A little background about me and the inspiration behind this website.
A few years ago, I experienced what I thought was a urinary tract infection and started antibiotics. Despite this, I still felt unwell during a trip to visit family. On the way back to Key West, the pain became unbearable, prompting me to seek help from a urologist. He diagnosed me with interstitial cystitis, not a urinary tract infection, and provided valuable dietary advice and a prescription for Elmiron, a medication specifically for this condition.
This journey revealed to me how many women, and increasingly men, are affected by this autoimmune disease. While some believe it’s not hereditary, my experience suggests otherwise. I encouraged my mother, who had a history of urinary issues, to get tested, and she too was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis. Though her doctor did not prescribe the same medication, I introduced her to D-Mannose, which helps prevent bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls.
Sadly, my mother’s frequent infections and extensive antibiotic use led to resistance issues, and she passed away on September 17, 2023. Her experience underscored the importance of maintaining good gut health and seeking early, effective treatments.
Through this website, I aim to share my journey, raise awareness about interstitial cystitis, and provide support and resources for others facing similar challenges. Together, we can navigate this journey with hope and resilience.