Tag: Chronic Illness

Understanding Protein and Essential Amino Acids for Healing

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By David Julian – The Natural Vitality Advocate

Why Amino Acids Matter on a Healing Journey

“Where do you get your protein?”
On the Medical Medium path, this question comes up a lot. But the truth is: it’s not protein we need—it’s the essential amino acids that build, repair, and heal.

In this post, I’ll share how I meet my amino acid needs without meat, dairy, or protein powders, and how I support deep healing of my brain, muscles, and nervous system.

What Are Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)?

Essential amino acids are the 8 amino acids (histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, valine) your body can’t make on its own. You must get them from food or supplementation to:

  • Build and repair tissue
  • Support neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, GABA)
  • Detoxify the liver
  • Fuel your immune system
  • Protect your nervous system

The Protein Myth (What Medical Medium Teaches)

“It’s not about how much protein you eat—it’s about how well your body can use the amino acids you give it.” – Anthony William

Medical Medium teaches that:

  • Too much protein—especially from animal products—feeds viruses and overburdens the liver
  • Protein powders are harsh on the kidneys and unnecessary
  • Clean amino acids from fruits and greens are safe, effective, and healing

Where I Get My Amino Acids on the Medical Medium Path

1. Fruits

Fruit has been unfairly criticized in modern health trends, often blamed for everything from weight gain to blood sugar spikes. But the Medical Medium information sets the record straight—fruit is not the enemy. In fact, it’s one of the most life-giving, amino-acid-rich foods available to us.

Fruits are powerful because they offer:

• Bioavailable amino acids in a clean, non-inflammatory form

• Healing glucose that fuels the liver, brain, and every cell in the body

• Antioxidants and phytochemicals that neutralize toxins and oxidative stress

• Hydration through structured water naturally present in fruit flesh

• Natural antiviral properties that help reduce viral load and support the immune system

Some of my daily staples include:

• Bananas – rich in tryptophan to support serotonin and mood stability

• Wild blueberries – top-tier brain and nerve healers

• Mangoes, oranges, papayas – rich in vitamins, enzymes, and gentle detox power

• Apples, pears, figs and dates – grounding, soothing, and mineral-rich

I’ve made fruit a foundational part of my healing, and it’s helped me stabilize energy, lift brain fog, calm my nervous system, and support detox—without needing protein powders or processed snacks. Fruit is God-given, healing, and deeply intelligent in how it nourishes the human body.

2. Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes & Squash

Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and winter squash are often misunderstood, especially by those following low-carb or high-protein trends—but on the Medical Medium path, they’re absolute staples. These humble foods are clean, grounding carbohydrates that also happen to be excellent sources of amino acids in a highly digestible, healing form.

These healing root vegetables are:

• Rich in essential amino acids that support muscle repair, nerve function, and neurotransmitter production

• Packed with glucose, the preferred fuel source for the liver, brain, and immune system

• Supportive of adrenal health, helping stabilize energy and blood sugar

• Alkalizing and anti-inflammatory, aiding digestion and calming the gut

• Free from dietary triggers like fat, excess protein, and food chemicals that can burden the liver

I include them in my lunch or dinner almost daily—not just because they’re satisfying, but because they help rebuild tissue, support detoxification, and calm the central nervous system. They’re simple, healing foods that carry deep nutritional intelligence and align perfectly with how the body truly heals.

3. Leafy Greens & Herbs

I regularly include spinach, romaine, butter and leaf lettuces, cilantro, and parsley in my healing meals—either fresh in salads, juiced, blended in smoothies, or lightly steamed. These greens are far more than just roughage; they’re nutrient-dense powerhouses that provide some of the most healing forms of plant-based amino acids available.

These leafy greens and herbs are rich in:

• Bioavailable amino acids that help rebuild tissue and strengthen the nervous system

• Trace minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium that support adrenal and brain health

• Chlorophyll, which oxygenates the blood and helps cleanse the liver

• Electrolytes that stabilize cellular communication and hydration

• Natural antiviral and antibacterial compounds that help reduce viral load and inflammation

These aren’t just salad fillers—they are essential tools for regeneration, especially when healing from chronic illness, neurological stress, or immune dysfunction. I make it a point to include these greens in my daily routine to fuel detox, rebuild my nervous system, and support brain clarity.

