Everything Was Taken Away

As a former national champion swimmer in Denmark, I thrived on competition. That drive carried me through every aspect of my life. After moving to California, I became a competitive figure skater in the adult division, a swim coach, a Pilates instructor, a professional singer, a mom, and a wife. I even earned a degree in early childhood development, overcoming both dyslexia and the challenges of learning English as a second language. I was at home in fast-paced environments, always pushing myself to achieve more.

Then, it all came crashing down.

In May 2018, I began to feel unwell, though in hindsight, the signs had likely been there all along. The reality of my situation struck me like a ton of bricks—I could barely eat without feeling nauseous, and my energy vanished. What followed was a grueling, years-long journey through the medical system, seeking answers that seemed impossibly out of reach. By August, I was in a wheelchair, unable to stand or walk for more than a few minutes. The next year brought uncontrollable spasms, and by 2022, I was reliant on a G-J feeding tube for 17 hours a day, just to survive. Everything I once believed about myself crumbled—I could no longer coach, teach, perform, or be there for my family the way I wanted. The weight of it all was almost too much to bear. After years of uncertainty, I was finally diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a genetic connective tissue disorder. While life has settled into a new, diminished normal, I now cherish each “good” day and the blessings that remain. My music has been my lifeline, giving me renewed hope and purpose in a life that once felt lost. Click the button to watch the video and learn more about my journey.