The post was originally shared in October of 2015, nearly one year into recovery from my pancreatectomy/auto islet cell transplant, a huge operation with a 3-5 year estimate for recovery to find a new normal in a permanently changed body. This was right at two years after my Whipple and all the hell that followed… pancreatitis that quickly turner chronic, 300+ days without eating a single … Continue reading Don’t Give Up — Re-sharing words from three years ago

In Part 1 of this series I shared a bit of my story of surviving pancreatic cancer, chronic pancreatitis, major surgeries, gastroparesis, bowel dysmotility and what the recovery process has been/is still like for me. I also expanded on one approach which has probably helped me the MOST in managing and treating my severe digestive disorders. If you haven’t already, go back and read part … Continue reading Part II: How to treat + manage severe digestive disorders with diet // the pureed/liquid approach that saved me

This is Part #1 of a multi-part series on healing and managing severe GI diseases with diet. Please keep in mind that every person is different and I am sharing MY unique experiences. I am not a doctor or healthcare practitioner and I cannot diagnose/treat anyone. Today’s post isn’t only applicable to those of us suffering with severe digestive disorders such as gastroparesis, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, … Continue reading How to treat + manage severe digestive disorders with diet // gastroparesis, Crohn’s, colitis, constipation, etc.

As I recently read the 11th chapter of John, my heart woke up to new truths. Though I’ve known the story of Lazarus since I was a small child, reading the words felt different this time. That’s one thing I love about God’s word: it’s timeless, and each time we read His words we extract something different and perfect for whatever we are facing that … Continue reading Awaken out of the grave: lessons from Lazarus, John 11

Today’s post is a fun change-up from my usual content. I am very proud to introduce you to my talented friend, Kristin Shonkwiler, the author of “The Truth Behind the Lie.” My friendship with Kristin began our junior year of high school while attending the Chrysalis retreat together. After a few years apart we re-kindled our relationship this Fall and I believe God has blessed … Continue reading Interview with upcoming author Kristin Shonkwiler + where to buy her book!

  Ahhh the beach! Such a magical, relaxing, peaceful, HOT, & wonderful place. We recently spent a week in Folly Beach, S.C. with Tyler’s family, filled with mainly time spent on the beach or time spent admiring the stunning view from our rental house. Everyone in the family had a book (or a few) they were engulfed in while hanging out on the beach. My … Continue reading Lessons learned from “Kisses from Katie” & reflection at the beach

And just like that it has been almost a month since I last blogged, and what a busy, unexpected month it has been. I have several topics I want to write about and I have, already, written the post for them in my head. But for today I simply want to share a bit of a life update in case you’re wondering where I have … Continue reading A life update // where I’ve been & how I’m feeling