The Blessing of Dis-Ease

I cried the day I learned I have Hashimoto's disease. For those unfamiliar, it's an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid.  With the thyroid managing so many systems with hormones, Hashi can play havoc in a lot of areas. In the months leading up to the diagnosis, I couldn't stand to be in my own skin. It felt like my body was falling apart and I was losing my mind. Certainly, I was relieved to finally know why my hair was falling out, my mood was so erratic, why I couldn't stay asleep...a laundry list of issues...but there it was, a life changer. I don't remember being mad at God but many times I did cry out in a breath prayer I carry with me, always, "Make it count."  And He did.

As I talked to different doctors trying to get my mind and body pointed in the right direction, I became even more worried.  With the treatment plan I was being offered, I was facing a future that would incude steroids, diet pills and anti-depressants.  NOT ONE doctor talked to me about supporting my health with dietary changes or natural alternatives. At the end of this parade of appointments, I knew one thing: As much as I could, I didn't want to have a cabinet full of drugs that I would have to manage the rest of my life. In my gut I felt surely, there was another option other than pharmaceuticals. I knew they came with their own set issues and I didn't want them to add  to my already long list of problems. As a result, my disease would become the vehicle to ignite my passion for natural health care.

(NOTE: I still partner with my doctors to define my issues, and I am open to drugs IF I need them. They're just not my first stop as a healthcare option. For example, I still take hormone help for my T3 and T4 issues but I also use a blend of lemongrass, myrrh, clove and frankincense essential oils to support the health of my thyroid.)

I started incorporating natural remedies into many areas of my life and now I teach others how to do the same thing. I am constantly in front of people I wouldn't have met otherwise and get to talk about God's provision through plant life.  I have been able to help missionaries stay healthy in the field by empowering them with essential oils. I have a greater work ethic, my education is unceasing, my family is healthier, wonderful friendships have been made and I witness healing regularly.  It's all bigger than my illness.  God took a hardship in my life and turned it into a vocation and ministry.

God makes all things COUNT and what unfolds is exactly why we praise Him in the storm:  We may begin a journey with
dis-ease but He loves us enough for it not to be the destination.  His ways are bigger than our ways.