As I wrap up my three short years in Marblehead, I am so
grateful for having had the opportunity to live here, yet not without major
life challenges.
My folks grew up in Lynn and as a teen, I would ride my bike
through town and once in college, dreamed of someday owning a bed and breakfast
where I would teach health classes and cook my healthy food for people.
When I moved here a few years ago, I began networking and
building relationships with local businesses but unfortunately three months
after arriving, I developed a staph infection that required surgery since I had
a rare leukemia that suppressed my immune system. Following a lengthy hospitalization and
chemotherapy, I reacted to the chemo and was quite ill for months on end. So much for getting business off the ground!
Luckily, I lived in a condo within walking distance to town
and the pharmacy, so I began to improve my stamina with short walks. Once able to get back to yoga, I was there at
The Loft, most days of the week. Randy
and Laurel’s smiling faces always made me feel welcomed.
I began to work with Steve and Rob at the Landing, creating
the SeaFit menu and with Jon and Joan at Marblehead Cable TV, doing health
interviews with local health professionals.
Additionally, Mary at the Reporter, welcomed my contributions to the
newspaper.
Once feeling better, I did begin the process of creating a
health retreat here in town and while many people liked the idea, there was
also concern about bringing a larger business as this to town. I do believe that one day there may be an
opportunity to revisit this idea, but the timing needs to be right for
embracing a more holistic style of health and wellness.
Last summer, my daughter was married at Crocker Park and the
day could not have been better. It was a
highlight of my being here in this beautiful town. Shortly after, I embarked on a business trip
to talk with leading healthcare professionals about integrative healthcare and
as I voiced my frustrations, it was suggested that I consider a few other areas
of the country, where my gifts could truly blossom. I began to consider this possibility, knowing
that my children also had interest in moving to other areas of the country.
My process was definitely sped up with health challenges
that my daughter has faced and the reality of once again needing to sell my
home for financial reasons. For those of
you who have followed my articles over these past few years, you know that I
come from a place of seeking the silver lining, looking at the gift in the
challenge. And this is exactly how I see it.
I feel blessed and complete having been here, hoping that I have touched
some lives with inspiration, and I look forward to my new chapter in Ojai, CA,
a small community of forward thinking healthcare and spiritual
professionals. I will still be available
for consultations via a HIPPA compliant form of telehealth, doxy.me for my east
coast folks.
With sincere thanks,
Julie
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