Tell us about your journey with lupus?
My journey with lupus has become one of the greatest teachers in my life. In the beginning I did not feel this way. Receiving the news from my initial blood work that I had the beginnings of an autoimmune process was devastating. From that point forward I knew my life would never be the same.  The loss and then the rebuilding of my physical body has been one of the biggest challenges of my experience with lupus. So much of my identity, value and worth was tied to being physically fit and capable.  Learning to live with this disease has taught me how to be a better advocate for myself, listen to my body and be humbled with gratitude. These have become daily practice.

How did you hear about the Lupus Foundation and the Walk to End Lupus Now?
I heard about the walk as I became more involved with the Lupus Foundation of America. Seeking ways to build community with other lupus warriors was a big motivation to join.
The organization provides amazing tools for those living with the disease as well as those who support them. The site has wonderful resources to help me learn about symptoms common with the disease, how to stay healthy and any new developments with treatment.   The information the lupus organization shares helps to normalize my experience letting me know I am not alone in this.

Tell us about being a wellness teacher and you use that for your lupus?
Holistic healing and wellness was an integral part in my upbringing and influenced my approach to health. My career in wellness started when I completed a yoga teacher training in 2015. It was a way for me to give back to myself after experiencing burnout from a career in fashion. From there I knew I had found my path in life which led me to a licensed massage therapist where I specialize in light touch therapies.
I am so grateful for these practices: yoga, meditation and light-touch body work using Jin Shin Jyutsu, Craniosacral and Myofascial Release. They have been a part of my life for many years. Now they are my life savers helping me to heal, decrease my pain and do my best to live a “normal” life.  What I love about them is that they provide the tools to allow me to trust in the innate healing nature of my body. They quiet the chaos taking place inside. I have taught people over the years since how to do the same for themselves. It truly feels like a gift to share these practices with others to support them in their healing journey.

What are you looking forward to with this year's Virtual Walk to End Lupus Now?
I am looking forward to the continued connection with others. I’ve never been a part of a community quite in this way. It is so cool to be a part of something that feels so much bigger than me. My friends and family have blown me away with their support and enthusiasm for this fundraiser.

Any fun facts you would like to share with us?
Travel is a huge part of my life, having visited 26 countries and counting.