My name is Dr. Janelle Mackowiak, known fondly as Dr. Mack by my patients. I wasn’t always this healthy.
From my early 20s, I sought care from multiple conventional doctors because I “never felt quite well.” Unfortunately, I had the same experiences that all too many Americans face; based on a few basic labs, I was repeatedly told by conventional doctors that everything was “fine.” The only suggestion given would be to “lose some weight and exercise.” However, the reality was that I was already exercising 6-7 days per week and had lived a vegetarian lifestyle for many years, hoping that this would resolve my issues.
I was tired ALL THE TIME
Besides being exhausted, my periods were super heavy and lasted 10-12 days. I was never happy. I did not feel like going to do anything for fear I would get sick and have to use the bathroom in a hurry. My conventional doctors prescribed antidepressants over and over again. I tried all different kinds of prescriptions, but they all made me feel worse. I felt like a zombie — it was like life was in fast forward, passing me by, but I couldn’t keep up. I no longer wanted to take pharmaceutical medications that left me in bed for days. I was worried, scared, frightful, out of my mind, I was so sick and tired of being so sick and tired! My body was so worn down, that I was not receiving the right nutrients or minerals I needed from my so-called “healthy” dietary choices.
The Beginning of Getting Well
Eventually, after experiencing this decline for years, I started researching herbs. (Remember using the library — the Dewey decimal system? Yeah, that way!) I read everything I could find about a more holistic way of living. Eventually, I found a natural doctor that also made some supplement recommendations. It didn’t happen overnight, but gradually, I began feeling better and regained my health. (After all, the body is a miraculous thing and it will fight for us when we provide the body with what it needs.) This may seem simple. But in reality, the process was some trial and error. We tried many combinations of herbs and supplements at different doses. It was a lengthy process. However, It was worth every single moment, time, and expense. I was able to get my health back which is what is needed for everything else we do — we can’t give back to anyone or anything if we don’t care for ourselves.
Little did I know at the time, that these experiences would inspire me to return to school and train to become a naturopathic and chiropractic doctor in order to help those with similar journeys. By founding Cherry Blossom Natural Wellness, I can now provide the type of care that I struggled to find with conventional medical doctors.
What can I help you with on your health journey?