Maria’s Healing Journey

I want to share a deeply personal chapter of my health journey, as I’ve recently been diagnosed with a rare chronic condition. While I’d much rather not own this diagnosis and wish it were not part of my story, I am choosing to step up and embrace the path to healing and well-being. It has taken me some time to decide when and how to share this with the wonderful people in my life, and although I initially wanted to wait until I had a clear therapeutic plan in place, I now feel confident in the decisions I’m making—though I know they will evolve over time.

Earlier this fall, after experiencing a series of baffling symptoms, I underwent a variety of medical tests. The results led to a diagnosis of Essential Thrombocythemia (ET). At first, I was shocked, confused, and frankly, had never heard of this condition. ET is a rare bone marrow mutation that causes the production of excessive platelets. The initial test revealed this as the only abnormal result, but further investigation, including a bone marrow biopsy (which was definitely not a fun test!), confirmed the mutation deep in my marrow. Fortunately, it’s being caught early, with less than 7% of my marrow involved. While ET is chronic, non-familial, and classified as a rare blood cancer, I am thankful that it is not leukemia, and the likelihood of it evolving into leukemia is low, fingers crossed.

This diagnosis answers a lot of questions I’ve had over the last several years—like why I’ve had unusual headaches, energy swings, delayed healing from cuts, blurry vision, and why my pulse rate jumps up so easily. The prognosis, though manageable, suggests a typical life expectancy, with the need to stay on top of potential complications, such as heart attack or stroke, which are the most serious risks.
After much thought, I’ve decided to take a holistic, multifaceted approach to my treatment—incorporating both naturopathy and pharmaceutical medicine. I've always leaned toward a nature-based lifestyle, focusing on practices that support longevity and positive health. I’m hopeful that by blending conventional medicine with natural therapies, I can work through the limiting beliefs often associated with modern treatments and find my greatest health and healing. To guide me, I’ve found an excellent oncologist and a wonderful naturopath, both of whom respect each other’s approaches. In addition, I am integrating other modalities and practitioners into my healing journey. I am already adding new yummy tools to my healing and knowledge base. I am also incredibly supported by my loving husband Victor, family, and close friends, all of whom have been a huge help. This is the most important.

One of the concepts I coined years ago is “Get Juicy Now.” At first, after the whirlwind of symptoms and diagnosis, I felt defeated, fearful (and still do at times), sad, and definitely not juicy. But as I’ve increased my meditation time, slowed down my busy life, and spent more time in nature, I’ve come to a deeper understanding. To truly embody “Get Juicy Now,” I need to love and accept myself not just when I’m feeling wonderful, but also during the difficult, painful, and sick days when I can barely get out of bed. In fact, my real goal now is to discover the deeper depth of my juiciness—to recalibrate, refresh, rejuvenate, and reignite my health and healing as I continue on this journey.
I’m sharing this with all of you who care to know and to ask for your good thoughts, positive energy, affirmations, wisdom, and most of all, your love.

I will be posting updates on this special page we created to share my journey, and I would love to hear from all of you.

Thank you for your support, and cheers to a bright and healthy 2025!

My Sankalpa for 2025: I am Healthy and Fully Healed