4. Spirulina & Barley Grass Juice Powder (BGJP)

Included in my Heavy Metal Detox Smoothie, these superfoods:

  • Rebuild tissues
  • Support brain detox
  • Bind and remove metals
  • Fuel immune cells

5. Sprouts & Microgreens

I use a daily mix of organic alfalfa, radish, broccoli, and clover microgreens. This blend is rich in chlorophyll, trace minerals, and amino acids that are easily absorbed by the body and highly effective for cellular healing.

These microgreens are loaded with:

• Bioavailable amino acids to support muscle and nerve repair

• Enzymes that enhance digestion and detox

• Minerals that nourish the adrenals and brain

• Anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that assist the immune system

I add a handful of this vibrant, living food to lunch or dinner each day as part of my commitment to rebuilding from the inside out. These tiny greens carry a tremendous amount of life force and healing energy—without burdening the liver or feeding pathogens.

Why I Personally Choose to Supplement with Essential Amino Acids

Even on a healing diet rich in fruits, greens, potatoes, and superfoods, I’ve found that sometimes the body needs extra support. This is especially true during periods of intense healing or physical rebuilding, such as:

• Brain and nerve recovery

• Post-seizure repair

• Detox from heavy metals or viral waste

• Muscle rebuilding and fitness recovery

• Chronic illness or long-standing deficiencies

For me, adding essential amino acid supplementation has been a way to fill in the gaps and help my body restore what’s been depleted over years of illness, neurological trauma, and detox work.

I want to be clear:

This is a personal decision that I’ve made based on my specific healing needs. It’s not something I believe everyone must do.

Some people may get all the amino acids they need from their diet alone—especially if their liver and digestion are strong, and they’re not dealing with the same level of neurological or muscular recovery that I am. Others may choose to use supplementation only temporarily, or not at all.

That’s the beauty of the Medical Medium path—it allows for flexibility and intuition.

We’re all walking different journeys, and I deeply respect everyone’s right to choose what feels right for their body.

For me, supplementing with clean, high-quality essential amino acids has provided:

• Greater physical resilience

• Faster recovery from exertion or flares

• Increased strength and stamina during detox

• Mental clarity and better emotional balance

• Support for neurotransmitters and nervous system repair

It’s not about pushing protein. It’s about giving my body the raw materials it needs—in a form it can absorb and use efficiently—so I can keep healing and living with strength, clarity, and peace. Supplemental EAAs help me fill in those gaps without stressing the liver. They’re fast-absorbing and highly effective for deep repair.

What Happens If You Don’t Get Enough Amino Acids?

While the modern world is hyper-focused on protein intake, it rarely discusses what really matters—essential amino acids (EAAs) in a form the body can actually use. Without them, the body begins to break down, struggle, and stall in its healing. This isn’t about protein deficiency in the conventional sense—it’s about a deficiency in the building blocks of life.

Even if someone is eating “clean,” they may still lack the essential amino acids needed for core functions like tissue regeneration, neurotransmitter creation, detox, and immune response. And on a healing journey, when the body is doing deep internal repair, those needs increase even more.

Here’s what can happen when the body doesn’t receive enough EAAs:

Muscle Breakdown

Without sufficient amino acids, the body will start to catabolize its own muscle tissue to access what it needs. This leads to:

• Weakness and loss of strength

• Soreness even after light activity

• Physical instability or poor posture

Especially when healing from chronic illness, injury, or prolonged detox, preserving muscle is critical—not just for mobility, but for supporting metabolism and nervous system balance.

Neurotransmitter Imbalance

EAAs are the raw materials for brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and melatonin. If the body doesn’t have enough:

• Brain fog becomes persistent

• Anxiety and depression can deepen

• Sleep becomes shallow or disrupted

As someone healing from neurological trauma, epilepsy, and PTSD, I know firsthand how crucial it is to keep neurotransmitters supported. Without adequate EAAs, emotional stability and mental clarity begin to slip.

Detox Stagnation

Your liver needs amino acids to build detox enzymes and carry out chemical conversions in both Phase I and Phase II detox pathways. Without them:

• The liver becomes overburdened

• Toxins recirculate instead of being eliminated

• Symptoms like skin breakouts, fatigue, and headaches flare up

In a Medical Medium lifestyle, we ask a lot of the liver—celery juice, HMDS, herbs, and more. But without amino acids, the liver lacks the fuel it needs to actually perform the detox.

