1 It's All About The Journey Created by Bonnie Potts ©2013

2 My Mission Life is a journey, each of us touching the lives of others. This is the story of my journey, with the hope it will make a difference to those who read it and apply it. A new path for them to travel and begin their own journey. EVERY LONG JOURNEY BEGINS WITH ONE SINGLE STEP !

3 The Journey Begins My journey began in 1998 when I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 37. Two years later I would also add Fibromyalgia to that diagnosis. I was given several prescription medications in the hopes of putting these diseases, at the least, in remission. October of 2012 would become the most devastating time in my life. I was on a self- destructive path, which would take me on a part of this journey that would not be pleasant. I had given up on life. I convinced myself I would never be NORMAL again. I would never look normal again, feel normal again nor live normal again. I indulged in mostly sugar treats and sodas, convincing myself these would satisfy my ever destructive spirit, be my comfort, and that I could stop anytime I wanted. But I didn't want to stop. The path I was determined to be on was one of self-destruction, a deliberate choice I had made.

4 Blood Test Results - October 2012

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6 The first week of January 2013, I could not walk without assisstance. I became bound to a walker as it became my best friend. I went to the doctor, who performed blood work, and also referred me to a Neurologist for possible neuropathy. The blood tests revealed a high blood glucose level and poor kidney funtion. I HAD LITERALLY EATEN MYSELF INTO A SUGAR INDUCED NEUROPATHY & POSSIBLE PRE- DIABETES. The doctor prescribed a fairly new drug to help with the neuropathy, but after reading the side effects I became concerned about the safety of this drug. (It amazes me how I was so concerned about the side effects of this drug yet not concerned about the side effects of my unhealthy eating habits). I began an intense search into herbs and supplements in hope of finding an alternative source of management of this disease.

7 Blood Test Results: January 2013

8 Blood Test Results: July 2013 My blood glucose levels are normal. My kidney function tests are normal.

9 I am now Neuropathy free. I am now able to exercise including, power walking and yoga. I believe we are all here to touch the lives of others. BUT I believe we must start with ourself in order to be able to help others.We are given these mortal bodies to live in and we are responsible for every action used for them or against them. YOU are the purpose this book is being written. YOU are the reason I've been called to walk this journey. And believe me, IT'S ALL ABOUT THE JOURNEY ! The Results

10 How Did It All Come Together ? Making a lifestyle change in eating habits Including an all natural, organic & GMO free diet Proper use of herbs & supplements Getting the recommended hours of sleep

11 How To Get Started List your diseases List your medications Determine which foods are your trigger foods Determine which herbs & supplements are right for you Take a good multivitamin daily Drink plenty of water Develop an exercise plan to fit your ability Set a goal

12 Food Choices Determine your food allergies The most common alleriges to food are: Gluten, Wheat, Dairy, Peanuts & Soy Food allergies can cause "Allergic Reactions" increasing pain and inflammation when ingested Try to buy Organic when possible This is one way to make sure what you are eating does not contain any GMO derivitives, artificial ingredients or pesticides ALWAYS read labels Just because it says "All Natural" does not mean it is healthy. There are hidden derivatives Look for products that display "Verified non-GMO"

13 Herbs & Supplements There are many herbs & supplements widely available that will help with certain diseases. Determine which will benefit your particular diseases Always check for interactions between your prescribed medications and the herbs & supplement you need If in doubt, check with your doctor for interactions Take herbs & supplements at the same time each day and try not to miss any doses. (It takes time for herbs & supplements to become effective, therefore, missed doses will remarkably reduce how effective they will be)

14 Putting It All Together Create Your Personal Plan Create your own personal daily regimen I found it much easier to stick with my plan if it was kept simple. Too complicated makes it too easy to give up Put it in writing Create a diet plan that is pleasant and that doesn't require too much effort Come up with a simple exercise plan

15 I believe we are all here to touch the lives of others. BUT I believe we must start with ourself, attending to our own bodies needs,in order to be able to help others. My hope is my story will be a tool to help you take charge of your body and diseases. We are given these mortal bodies to live in and we are responsible for every action used for them or against them. They will only serve us as well as we treat them. YOU are the purpose this book is being written. YOU are the reason I've been called to walk this journey. And believe me IT'S ALL ABOUT THE JOURNEY !

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