After trying several OTC remedies and having steroid injections into my scalp without much success, I opted to try the JAK Inhibitor, Olumiant. It worked great for ten months but then it slowed working and I began getting bald spots again. I have lost about 75-80% of my hair as of now. I stayed on Olumiant for three more months, until I got a sinus infection and bronchitis in December. When on a JAK, it’s recommended to stop the medication until your sickness passes as it suppresses your immune response.

Since getting sick and medication was no longer helping, I decided to try a more natural approach again. That December illness took weeks to get rid of. I’ve been eating mostly anti-inflammatory foods and homemade, gut cleansing juices and foods. So far, it’s not helping my hair follicles.

There are not enough hats to hide under! I don’t know how to feel comfortable in public. I feel best with my winter hats on while doing errands. I can’t wear them indoors, like at restaurants and such. I can’t wear them when warm weather is back. I feel like hiding. I’m self-conscious and embarrassed to work on my hair clients. I feel sad and frustrated.

I initially blamed my Alopecia and Hashimoto’s, (yes, I have that too) solely on the COVID vaccine. Upon learning and reading about the immune system and how to heal the body naturally, I realize that stress probably played a big part in why my immune system went into overdrive after getting that 3rd shot. I had been severely stressed both physically and mentally from 2016-2019 or so, in dealing with my parents. Specifically my mother. That’s a story that is now past, so there is no need to explain. Stress on your body and mind can weaken your immune system among other disease. It puts your body in dis-ease, fight or flight mode. Once disease kicks in, it’s difficult to reverse or heal. It’s not impossible in all instances, but difficult.

Back in October, my dermatologist suggested a different JAK due to it solely focusing on alopecia, unlike Olumiant which helps rheumatoid arthritis, now COVID! and Alopecia. I said I’d think about it because it’s still a JAK and they come with some risks, like all medications. This newer one is called Litfulo. Yesterday, after careful consideration and reading about it, I’ve decided to give it a try. In fact, I went to God for guidance, which is something I’m doing more often. He will guide you, just listen. My goal is still going to be gut health and supporting my microbiome. I’ve always eaten clean and wholesome since being on my own. Adding this microbiome support will surely be a benefit that I will be sure to share it with others.

My heart has always been in natural healing, wholesome eating and teaching others that cooking from scratch can be as quick as cooking prepared foods. I’ve come to know what peaceful living feels like and I want to share that with anyone who wants it too!

Life throws curveballs, how you handle what comes at you, makes a difference. I’m no longer the victim of circumstances. I’ve learned what I can handle and what to say no to. I’m a recovering people pleaser. Even Jesus said no when He needed to, see John 11:1-7, and Matthew 12:46-50.

Don’t give up, don’t give in to an unwell body, mind or spirit. Do whatever it takes to be well. Reach out if you have similar or different experiences that you’d like to talk about or get help with. Email me HERE.

Here are just a few photos of what my hair looks like today. Updates of progress will follow.