Immune Weakness

Amino acids help create antibodies, immune cells, and repair damaged tissue from viral warfare. When deficient:

• Viral reactivations become more common

• Infections linger or recur

• Inflammation rises in the background

For anyone dealing with chronic EBV, shingles, or other hidden pathogens, EAAs are not optional—they’re required armor in the fight.

Poor Repair and Recovery

From skin to joints to hair, amino acids are needed for:

• Collagen production

• Connective tissue regeneration

• Hormonal balance and stress recovery

Without enough:

• Hair may thin or fall out

• Nails become brittle

• Wounds heal slowly or poorly

• Tissue pain or sensitivity can persist

Whether recovering from surgery, a seizure, or the wear and tear of daily detox, your body can only rebuild if it has the foundational materials—EAAs.

Bottom Line: You Can’t Heal Without the Building Blocks

We don’t have to overconsume protein to get these essential aminos—but we do need to get them from the right sources: fruit, greens, healing plants, and—when appropriate—clean supplemental support.

The difference between surviving and thriving often comes down to one question:

“Is my body being given what it actually needs to rebuild?”

When the answer is yes, healing deepens.

When it’s not, progress can plateau—no matter how perfect the rest of the protocol looks.

How Much Do You Need to Thrive?

Instead of counting grams, Medical Medium encourages focusing on absorption and clean sources.

Here’s my daily amino acid foundation:

  • Fruits – Smoothies, snacks, and meals
  • Potatoes/Sweet Potatoes – Lunch or dinner
  • Leafy Greens & Herbs – Juices, salads, cooked dishes
  • Spirulina + BGJP – Daily in my Heavy Metal Detox Smoothie
  • Microgreens & Sprouts – Added to meals
  • Essential Amino Acid Support – Used therapeutically as part of my healing plan

Clean Aminos Are the Key

I’ve learned firsthand that I don’t need animal protein to heal. What I need are the right building blocks—clean, plant-based amino acids that repair, protect, and fuel my recovery.

Thanks to Medical Medium’s teachings, I’ve experienced:

  • Stronger energy
  • Better sleep
  • Faster muscle recovery
  • Reduced seizure activity
  • Clearer mood and focus

You can thrive on this path—without compromise.

Disclaimer:

The content on this site, including blog posts, shared material, and external links, is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen, including medications, diet, exercise, or supplementation.

David Julian, Natural Vitality Advocate, is not a licensed medical professional. The views expressed in this blog and shared content are those of the respective authors and do not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or reliability.

David Julian is not affiliated with Natural Vitality or NaturalVitality.com. He does not promote, sell, or take a position for or against them.

My Journey: From Disability to Healing

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My Daily Supplement Routine

Hidden Dangers in Health Foods and Supplements

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In our quest for optimal health, many of us incorporate health foods, vitamins, and supplements into our daily routines. However, it’s crucial to recognize that some of these products may contain harmful chemicals, posing potential risks to our well-being. This article explores these hidden dangers, supported by recent studies and expert insights, to shed light on the contaminants present in products designed to promote health.

Packaging Hazards: Beyond the Ingredients

While we often scrutinize the ingredients in our health products, the packaging materials can be an overlooked source of toxins. A European study revealed that chemicals in food packaging might contribute up to 100 times the amount of toxins compared to pesticides or other environmental chemicals. Materials such as certain plastics and can linings can leach harmful substances into the products they encase, leading to unintended exposure.

Common Contaminants in Health Products

1. Acrylamides

Formed during the cooking and processing of carbohydrates, acrylamides have been associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer by 59%. These chemicals are prevalent in fried, roasted, or grilled snacks like chips. Notably, acrylamides are not listed as ingredients since they form during processing, making them harder for consumers to identify and avoid. (National Cancer Institute)

2. Artificial Colors

To enhance visual appeal, many products incorporate synthetic colorings derived from coal tar, a substance also used in paints and roofing materials. These artificial colors have been linked to severe health issues, including autism, ADHD, birth defects, and cancer. (Center for Science in the Public Interest)

3. Azodicarbonamide

Used as a bleaching agent in packaged foods like frozen dinners, pasta, and flour mixes, azodicarbonamide has been linked to increased cancer risk and asthma.

