My unhealthy past

If you haven't already, take a peek at my "About Me" page to get a glimpse into my journey. This blog post dives deeper into the experiences that shaped my perspective on health and nutrition, particularly my battle with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA).

The Sneaky Onset of JRA

As I mentioned in my "About Me," I was diagnosed with JRA around the age of 25. It began around age 21-22, with subtle aches and pains, primarily in my right shoulder—the same shoulder I shattered falling off a horse as a kid. (To this day, I can only raise my arm halfway, thanks to that incident!).

The pain spread gradually, affecting other joints, and that's when alarm bells started ringing. Initially, some doctors brushed it off as minor aches and pains, nothing serious. Looking back, and hearing similar stories from others with JRA, I'm concerned about how often early symptoms are dismissed. It worries me that many people might be missing out on early intervention and treatment that could prevent significant damage down the road.

I've often wondered if my experience would have been different if I hadn't been on welfare medical insurance at the time. Did that influence the level of testing and investigation I received? Would things have been caught sooner with better insurance? It's a question that lingers.

A Doctor Who Changed My Life

Thankfully, I encountered a kind and experienced doctor that had experience as a  rheumatologist who recognized the signs of JRA and provided me with the care and support I desperately needed. I'll always be grateful for his thoroughness and compassion. He truly made a difference in my life.

His diagnosis, however, forced me to confront the consequences of my past choices. Had I prioritized my health earlier, would I still be facing this battle? Would the damage to my joints be less severe if I had embraced a healthier lifestyle?

I remember a conversation with my mother years ago, where she described how she'd interpret repeated obstacles on a journey as a sign to change course. Perhaps my JRA diagnosis was my own "red light," a signal to re-evaluate my path.

Life's Wake-Up Calls

My journey with JRA has been a profound teacher. It's given me a metaphorical slap upside the head, urging me to pay attention to my body and make conscious choices. These days, I'm much more attuned to the signals my body sends.

For example, I've noticed a direct correlation between my energy drink consumption and flare-ups of episcleritis, an inflammation of the eye lining. It's a frustrating trade-off, but I'd rather forgo those sugary drinks than deal with the painful eye condition. These little "wake-up calls" remind me that my health is a delicate balance, and even small indulgences can have consequences.

The Early Days: A Humbling Experience

The initial stages of JRA were incredibly humbling. Prednisone and methotrexate helped me regain some mobility, but the pain and limitations were still significant. Walking with a cane at a young age took a toll on my self-esteem. I felt like people were constantly staring, and the need to use a cane was a constant reminder of my condition.

Working at Walmart as a door greeter (with a stool for support) was both a blessing and a source of embarrassment. I'll never forget Ed, the elderly door greeter who also used a cane. We'd often race to the time clock at the end of our shifts, our canes clicking in unison.

The pain was relentless, especially in my knees. Every step, every uneven surface sent jolts of agony through my body. There were countless nights spent crying myself to sleep, only to wake up in pain and cry some more. My wife was my rock during this time, offering unwavering support and understanding. She never judged, always helped, and captured those difficult moments in photographs—mostly of me sleeping, looking gaunt and exhausted.

Fatigue was a constant companion. I remember falling asleep on the couch at family gatherings, napping in my car during lunch breaks—my body was waging an internal war, and exhaustion was the price.

A Doctor's Blunt Honesty and the Search for Alternatives

I recall a rather blunt conversation with my rheumatologist. He scolded me for skipping appointments to save money, emphasizing the importance of consistent treatment. He even went so far as to suggest I might not live to see 40 if I continued neglecting my health. While his delivery was harsh, his message resonated.

That conversation fueled my search for alternative treatments and holistic healing. I experimented with various supplements and creams, hoping to find something that would provide relief. Pantothenic acid seemed to help, and lidocaine patches offered temporary comfort, but nothing truly addressed the root of the problem.

Discovering Optimal Health Systems and the Power of Nutrients

In my late 30s, a friend introduced me to Optimal Health Systems (OHS) and their whole food supplements. I was immediately drawn to their philosophy of using natural ingredients to support the body's innate healing abilities. I applied for a job there, eager to learn more about their approach.

Working at OHS was a turning point. I gained a deeper understanding of nutrition and the power of whole food supplements. The owner and formulator emphasized the importance of consistency and a holistic approach, encouraging me to commit to a new regimen.

I embraced his advice, taking the supplements diligently and making dietary changes. The results were transformative. I felt better than I had in years, and eventually, I was able to taper off my medications completely, relying solely on the OHS supplements.A decision I had made and not the formulator. It was my decision to make these commitments and choices with whole food supplementation.

Embracing the Nutrient Nerd Within

Today, I'm a passionate advocate for nutrition and a self-proclaimed "Nutrient Nerd." I continue to learn and grow, guided by the wisdom of the OHS founder. I've come to realize that true healing comes from working with nature, not against it.

The Ripple Effect of Choices

My journey with JRA has been challenging, humbling, and ultimately, incredibly rewarding. It's highlighted the profound impact our choices have on our lives. Looking back, I see a clear connection between my past decisions and my health struggles. But I also see how those struggles paved the way for incredible growth and transformation.

Had I not faced those challenges, had I not made those difficult choices, my life would undoubtedly be different. Perhaps I wouldn't have met my amazing wife, or have my two beautiful daughters. Perhaps I wouldn't have discovered my passion for nutrition and helping others.

There's a powerful duality to life—a yin and yang, a balance of positive and negative. It's often in how we navigate the negative, how we learn and grow from those experiences, that determines the trajectory of our lives.

Making wise choices, especially when it comes to our health and lifestyle, can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling future. It's never too late to start making those choices, to embrace the power we have to shape our own well-being.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. If you're facing your own health challenges, know that you're not alone. There is hope, there is healing, and there is a community here to support you. Together, let's embrace the power of nutrients and create a healthier, more vibrant future.