From Bedridden With CFS to Power Walks On The Beach
BACKGROUND
Name: Alessia
Age: 56
Length of Illness: Over 12 years
Prior Life: Alessia was a businesswoman from Perth, Australia, leading an active, outgoing life filled with work and travel.
CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME HISTORY
Onset: Alessia’s CFS symptoms gradually worsened over time, leading to severe debilitation.
Severity: At her worst, she was bedbound for about six months, unable to move, walk, or even turn in bed. Her life was reduced to barely managing an hour’s work and then being bedridden for the rest of the week.
Symptoms: Unbearable pain throughout her body, extreme sensitivity to light and sound, temperature issues, muscle weakness, severe cognitive impairments like memory loss and difficulty speaking.
TREATMENTS
Solutions Tried: Alessia sought help from over 15 specialists, engaged with health gurus, tried Chinese herbal medicine, naturopathy, brain training, stem cell treatments, consulted an immunologist in Sydney, visited numerous doctors, underwent hypnotherapy, and used a Rife machine. She estimates spending over $120,000 in her quest for healing.
Program Participation: Alessia joined the Recovery Jumpstart program, motivated by the personal recovery stories of the coaches and the program’s focus on mind-body healing.
MAJOR WINS
First Beach Walk: After 12 years, Alessia experienced a transformative and emotional first walk on the beach, signifying a major milestone in her recovery.
Power Walking: Progressed to a 40-minute power walk, marking a significant improvement in physical ability and endurance.
Social Engagements: Returned to social life, including lunches with friends and family, reflecting a recovery of social independence.
KEYS TO RECOVERY
Mindset Shift: Emphasis on the transformation from within, focusing on rewiring the brain and changing internal narratives.
Support Structure: Regular interaction with coaches and a supportive community played a crucial role in her recovery.
Customized Plan: Personalized plans adapted to her capabilities and progress, gradually increasing physical activities and managing symptoms.
Empathy and Understanding: The program provided an environment where Alessia felt understood and supported, crucial for people with CFS who often face disbelief and dismissal.
CURRENT STATE
Alessia is actively participating in life, embracing activities she couldn’t imagine doing before. Her journey is ongoing, with continued improvement and engagement in the Recovery Jumpstart program.
“I just can’t take the smile off my face. I’m walking around… It feels like being reborn again, having a second chance in life.”
Alessia’s story is a powerful testament to the potential for recovery and regaining quality of life after years of battling severe Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Her journey highlights the importance of mindset, individualized support, and a holistic approach to treatment.
