A Little History - My Celiac Disease Diagnosis

It's been a while since I had the energy or time to sit down and focus on writing or blogging, but I'm back. I also find it interesting, from a physiological perspective, that after being gluten poisoned two months ago to the day and being so inundated with sickness, pain and trying hard to feel better, along with doing more Celiac research and being so focused on my stomach, that I seemed to have needed a little break from "all things gluten free." I think that sometimes living with a chronic illness makes us much more empathetic to others needs, but in this particular instance caused me to become a bit more introverted and anti-social, just trying to salvage any and all extra energy I had, in order to "get back to normal" (whatever that means!) and back into the land of the living.

I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to so many of you who posted comments both on this site and my blog, leaving behind words of encouragement, support and many, many useful tips/products that I was scribbling down and running to the health food store to find. I am truly grateful for knowing that you are all out there...somewhere, and filled with great empathy for others. I am also taken a back by the stories of great struggle I have received from many Celiacs and undiagnosed folks, as well. It's so hard to believe that in this day and age, Celiac Disease can still wreak such havoc with so many and can go undiagnosed for so many years, leading to major health issues that go above and beyond the small intestine's villi.

I encourage any and all of you out there who are struggling with stomach issues of any kind, to impress upon your doctors the great importance of being tested for Celiac Disease...and if they appear to be non-responsive with a glazed look in their eyes, PUSH the issue. We must be advocates of our own bodies and health. Educate the doctors, if need be, but don't let your issues be dismissed. Given the vast number of unknowing Celiacs just waiting for a diagnosis, I pray we will reach a point in the very near future when this disease will receive the necessary attention it's so deserving of.

In the meantime, here's to all of you terrific and AWARE Celiacs out there, sharing your helpful bits of information and support, while educating all those who cross your path.

Here's to all of you!