My Wellness Journey: A Story of Genetics, Prevention, and Empowerment
Wellness is not just about looking after your physical health; it's a holistic approach that encompasses mind, body, and spirit. My journey into wellness coaching is deeply personal—shaped by my experiences with genetics, family health history, and a proactive approach to living my best life.
Facing My Genetic Reality
Before genetic testing even entered the picture, I knew I was at a high risk for breast cancer. My maternal grandmother successfully fought breast cancer in her 60s, and my mother faced the same battle in her 70s. With this family history, it was determined that I had a 50% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
When my mom underwent genetic testing, I decided to take the plunge myself—partly because I love genetics and partly because I wanted to take control of my health. Her results came back clear, with no known mutations, but mine revealed something unexpected—a mutation on the ATM gene. This gene is associated with an increased risk of ovarian, breast, and pancreatic cancers.
The news was overwhelming. I felt a mix of fear, uncertainty, and even anger. Why me? What did this mean for my future? Learning that the gene came from my father's side of the family added another layer of complexity to my health journey. With a family history of cardiac disease and my own diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), I realized that my approach to health couldn't be passive. I needed a preventative plan that considered every aspect of my well-being.
Have you ever considered genetic testing to understand your health risks?
A Proactive Approach to Health
Armed with the knowledge from my genetic results, I made a commitment to a preventative lifestyle. I joined FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), a community that provides support and resources for those with hereditary cancer risk. Through this organization, I discovered the PREVENT clinical trial at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, which focuses on early screening for pancreatic cancer. Participating in this trial has given me peace of mind and an active role in managing my health.
Through consultations with my oncologist, geneticist, and high-risk care team, I adopted a plant-based diet rich in leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and high-antioxidant foods—particularly broccoli, kale, and berries, known for their cancer-fighting properties. Research shows that cruciferous vegetables contain sulforaphane, a compound that has been studied for its potential role in reducing cancer risk by promoting the detoxification of carcinogens (1).
Studies from the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) emphasize that diet and lifestyle choices play a significant role in cancer prevention. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fiber, and maintaining a healthy weight have been linked to lower cancer risks (2). This evidence reaffirmed my commitment to an anti-inflammatory diet and daily movement.
Want to learn more about how to incorporate preventative strategies into your life? Schedule your initial session today!
Fitness as a Form of Prevention
Exercise has always been a part of my life. As a former competitive triathlete and marathon runner, movement has been my outlet and my strength. Now, I approach fitness with a more balanced mindset—recognizing that consistency matters more than intensity. Studies from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) suggest that regular physical activity can lower the risk of breast and other cancers by helping regulate hormone levels, reducing inflammation, and improving immune function (3).
I prioritize activities that support long-term health, such as:
Strength training for bone density and muscle preservation
Yoga and stretching for flexibility and stress reduction
Daily movement through walking and mobility exercises
While I may not be logging marathon miles anymore, I strive to keep my body moving in ways that support longevity and overall well-being.
Managing IBS Through Diet and Stress Reduction
Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) has been another crucial aspect of my wellness journey. Instead of relying on medication alone, I chose to manage my symptoms through diet and stress management techniques.
Through the FODMAP elimination process, I identified fructans—found in foods like onions and garlic—as my primary trigger. Research from Monash University, which pioneered the low-FODMAP diet, has shown that this approach can significantly reduce symptoms in 75% of IBS sufferers (4). Avoiding these foods has dramatically improved my symptoms and overall quality of life.
Beyond diet, I've embraced mindfulness and meditation as powerful tools to manage stress, which plays a critical role in IBS flare-ups. The gut-brain connection is now widely recognized in scientific literature, showing that stress and mental health can directly impact digestive health (5). Working with my own coaches and mental health professionals has given me valuable strategies to support my emotional well-being, reinforcing the strong connection between stress and gut health.
What are your biggest challenges in adopting a preventative lifestyle?
Turning My Experience Into Purpose
My personal journey has led me to pursue wellness coaching, helping others take a proactive and empowered approach to their health. I understand firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate a complex medical history, balance lifestyle changes, and maintain motivation in the face of uncertainty. Whether you're looking to make small sustainable changes or overhaul your entire approach to health, I believe that wellness is about progress, not perfection.
In my coaching practice, I focus on:
Personalized Preventative Health Strategies: Helping clients develop tailored plans to manage their unique health risks.
Mind-Body Connection: Using mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Sustainable Lifestyle Changes: Encouraging achievable goals that fit into your daily life.
Empowerment Through Education: Providing knowledge and tools to help clients make informed decisions about their health.
Final Thoughts
My wellness journey has been a blend of science, self-discovery, and perseverance. I've learned that taking control of your health isn't about fear—it's about empowerment. With the right mindset, support, and strategies, we can all create a lifestyle that nurtures our unique needs and goals.
If you're ready to take charge of your health and well-being, I'm here to help guide you on your journey. Together, we can create a personalized plan that supports your health, happiness, and longevity.
Let's build a healthier future—one step at a time.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by your health journey, I can help.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your needs and goals.
