i’m still buzzing from thyroid eye disease awareness week and the connected 2025 global ted conference with the ted community organization. moderating the final q+a session was such an honor. i’m still in awe of everyone who showed up… the panelists, doctors, advocacy groups, moderators, and especially the ted patients who shared their experiences. it reminded me how powerful our community really is.
i also started health coaching school this weekend, and i’ll be in class every saturday until february. it feels so good to learn alongside like-minded people and see everyone’s different coaching styles. it feels like another step toward the work i’m meant to do.
on the personal side, this week has been overwhelming. picking up extra pharmacy hours, balancing my business, trying to keep up with content, and feeling like what i posted for awareness week just wasn’t “good enough.” but then i reminded myself… in my world, every week is ted awareness week. i advocate every single day, not just once a year. impact isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up with heart.
friday night i actually went out for a friend’s birthday. i danced, laughed, and honestly had fun for the first time in a while. i had one drink before switching to a mocktail, but the damage was already done. the next morning my entire face and my eyes were so puffy, worse than i’ve seen in a long time. thankfully it went away after about a day, but wow… my body truly does not play when it comes to alcohol and inflammation.
have you entered my giveaway yet? i’m giving away one free thyroid coaching session + my fav probiotics, and i’ll announce the winner this friday.
and a reminder: i’m hosting our next graves and ted virtual support group this sunday, nov 23 at 12pm est. let me know if you can make it. i can’t wait to meet you 💜 elena
#gravesdisease #graveseyedisease #gravesophthalmopathy #thyroideyedisease #hashimotos
Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) and Graves Ophthalmopathy are complex conditions affecting the eyes and overall health, requiring careful management and support. Many living with TED experience symptoms such as lid swelling, bulging, upper lid drooping, and misalignment, which are evident in different stages as seen during specialized eye checks. One important aspect many patients discover is how lifestyle choices, like alcohol consumption, can trigger or worsen inflammation, leading to noticeable swelling of the face and eyes. This reaction underscores the need for personalized care and awareness of body responses. Being part of a supportive community and engaging in awareness activities like TED conferences or virtual support groups can provide tremendous emotional and educational benefits. These platforms bring together patients, doctors, advocates, and researchers, fostering a shared sense of empowerment and learning. Additionally, pursuing health coaching can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to better manage their symptoms, optimize well-being, and support others on similar journeys. Advocacy efforts are vital beyond designated awareness weeks; daily engagement helps raise visibility and fosters understanding among the broader public. For many, the impact comes from continuous authentic involvement rather than seeking perfection in awareness campaigns. Celebrating personal milestones, balancing work and advocacy, and acknowledging moments of joy contribute to resilience and mental health. For those experiencing TED symptoms, monitoring changes such as swelling or eye alignment irregularities is crucial for timely medical intervention. Combining traditional medical care with supportive therapies, including probiotics or coaching sessions, can improve quality of life. If you or someone you know is managing Graves disease, TED, or Hashimoto's, joining virtual support groups provides a valuable connection to others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences, asking questions, and gaining emotional support help reduce isolation and empower you to live fully despite health challenges. Remember, your journey matters, and showing up with heart, compassion, and community support is a powerful form of advocacy and healing.