Claire Ditch’s Autoimmune Story

MEET CLAIRE

Hi! I’m Claire and I live in Missouri with my husband and dog, Goose. I’m an avid cook, outdoor enthusiast and my friends consider me a bit of a hippie. I work in the corporate world in marketing, but am wrapping up my education at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition to become an IIN certified Health Coach. Due to my autoimmune story, it’s become my passion to help others heal their bodies and live their best lives by finding clarity in their mind and body.

 DIAGNOSIS

After dealing with major stress and anxiety, I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis 9 years ago. I’ve dealt with flare ups off and on for years. At my lowest point 5 years ago, I was down to 90 pounds and had developed paralyzing anxiety to the point where I was unable to leave my home. Then and there I decided to put my body first and started down the path of healing through nutrition and holistic health. While my gut was getting back on the right track, I was still dealing with excessive fatigue and sought out a functional medicine doctor who diagnosed me with Hashimoto’s, and revealed my allergies to gluten and casein. Since then I’ve completely submersed myself in holistic healing practices, take a number of supplements, and follow a Paleo diet that has healed my gut and is helping my thyroid become more balanced.

 LIFE CHANGE

While I have to deal with symptoms that aren’t so fun with my UC, the worst of it is the anxiety that has come with worrying about finding the nearest bathroom, or wondering if I can enjoy a nice meal out without having to deal with the repercussions due to my food allergies. The other main challenge I face is my energy level. I’m a very active person and am on the go all the time – it’s hard to pass on opportunities and events due to a lack of energy.

 HEALING

My main healing methods have been diet and holistic supplements. On top of that I’ve been working to make lifestyle changes to allow myself more time for self-care and healing.

 STRUGGLE

Regardless of the changes I’ve made, it can still be challenging to deal with a hidden disease. People say “oh you look fine” or “you need to eat more” or the classic “you can sleep when you’re dead” But in reality I’m fighting for my health each and every day!

 INSPIRATION

I have this verse written all over my work space and even tattoo’d on my side as a constant reminder – that while I may not physically have the strength each and every day, Christ will carry me through the darkness.

Find Claire | @peakofclarity