Hey there, and welcome to Resilient Roads!
I’m so glad you’re here. Today, I want to share a piece of my story—a chapter of resilience, learning, and the unexpected ways we find strength in the face of challenges. If you’ve ever felt like diverticulitis has taken over your life, or if you’re constantly worrying about the next flare, know that you’re not alone. This one’s for you.
The Turning Point
There was a time when my world was colored by the limitations of diverticulitis. Flare-ups came unannounced, leaving me drained, frustrated, and questioning my choices. The fear of eating anything ‘risky’—anything that might send me spiraling—hung over every meal. I remember a particularly tough day after my third colonoscopy. I was just told that despite everything—antibiotics, restricted diets, and fiber—I had more diverticuli throughout my colon. Surgery was on the horizon, and I thought, “Is this really my only option?”
But something within me refused to accept that. I didn’t want my life to revolve around medical appointments, pills, and surgical consultations. That was the day I began to rebuild—not just my gut, but my approach to life. I started small, experimenting with foods, pacing my fiber intake, and listening to my body in a way I hadn’t before. Gradually, I crafted my 4 Stages of Eating for Diverticulitis, an approach that I now share with others who, like me, want to find their own way to balance, freedom, and peace.
The Journey to Balance
As I developed this approach, I learned a lot about resilience. At first, it was about reducing flare-ups and easing pain, but over time, it became so much more. I realized that true resilience isn’t about never feeling pain; it’s about finding a way forward when pain comes knocking. Each of the 4 stages became a stepping stone—a way to nurture my body in times of rest, to repair it through gentle foods, to replenish it with nourishing nutrients, and, finally, to build a life that feels whole again.
These stages weren’t just physical milestones; they were emotional ones, too. I had to let go of old fears, trust the process, and learn that healing is never a straight line. It’s full of curves, lessons, and those small but mighty wins.
Practical Tips from My Journey
Each step of the way, I found tools that made the process gentler, kinder, and real. Here’s a peek into some of those tips that helped me, which I hope can be a guiding light for you too:
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Hydration is Everything: As I learned to up my fiber intake, I found that staying hydrated was more than a recommendation; it was an essential foundation. My water bottle became a constant companion, helping my body handle fiber and supporting every stage of my healing journey.
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Food Journaling to Build Confidence: Logging what I ate wasn’t just about tracking meals—it was a map. I started to notice patterns, pinpoint triggers, and celebrate foods that felt good. If you’re starting out or feeling lost, try jotting down what you eat and how you feel. Over time, it’s empowering to look back and see the progress.
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Going Slow: It’s tempting to jump back into all the foods we love, but I learned that patience is a game-changer. By reintroducing foods gradually, I was able to avoid setbacks and build confidence. Now, I encourage everyone I work with to approach this journey as a marathon, not a sprint.
The Road Ahead
Today, I can honestly say I’m living flare-free. It wasn’t a quick fix, and it wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. There’s so much I want to share about this journey—how it’s transformed not just my health, but my outlook on life. Diverticulitis may be part of my story, but it doesn’t define me—and it doesn’t have to define you, either.
In the upcoming issues of Resilient Roads, I’ll be diving deeper into each of these stages, sharing not only the “how-to’s” but also the heart of what I learned along the way. I’m here to remind you that, with a little patience and the right tools, you can turn the challenges into strengths, too.
So here’s to resilience, healing, and all the roads we travel. Thank you for being here, and for trusting me to walk alongside you on this path.
Until next time,
Robin
P.S. If you're ready to take the next step, explore the 4 Stages of Eating and get the support you need inside the Diverticulitis Rescue Yourself Membership. Join our community and start building a flare-free life with guidance, resources, and encouragement every step of the way.
Curious about what’s the best fit for you? Let’s chat! Book a free 15-minute Clarity Call, and we’ll figure out your next steps together.
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