Twenty years ago, while playing sports with my kids on a summer day, I pulled my back. At first, I didn't think much of the injury, but by the week's end, the pain intensified and other joints started to flare up. The situation quickly escalated when a simple movement caused my knee to feel a sharp pain, leading to severe swelling that left me bedridden for the entire summer.

As my condition worsened, doctors initially suspected oligoarthritis, but further tests revealed a more serious issue: psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune disease causing joint swelling and pain. The diagnosis was shocking, especially during a challenging period in my personal life, including a recent divorce and the stress of caring for two young children. My inability to manage daily tasks led me to quit my teaching job, deepening the sense of despair.

Seeking relief, I began treatment with methotrexate, a powerful immunosuppressant. The medication brought harsh side effects, including toxic impacts on my liver and the need for frequent blood tests. Over the next thirteen years, my condition fluctuated, sometimes worsening to the point of affecting my eyesight, and the constant medication left me feeling trapped in a cycle of pain and dependency.

Despite my rheumatologist dismissing the connection between diet and my arthritis, I remained curious. Research led me to explore how certain foods seemed to trigger my joint pain. An elimination diet revealed that foods like red meat, eggs, cheese, and stone fruits exacerbated my symptoms. This discovery ignited my interest in plant-based diets and their potential impact on autoimmune conditions.

Motivated by my findings and my love for animals and the environment, I adopted an ethical vegan lifestyle, excluding all animal products for ethical reasons while still consuming some processed vegan foods. This shift not only aligned with my values but also began to positively influence my health. Over time, I noticed a remarkable improvement in my condition, allowing me to reduce my medication significantly.

With dedication to a whole-food plant-based diet, I achieved remission, ultimately discontinuing medication entirely. This transformation enabled me to reclaim my life—running marathons and engaging actively in communities like Vegan Runners. Today, I serve as an ambassador for Running on Plants, inspiring others with my story of overcoming chronic pain through diet. My journey from debilitating arthritis to vibrant health stands as a testament to the power of nutrition and perseverance.