I joined the VivaWise Functional Wellness team to support administration and marketing, and I couldn’t be happier to be one step closer to becoming a nutritionist. My wellness journey started years ago when I began experiencing symptoms of weight loss, fatigue, disrupted sleep, hair loss, and overwhelming anxiety. After countless doctors’ visits and a few trips to the ER, I felt like a lost cause because apparently “all my labs were normal”.

Thankfully, my sister was a few years ahead of me on her own health journey and introduced me to the world of functional medicine. Determined to find answers and give myself a chance at a healthy life, I started researching. I was shocked at the wealth of knowledge I had been missing all of this time. I decided to see a functional practitioner and was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

My doctor expressed her sympathy and sorrow, and I said “Don’t be sorry, you’re the first person to validate what I’ve been feeling. I knew I wasn’t crazy!” In my mind, the diagnosis was the first step to healing. So, I dove headfirst into research on the power of nutrition, exercise, stress relief, and many other topics. I am now much healthier and happier and look forward to a long life without debilitating anxiety.

This process ignited a personal passion. So, I started working towards a new goal of becoming a Certified Nutrition Specialist to share this hope for healing with others like me. I recently started my master’s degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine at University of Western States and plan to graduate in September 2024. After that, I plan to receive my CNS certification so that I can empower others to live in harmony with their bodies. More than anything, I want to offer hope to anyone who has ever felt like they’re doomed to frustrating doctor’s visits and never-ending symptoms. You’re meant for so much more! Healing is possible when you have the right tools in your toolbox, and I’m happy to be part of providing that toolbox.