Paula H

For the past 6 years, I have suffered from “IBS”- a cluster of digestive symptoms marked by abdominal bloating, distention, drastic changes in bowel habits and lack of energy. I tried in vain to find the answer to my symptoms in the medical community – 2 Gastrointestinal Specialists, a huge battery of tests, 2 medications, a number of diet changes and over the counter medications that all brought no answer to my symptoms. As my symptoms continued, IBS was having a huge impact on my life – it was increasingly difficult to plan and accept invitations to social activities, to travel, and to work.  I was often exhausted as my sleep was interrupted with abdominal bloating and discomfort. IBS became a main factor in my decision to retire.
I kept searching for the answer as medical doctors told me there was nothing further they could offer me.  Holistic Healing Arts and Dr. Robin Roarke was that answer!! I confess initially I was skeptical as I am a retired nurse having practiced 35 years in acute care but I was determined to find an answer and change in the trajectory of my life. Dr. Robin listened intently to me and my IBS story, validated and explained all of what I had been experiencing in a very different light. She shared the process and goals of acupuncture and I committed to this process initially with twice a week sessions. From the start, I experienced slow but steady progress as herbal supplements, stretching exercises and diet changes were added to my treatment plan that also improved all my symptoms.  
It has been a journey of steady progress with a setback or two but Dr. Robin never failed to listen, to believe in me and the process and today some of my symptoms are completely gone while others have drastically improved as my body healed itself. Acupuncture has given me a new lease on life and provided the healing and management that traditional medicine failed to provide. Today, I feel completely different from the person I was on my first visit and so look forward to continued progress and the road ahead. It can seem like a long road initially as we are indeed a culture of immediate gratification. I urge you to have patience with yourself and the process. You are worth it! I have learned it takes time to undo years and years of symptoms and to impact their causation. We are blessed to have such a competent, knowledgeable, patient, and caring acupuncture physician within our community! Bless yourself with the opportunity to start your journey to healing!

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