The Journey I Never Booked (and What It Taught Me)

I once traveled the world for the joy of it—meeting new people, savoring diverse cuisines, absorbing music, art, religions, and cultures with wonder. I had nearly completed my goal of visiting every continent when, in 2019, my travels took an unexpected detour: I embarked on a new kind of journey—one through the complex landscape of health.

It began with a severe allergic reaction to medications prescribed for Atrial Fibrillation. Until then, I’d never been hospitalized except to deliver my four children. When the doctors kept me for four days, I knew this was serious.

That experience became a wake-up call. I realized I could no longer blindly trust medical professionals without asking questions, reading the fine print, and becoming my own health advocate. Thankfully, my three daughters were with me in the ER that day. I couldn’t speak, but they could. I often wonder what would’ve been recorded on my intake form if the nurse had been left to guess.

Since then, I’ve approached my health like one of my research projects. I study each diagnosis, consult with my healthcare team, exchange insights with friends on similar paths, and dive deep into the ever-expanding "University of YouTube." I’ve joined support groups, learned the names of my conditions and medications, and started asking for corrections when medical summaries are inaccurate.

From the start, I’ve sought non-prescription solutions wherever possible. The allergic reaction taught me that not all treatments are a fit, and sometimes they can make things worse.

Through trial, error, and persistence, I’ve made meaningful progress:

• I discovered a medication that was aggravating my Afib and, with test results in hand, persuaded my cardiologist to change the prescription.

• I reversed Type 2 diabetes—despite the medical industry’s reluctance to use that word. My A1C is now in the normal range, and I’ve managed it entirely without medication, checking my blood sugar daily to stay informed.

• I pushed for two retests of my sleep apnea diagnosis and improved from “severe” to “mild”—now just a few points from normal.

• I changed my eating habits and started moving my body daily—not for vanity, but vitality.

I’ve also deepened my spiritual and emotional practices.

Meditation, affirmations, intuitive coaching, therapy and Reiki have helped me address the anxiety that often accompanies chronic conditions.

I had no idea how exhausting it is to constantly monitor symptoms and juggle care plans—but now, I no longer get undone by every twitch. I pause, evaluate, and respond with greater calm.

That doesn't mean I don't experience anxiety sometimes. When it shows up, I do what one of my coaches suggests about facing fears. 

I acknowledge the anxiety/fear, but say to it, "You may ride along, but you can't get behind the wheel."

My health journey continues.

I'm still improving sleep, hydration, and learning how to live with the latest conditions that have joined the caravan.

But I’m no longer a passive passenger.

I’m informed, empowered, and—though it’s not the kind of journey I ever expected—I’m navigating it with purpose.

Have you found yourself on a health or other unexpected challenging journey?
If so, sharing your story of resilience and wisdom has the power to not only strengthen you, but will benefit your loved ones who read it later.

If you're still hesitating to write your life story, click below to take the next step with my video course

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If you're ready to take the wheel and finally write your life story, let's chat to see the best route for you. Book a complimentary Discovery Chat with me now.