Mel's Medical Journey

When the pandemic shut down the world in March of 2020, I had just returned home (as scheduled) and didn't know when I'd get back to my people in Kenya.  I decided I would try to make the most of my time.  I would work on the organization's social media presence, I would work on my spiritual growth, and I would get healthier.  I had become more and more tired over the previous year or two.  I didn't know if it was all the travel or the time changes or what, but now I had time to work on it!  

I worked on it alone for a couple of months.  I've done it before - just decrease calories and increase exercise.  Ummm...nope!  It wasn't working.  After a few months, I decided that I needed more help, so I decided to take part in a 6-week intense crossfit program.  In those 6 weeks, I worked out 36 times and followed their eating plan religiously (except for the one biscuit I ate to celebrate the sale of my house :) ).  I felt better, but I wasn't seeing much change in my body.  And...the scale proved it.  Who does crossfit consistently and doesn't see the benefit? I guess...me. :/ 

I decided it was time to consult a medical professional.  Shortly thereafter, I was diagnosed with adrenal dysfunction.  My understanding of this condition was that my body had been stuck in a fight-or-flight state physically for years (even if I hadn't felt it emotionally).  This had caused my adrenal glands to shut down and my cortisol to go through the roof.  I started fighting this new battle.  Unfortunately, that medical professional was not able to help me much and I've spent the last year or so trying to learn more about my condition and treatments and also trying to find someone who could help.  

This past summer was an amazing summer of ministry but my toughest physically.  My body would literally shut down at times due to the adrenal dysfunction.  It was scary and frustrating.  This showed me that this was something I needed to take very seriously.

Well...I think I've finally found the right medical care!  There's a doctor in Minnesota that has helped a close family member with the same issue that I'm having with much success.  In my initial testing with him, he actually diagnosed more issues and was able to give me the bigger picture of what was going on in my body.  The fight-or-flight response was truly the culprit, but it has affected more than my adrenal glands.  From my hormones to my digestive system, there is a lot that needs help getting back on track.

This week (8/16/21), I'm restarting my journey to being healthy...from the bottom up through my new doctor's treatment program.  Unfortunately, this treatment is not inexpensive.  I was not in favor of asking for help financially until several of my friends reminded me that my health directly affects how well I can do ministry. So...this is me humbly requesting a one-time gift to help me raise the $4000 for these next 6 months of treatment.  In response, I promise to work my hardest at following the plan and getting my body back on track.  Will you partner with me in this?  I'd love any support you can share with me for these next months - financial, prayer, and encouragement.  I'm going to need them all!  Thanks so much!