How I Made It to Paris Despite a Flare-Up — Pacing, Support & Choosing Joy

Hi friend,

I hope this month has gone well for you. I don't know about you, but it's flown by for me! I just wanted to check in and see how you're doing too.

If you haven't had a chance to catch the latest episodes of the podcast, here are two that might really support you right now:

• What is Functional Medicine with Dr. Richard Rocker — Listen here

• Honoring the Setbacks in Our Healing Journey — Listen here

  
  

Preparing for Paris... During a Flare-Up

After last month's new health challenge, I honestly wasn't sure if I'd make it to my planned trip to France — and my very first time in Paris. But I brought out every tool I've learned over the past few years, and I was determined to make it happen.

The first step? Pacing.

In the weeks leading up to the trip, I rested more and said no to things that weren't essential. I leaned into nourishing food, slower mornings, early evenings, massage therapy, time with God, and quiet moments in nature. All of it helped me feel more grounded and aligned for what was ahead.

Pacing, Support & Ditching the Guilt

When you live with chronic pain, energy is your currency — and you have to spend it wisely.

One thing that really helped was having something beautiful to look forward to. I pictured myself in France: walking by the river, soaking in the sunshine, seeing friends in Angers, exploring Paris with my family. That vision made it so much easier to pace myself and make the hard choices in the weeks beforehand.

I also took full advantage of support and assistance:

✔️ I requested wheelchair service at Charles de Gaulle Airport (yes, one of the biggest in the world!) ✔️ I booked a wheelchair at the Louvre so I could actually enjoy the experience instead of pushing through exhaustion

Quick tip: Don't let pride get in the way. Forget what people might think. If a wheelchair or extra help allows you to be part of life, use it. It's not a step back — it's a step forward.

I also avoided overpacking the days. We used buses, boats, and the metro to see the city without exhausting ourselves, and I built in breaks, naps, and slow mornings. All of it helped me savor the moments that really mattered instead of just surviving them.

A Heart Full of Gratitude

My time with friends in Angers and those few days in Paris were truly unforgettable. My heart is full.

I'm grateful that I allowed myself to still be part of life — that I didn't let illness take away the things I love. I just adapted, adjusted, and listened to my body with foresight, courage, and a little bit of improvisation. And oh, the beautiful memories we made!

So grateful - the weather, the sights and family

🎧 If you'd like to hear more about the trip, listen to this week's episode: Paris, Pacing & Permission to Live Fully — Listen here

What Are You Looking Forward To?

I pray you're getting to enjoy your summer — even if it looks different than you imagined. I hope you're finding joy in the little things: fresh air, quiet moments, laughter with friends.

I'd love to hear from you:

• What's something you're looking forward to this summer?

• What tools or practices are helping you make it possible?

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You being here means the world to me. Thank you for being part of this community, for sharing this message, and for reminding others that joy is still possible — even in the midst of pain.

Let's keep showing up. Let's keep living fully. And let's keep choosing hope.

With love and prayers, 

Michele

PS: If this blog encouraged you, consider sharing it with someone who needs a little light today. We're better together. 💛