Every month, TLR hosts a special Thank God It’s Friday (TGIF) event, a chance for members to share their unique skills, stories, and knowledge. The most recent TGIF featured an amazing talk from our dear Joanna that shatters the one-size-fits-all health myths and celebrates the beauty of our individuality.
Let’s journey back to the year 1989, when I made my debut in the land of Poland.
Born into a country grappling with the aftermath of communism’s fall, my early years were marred by a broken medical system and chronic illness. Despite being surrounded by doctors, my health remained elusive, and I found myself trapped in a cycle of sickness and despair.
My family doctor was a very big guy who smoked cigarettes in his office. And whenever he would just see me walking through the door, he would just give me the same antibiotic. Just by looking at my face.
So, of course, I became immune to those antibiotics, and nothing would help. I was pretty miserable for most of my childhood. This continued until I went to university. I started having more and more health issues. I would just go from one doctor to another and just kept receiving antibiotics and painkillers and other medication that didn’t help me.
Our dear Joanna in the middle of her captivating and intensely personal TGIF talk. Pic: Adriana Catalina Marijuan Rodriguez
A Turning Point
Later, I experienced a turning point when I met one particular doctor. She sat down with me for an hour and interviewed me about all of my health experiences. It was the first time that someone had truly listened.
She gave me a lot of dietary recommendations. I couldn’t eat lactose, gluten, or sugar. She also gave me herbs and vitamins.
Sceptical yet desperate for relief, I took a leap of faith – and it changed my life. Within months, I experienced a miraculous transformation, bidding farewell to chronic headaches and embracing a newfound vitality.
It’s true – our Joanna is the embodiment of vitality around the office! Pic: Adriana Catalina Marijuan Rodriguez
The Pursuit of Knowledge
Fuelled by curiosity, I delved into the intricacies of health and wellness, immersing myself in medical literature and scientific research. With each discovery, I unearthed valuable insights into the complex interplay between diet, lifestyle, and overall well-being.
Armed with knowledge, I embarked on a mission to empower others to take control of their health and live their best lives.
All of the lovely members who showed up for Joanna’s amazing talk. Can you spot yourself in the crowd?! Pic: Adriana Catalina Marijuan Rodriguez
Twists and Turns
Amidst this period of personal and professional growth, life took an unexpected turn. Invitations to weddings in India and Mexico sparked a series of events that would alter the course of my journey. Despite initial laughter at a friend’s mother’s seemingly outlandish advice to find love and start a family in Mexico, fate had other plans. Against all odds, I found myself following her whimsical directive, embarking on a whirlwind romance that culminated in marriage and motherhood.
However, returning to Poland after this whirlwind adventure brought its own set of challenges. Battling postpartum stress, weight loss, and a resurgence of health issues, I found myself at a crossroads. Determined to reclaim my well-being, I made the life-changing decision to move to Malaga, accompanied by my son Nicholas.
Despite the initial hardships of relocation and ongoing health struggles, my integration into The Living Room’s community provided a much-needed support system and renewed sense of belonging.
TLR Family members Hector and Joanna – one of the many friendships that have formed in TLR! Pic: Adriana Catalina Marijuan Rodriguez
Understanding My Genetic Blueprint
It was amidst this backdrop of self-discovery and healing that I confronted the mystery of my persistent health challenges.
Through extensive testing and consultation with dedicated healthcare professionals, I finally received a diagnosis: a connective tissue disorder with a genetic basis.
Armed with this newfound understanding, I embarked on a journey of targeted interventions and personalised care, navigating the complexities of managing a chronic condition with resilience and determination.
TLR Family member Dora and our friend Anais checking out the handy additional resources Joanna handed out during her talk. Pic: Adriana Catalina Marijuan Rodriguez
Embracing Individuality
My journey so far has taught me a fundamental truth: that wellness is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Each of us is unique, with our own genetic blueprint and life experiences shaping our individual health needs.
As advocates for holistic wellness, it is imperative that we embrace this diversity and champion the principles of personalised care and self-empowerment.
As I reflect on everything that led me here today, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the blessings received. May my story serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who dare to embark on the path to wellness.
Together, let us forge ahead with courage and conviction, united in our pursuit of vibrant health and abundant joy.
About Joanna
Our dear member Joanna, who has been with TLR since February 2022, describes herself as a Holistic Life Coach with a rich background as Technology Project Manager, and a co-founder of a mobile app, Holistiq.Life.
Joanna skilfully blends her personal journey through life and health struggles with her professional expertise, offering a deeply empathetic, authentic and insightful approach to wellness.
To connect with Joanna professionally, go to www.joannaempowers.com or follow her on Instagram via @joanna_empowers.
To read more blog posts by TLR members, check out our blog feed here. You can also click here to learn more about TLR subscriptions.
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