Embracing My Hashimoto's Diagnosis: A Journey of Healing and Future Plans

When I first heard the term "Hashimoto's," it felt like an unknown world. At that moment, it was just another medical term thrown around in casual conversations about health. However, this diagnosis quickly became a pivotal part of my life, guiding me on an unexpected journey toward healing and self-discovery. In this blog post, I want to share my experience with discovering Hashimoto's, the steps I've taken since then, and my goals for the future.

The Diagnosis

My journey started with a cascade of baffling symptoms. I felt constantly fatigued, gained weight despite maintaining a healthy diet, and suffered from brain fog that made focusing a challenge. After many months of feeling off, I decided to see my doctor. A few blood tests later, I was confronted with the diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid gland.

Initially, the news felt overwhelming. While I had heard of thyroid problems, I had no idea how they could alter my life. My doctor explained that my immune system was mistakenly attacking the thyroid, leading to its underactivity. This realization tied together my fatigue and weight gain but also raised numerous questions about managing my condition effectively.

Understanding Hashimoto's

Hashimoto's is more common than many think, impacting approximately 14 million people in the U.S. alone. The condition can lead to fatigue, weight gain, depression, and sensitivity to cold. When I was first diagnosed, it was 2020 and when the world shut down, so did I.

My Journey Since Diagnosis

After my diagnosis, I saw multiple different care providers and was given information that was inconsistent and frustrating. I had doctors telling me I didn't have Hashimoto's and I was just "getting older" and experiencing a slower metabolism and I had doctors telling me I should eat maximum 1,200 calories a day and as soon as I stopped feeling hungry, I should reduce my total caloric intake even more.

Hearing such conflicting information and being provided with impossible guidance, I chose the easy route and to ignore my autoimmune disease and continue to live my life as I was - not caring about calories, diet, etc. I continued to workout consistently in hopes that it would mitigate the weight gain. However, after 5 years of not being happy with myself, I decided to make a change.

When I first began this journey, I struggled to find helpful information online, I want to share my dietary changes that work for me, fun recipes I create, lifestyle changes I find effective, supplements I enjoy, and more so in the future, if someone is faced with a similar experience, they know they are not alone.

Future Plans

As I look ahead, I have several goals in mind. First, educating myself about Hashimoto's and autoimmune health will be priority. Knowledge is power, and I believe that staying informed will enable me to make better health choices.

I also plan to set and uphold a healthy lifestyle. This includes sticking to my dietary changes, staying active, and prioritizing self-care. I want to explore new forms of exercise, like yoga and hiking, beneficial for both my physical health and mental well-being.

Moreover, I aspire to share my journey with others. Whether through blogging, speaking opportunities, or social media, I want to raise awareness about Hashimoto's and support those facing similar challenges. By sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire others to take charge of their health and find the support they need.

A New Chapter in Health

Finding out I had Hashimoto's marked a turning point in my life. Although it initially felt daunting, it will now set me on a path of healing and self-discovery. Through education, lifestyle changes, and creating a support network, I will learn to manage my condition while embracing my journey.

Looking forward, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I am committed to my health and well-being and eager to share my experiences with others. If you or someone you know is navigating a similar path, remember that you are not alone. Together, we can embrace our diagnoses and work toward a healthier future.