Reversing Rheumatoid Arthritis Naturally: One Year Later

The journey to heal naturally from a chronic condition can be both challenging and profoundly rewarding. After being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis last summer, I made the life-changing decision to follow a natural healing protocol based on Penny Kelly's work rather than turning to conventional medications. Now, approaching the one-year mark of this journey, I'm sharing the remarkable transformation I've experienced.

My healing path wasn't linear. Around December—six months into the process—I hit what I now recognize as a predictable healing crisis. My symptoms temporarily intensified despite my disciplined approach, leaving me discouraged. What I didn't realize then was that this difficult period represented my body actively detoxifying and rebuilding. Pushing through this challenging phase led to dramatic improvements in mobility, energy, and overall quality of life. Simple tasks that had become painful ordeals—opening car doors, climbing stairs, even cleaning my home—gradually became effortless again.

Perhaps the most eye-opening aspect of this journey has been realizing how we normalize declining health. When comprehensive blood work in March showed my inflammation markers still at 14 (normal range is 1-3) despite significant improvement, I was forced to confront just how severely inflamed my body must have been before. We adjust our definition of "normal" as our health deteriorates, only seeking help when symptoms become truly debilitating. This gradual normalization means many of us are accepting chronic inflammation and pain as inevitable aspects of aging when they're actually signs of imbalance that can be addressed.

The dietary changes required for healing—eliminating all grains, coffee, and inflammatory foods—highlighted how deeply unhealthy eating patterns are embedded in our culture. School vending machines generate $200,000 annually selling processed foods to students, while staff appreciation events center around pizza, donuts, and fast food. Swimming against this cultural current requires conviction and a willingness to be "the one who always says no to free food."

Today, I'm walking miles daily, regaining my social life, and experiencing a renewed zest for living that extends far beyond physical wellness. I view this healing journey as my investment in ensuring vibrant, independent golden years rather than a future dependent on medications and mobility aids. The returns on this investment—energy, joy, freedom from pain, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to my community—are immeasurable. If something in your body is trying to get your attention through discomfort or fatigue, consider it an invitation to investigate rather than normalize. Your future self will thank you for investing in your health today.