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Only 1 to 3 cases out of a million are diagnosed with Aorta Vasculitis annually in the US and Europe. And I found out recently I am one! I didn’t know how January’s tool of NOT GIVING UP would play such an essential role in my life this past month, but here’s my story!

On March 15th, while walking up the steps of the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, I felt unable to get to the top! I stopped and regained my strength to reach the top. Thankfully, I took my first Uber ride with the family to dinner because I told them I did not have the energy to walk for 15 minutes. Johanna believed me and ordered the Uber!

I am a certified personal trainer with the American Council on Exercise who teaches Healthy Lifestyle Classes at my church, Vineyard Church of Wellsboro , and I could not walk for 15 minutes! Being honest about my situation saved my life! I did not know then that my Aorta (which carries blood to the body had become inflamed by Vasculitis). Many find out they have Aorta Vasculitis because they have a heart attack or an aneurysm. I was with my grandboys and had a wonderful dinner instead of the above! LISTEN TO YOUR BODY – BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE!

The Aorta is the body’s main artery, acting as a large vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It’s the largest artery in the body and distributes blood to various organs and tissues through branches along its path.

The following Tuesday, I went to see Dr. Peter Eisenhauer at Guthrie, who said he would find the problem and, through his clinical expertise, did find it on a CAT scan. THANKFULLY, Vasculitis WAS FOUND BEFORE IT DID MAJOR DAMAGE.

I have isolated aortitis because the cause has not been found yet, and the Vasculitis is only around my Aorta. After many blood tests there is no reason for this situation.

Many began praying for me as I started this journey, and I have been spared from having serious side effects like loss of vision, jaw pain, and headaches. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing tissue damage, often with steroids or other medications.

Prednisone has been keeping me awake at night, so now foods are playing an even more critical role in my sleep! Did you know almonds provide melatonin to support sleep and are rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium? If you’re struggling with sleep, eat plenty of magnesium-rich foods. Several foods can help promote better sleep. These include those rich in tryptophan, like turkey and milk, and those containing magnesium and melatonin, such as almonds, walnuts, and kiwi. Additionally, tart cherries and oatmeal can also contribute to better sleep.

I am also using another moving-together tool to help put me in a place where I can sleep – baths! While in the bath, I enjoyed a hot cup of chamomile tea.

I have used many Movin’ Together tools while journeying back to health!

Hydrating
Breakfasting
Sleeping

Breakfasting is essential before I take the Prednisone in the morning to protect my stomach—there are side effects of medicine, but prayer’s only side effect is to draw you close to God.

I took hold of Jesus’ hand during this health journey, and He has blessed me every day! People sent food and cards. My Fitness classes, family, and friends have supported me.

Dr. Murphy, my Rheumatologist, said that the Aorta showed an inflammation effect but did not have enough to stop me from moving! I asked if I could teach my exercise classes, and he said yes. If I could ride my e-bike, he said yes! I like this doctor; with his expertise and prayer, my life is covered in grace!

I have been on Prednisone for about six weeks now and thankfully, it has REDUCED THE INFLAMMATION DRAMATICALLY! The lab report numbers are mostly back to normal! As most of you know, long-term Prednisone is not the best, so Dr. Connor Murphy, my Rheumatologist, is reducing the amount each week. He has suggested a new drug to begin at the end of the month by the name of Actemra.

There is no cure for Vasculitis, but I pray that I will go into remission and this will never bother me again!
Matthew 19:26 – Jesus looked at them and said, “With man, this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.”

I have appreciated this time out to reflect on the extraordinary life God has given me. This health trial encouraged me to consider what I am doing with my time! I asked Jesus to lead my path going forward. I am passionate about health, so I am taking more courses about the health of older adults (including me) among us!

I am grateful to my husband, John, and my daughter, Julianna, who supported me at this time! Trips to the doctor and almond butter at 2:00 am on rice cakes with apples! If Julianna heard me early in the morning, she would help cut the apple! I have gotten a LOT OF HUGS from her, too!

I wanted to go to our nephew Simeon’s wedding at the end of May in Florida, so as a step of faith, Regis, our son, bought me a plane ticket so I could spend time with him and our daughter Johanna, who were asked to play an essential part in the celebration as the family photographers! I have been packing in anticipation since he bought the ticket weeks ago!

Last but not least, my church, Vineyard of Wellsboro, brought three meals a week to bless our family. AND WHAT A BLESSING! Pastor Brett Kennedy and members of the church came to pray with me.

By faith, next month on Movin’ Together my wonderful friend Linda Stager will lead us on the Pine Creek Rail Trail Adventure!

To learn more about this rare disease, please visit the Vasculitis Foundation website at https://vasculitisfoundation.org.