hope to me! Sincerely,Mona
Mir says
You go girl!! Be proud of yourself.
Debbie says
Peace and Good Health to you and your family. I am at a loss for words. I feel your spirit.