About Inside Matters

After completing my Physical Education degree in my 20s, my career path unexpectedly led me into project management and community development, both in New Zealand and internationally. Despite excelling in sports during my teenage years, my late teens and twenties were marked by health challenges. Struck by a viral infection at 20, I found myself bedridden for over three weeks, and never fully recovered. Despite numerous medical and specialist consultations, no diagnosis or cause could be determined. Driven in nature, I pushed through the symptoms, to carry on with life, albeit unable to participate in sports again until my early 30s. 

 

I have endured three significant system crashes that left me unable to work, with the most recent occurring in 2018. It was during this period that I was introduced to a holistic general practitioner, leading to the diagnosis of an underlying genetic disorder, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). This diagnosis also shed light on other symptoms and led to a  further diagnosis of Mast Cell Activation (an immune cell disorder) and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, often referred to as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Suddenly, the symptoms I had experienced in my twenties began to make sense, as EDS, primarily recognized for joint hypermobility, can also disrupt the gut and cardiovascular systems.

 

Knowledge is power and having the diagnosis has allowed me to connect the dots on all my symptoms and find better ways to manage and improve my health. 

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Navigating my own chronic illness ignited a deep interest and passion for natural treatments and holistic well-being. With these illnesses often overlooked within mainstream medical system, my journey has involved extensive research and experimentation with various treatments and lifestyle adjustments to aid my recovery. Many of the strategies that have proven effective for me fall under alternative therapies or unfunded medicines, often necessitating access to specialized doctors or practitioners familiar with these conditions. Navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, including public, private, and alternative avenues, has become a project in itself. Through sharing my experiences and insights, I aspire to offer support and guidance to others facing similar challenges.

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My journey with essential oils started in 2018 when a friend introduced me to the therapeutic power of these natural plant extracts and I realised they did much more than smell nice! My exploration into the benefits of infrared sauna led me to discover red light therapy, and now, I regularly incorporate all three of these complementary modalities into my wellness routine.

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During my career I worked on leadership development projects in parts of Africa, Russia, China, and Brazil, and spent 4 months volunteering with an organisation in Tanzania to provide basic needs and support to children living on the streets. On my return to NZ, I worked for Youthline Auckland and in Community Development with Auckland Council, until my most recent crash.

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All these experiences have humbled and motivated me to always work in a way where I can make a difference in others' lives. I am now working towards my qualification as a health and nutrition coach, while also volunteering on local community/school boards and coaching sport at my son's school.