Personal Stories:

My name is Anne. I am 67 years old; an up close and personal wife; and a long distance “grammy” to a 4-year-old in Connecticut. Thanks to the staff at From Pain To Wellness, I’m rediscovering life! I already know all about sorrow, sadness, loss, pain, depression, discouragement and drudgery. Now I’m celebrating joy, hope, energy, enthusiasm, excitement and zest!

In 1993, I was diagnosed fibromyalgia. Living with chronic, long term pain gradually used up all of my resources. Everything hurt all the time. I would go walking at the mall and after 10-20 minutes – my hands and arms hurt, my lower back was twinging and my upper thigh was numb.

Now, I can walk or stand for an hour or more. When those same old pains pop up, I know how to move or stand or use my muscles differently, right away to overcome these pains.

I’ve learned body mechanics, proper breathing, stress reduction and realistic goal-setting.

Occasionally, I still am overcome by pain and discouragement, but I don’t have to suffer those alone! There are people at From Pain To Wellness to help me through. Most often now, I can travel, relax, socialize, knit, read, sew – even house clean – all activities that I had severely limited or stopped altogether.

It’s the combination of the people at From Pain To Wellness working together with each other and with me that’s been so helpful to me.

Thank you all so much.

Gratefully & Sincerely,

Anne R. Sjodin

After 20 years of numerous doctor's visits and tests with unsuccessful results, Dr. Gruft was able to diagnose me with Candida, a fungus of the blood. I am now receiving appropriate treatment and feeling better than I have in years in just a short period of time. I am grateful for Dr. Gruft's diligence and determination in finding and answer. Thank you Dr. Gruft, and thanks to the great staff.

Chris Casper, Illinois

I am Kathleen a wife, mom, grandma and a Fibro Friend to the members of my support group. My painful symptoms, which were exacerbated in hot and humid summer months, began in 1971 in the form of a slipped disc, which required the first of two surgeries.I cannot recall the number of medical specialists I sought for relief during the next 20 plus years, however most results were fruitless and frustrating.During the winter of 1991-1992, I was struck down with a relentless and painful flu-like condition. A rheumatologist introduced me to a new medical term/diagnosis: Fibromyalgia! My newest quest for relief and an understanding, knowledgeable physician took me on a emotional roller coaster for the better part of the next 15 years.In the autumn of 2007 a door of hope was opened for me. Under the direction of Dr. Gruft I participated in nutritional and allergy testing followed with appropriate recommendations for diet, vitamins and supplements. I was provided meds to lessen my pain, encourage restful sleep and elevate my mood. With physical therapist Sudhakar I learned effective stretches and exercises for my specific weak and painful areas. I now have the tools to treat my condition.

Kathleen S. Wisz, Illinois