This week we celebrate Kelly. Another long time friend from my high school days. She has like me been on a journey to learn more about the power of food for good health and healing. She has a son with MS and has learned that pharmaceuticals that can be more poison than healing with chronic illness. Learn more about her story below.
1: If you could have a gigantic billboard anywhere with anything on it, what would it say and why?
I would love for a giant billboard to read, “Food DOES make a difference! Eat More Plants!”
2: In the last five years what have you become better at saying no to?
In recent years, I’ve become much better at saying no to foods that don’t promote health. I can easily walk by junk food without feeling the need to eat it.
3: What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the "real world"?
Take time to be in the moment and enjoy your youth. While I believe a career is important, find a healthy balance between your work life and your personal life. Trust me, in hindsight; you will be thankful!
4: What is one of the best or most worthwhile investments you've ever made? (it doesn't need be financial in nature)
My best and most worthwhile investment has definitely been in my children and family. Loving and nurturing them is what makes me the happiest.
5: In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life?
As you have probably figured out by now, a healthy diet is extremely important to me. Nine years ago, at the age of 20, our son Austin was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. His presenting symptom was something called Optic Neuritis, which has left him legally blind. After watching him struggle with several prescribed, and poisonous in my opinion, pharmaceuticals, I began to research how important a healthy diet is for MS sufferers. Seven years ago, our entire family went vegan to support him and it has made a huge difference for all of us! It truly has been an incredible, positive journey, and we are so grateful.
6: How has a failure, or apparent failure set you up for later success? Do you have a favorite failure of yours? My favorite failure was when I didn’t get the initial job that I interviewed for at the company that I currently work for, Vitamix. I knew that I wanted to work for this company, and remained steadfast in my pursuit. Later, a much better opportunity presented itself, and I secured the position. I’m so thankful that I didn’t get that initial job!
7: What purchase of $100 or less has most positively impacted your life in the last six months or in recent memory?
The Instant Pot is the first item that comes to mind when I think of a positive purchase that costs less than $100. If you don’t have one, make the investment. You won’t be disappointed.
8: When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I have learned over the years that when I begin to feel overwhelmed and unfocused, I need to decline extracurricular activities and commitments and allow myself to have downtime. It’s usually a sign that I’m overcommitted.
9: What is the book (or books) you've given most as a gift and why? Or what are one to three books that have greatly influenced your life?
The book that has most influenced my life is the Holy Bible. I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thank him daily for the abundance of blessings in my life.
10: What is one piece of advice you would give to a woman that you wish you knew earlier in life?
The one piece of advice that I would give a young woman today would be to remain true to yourself and your beliefs.
11: What do you think about the theory of "the love of your life", what does that phrase me to you?
I believe that you can have more than one true love in a lifetime. What makes the difference, in my opinion, is dedication to the person that you love. That’s what defines true love to me.
12: What is something that you would find most helpful in your life right now? (what would be the best problem solved for you)
I want to see a complete cure for MS! I believe it’s out there with all of my heart.
Thank you Kelly for sharing a portion of your life with us. Food is indeed powerful medicine!
XO
Titanium