My health journey began at my birth. I was born with a congenital heart defect called “Tetralogy of Fallot”. You would have looked at me and thought I was a healthy baby… except that my lips and fingernail beds had a slightly blue twinge to them. At the time, open heart surgery was not performed as regularly as it is today, so my parents decided to wait as long a possible before a surgery was scheduled. I underwent open heart surgery at the age of 9. I am so grateful for the care I received, so many years ago, at the Boston Children’s Hospital. During my younger years, my amazing mother knew instinctively that I needed to eat only the most nutritious food she could find. Being of Italian and Lebanese heritage, that was not a difficult task. We always ate a true Mediterranean Diet. Hummus and lentils were staples in our home, along with a variety of vegetables prepared in delicious ways. You can find many of my family recipes on my recipe page! I believe this lifestyle, along with my mother’s aversion to anything with sugar, is one of the reasons I am a healthy, thriving adult. I am passionate about researching safe products that we put on our bodies, learning about foods that heal and nurture our bodies, and using essential oils for optimal health. I am a testament to anyone who has heart issues, that you can lead a full, active and vibrant life. All you have to do is pay attention to your diet, stay active, and practice mindfulness. To Your Health!