4. Benzoate Preservatives (BHT, BHA, TBHQ)

These preservatives prevent fats in foods from becoming rancid but have been associated with cancer risk, estrogen balance disruption, asthma, and hyperactivity. They are commonly found in cereals, nut mixes, gum, butter, meat, and dehydrated potatoes. (PubMed Study)

5. Bisphenol A (BPA)

BPA is used to harden plastics found in water bottles, baby bottles, and the linings of canned goods. It can leach into food and beverages, with detectable levels in the urine of 93% of U.S. adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) are conducting extensive research on its health effects. (CDC Report)

6. Boric Acid

Found in some supplements, boric acid can cause headaches, depression, inflammation, DNA damage, and birth defects.

7. Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)

Used to enhance the bright colors in beverages like sodas and sports drinks, BVO has been linked to increased cholesterol levels and potential damage to the liver and kidneys.

8. Carrageenan

A common additive in various food products, carrageenan has been linked to gastrointestinal inflammation and higher rates of colon cancer in laboratory animals. The Cornucopia Institute advises individuals with digestive issues to eliminate carrageenan from their diet to assess its impact. (Cornucopia Institute)

9. Fluoride in Green Tea

While green tea is renowned for its health benefits, it can contain high levels of fluoride due to the tea plant’s propensity to absorb fluoride from the soil. This presents a paradox for health-conscious consumers.

10. Heavy Metals

Many protein shakes, detox products, supplements, cosmetics, and processed foods have been found to contain heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, fluoride, and aluminum. Notably, a study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found concerning levels of toxic heavy metals in some prenatal vitamins, with seven products exceeding arsenic limits and two having excessive lead. (University of Colorado Study)

11. Hexane-Extracted Soy and Rice Proteins

Many natural rice and soy proteins are extracted using hexane, a chemical originating from China. Hexane extraction is highly polluting to the environment and poses potential health risks to consumers.

Specific Supplement Concerns

Certain supplements, despite their popularity, have been linked to adverse health effects:

• Turmeric and Green Tea Extracts – While often praised for their antioxidant properties, these supplements have been associated with liver damage in some individuals. A recent study estimated that over 15 million U.S. adults use supplements that might harm the liver, underscoring the importance of caution and consultation with healthcare providers. (NIH Report)

• Sea Kelp Supplements – Touted as “superfoods,” sea kelp and similar brown seaweeds like bladderwrack have gained popularity. However, their health claims are not well-supported by scientific studies, and consumption of unregulated algae products can be hazardous. Risks include heavy metal contamination and high iodine content, which can interfere with thyroid function. Experts recommend focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and sustainable seaweeds instead of relying on such supplements.

Regulatory Oversight and Consumer Vigilance

The dietary supplement industry operates with relatively lax regulatory oversight compared to prescription medications. In the United States, dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA like prescription medications, and some products might not contain the ingredients listed. Independent testing and certification by organizations can help ensure product quality. (FDA Regulations on Supplements)

This regulatory gap has led to instances of contamination and mislabeling. For example, a study of dietary supplements sold between 2007 and 2016 identified 776 that contained unlisted pharmaceutical drugs, many of which could interact with other medications and lead to hospitalization. Despite these findings, fewer than half of the adulterated supplements were recalled.

Conclusion

While health foods, vitamins, and supplements can play a role in supporting well-being, it’s essential to be aware of potential contaminants and exercise caution. Prioritizing products with transparent sourcing, minimal processing, and third-party testing can help mitigate risks. Always research ingredients, opt for reputable brands, and whenever possible, choose whole, organic foods over processed alternatives.

Resource Links:

• Acrylamides and Cancer Risk

• Artificial Food Dyes and ADHD

• Bisphenol A (BPA) and Health Concerns

• BHA and BHT in Processed Foods

• Carrageenan and Gut Health

• Heavy Metals in Supplements

• Liver Toxicity of Green Tea Extracts

• Supplement Contamination Risks

Disclaimer

The content on this site, including blog posts, shared material, and external links, is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen, including medications, diet, exercise, or supplementation.

David Julian, Natural Vitality Advocate, is not a licensed medical professional. The views expressed in this blog and shared content are those of the respective authors and do not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or reliability.

David Julian is not affiliated with Natural Vitality or NaturalVitality.com. He does not promote, sell, or take a position for or against them.

Carnivore vs. Medical Medium: The Best Path to Wellness

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This post reflects my personal perspective, shaped by lived experience, long-term research, and prayerful discernment. I am not a medical professional, and nothing here should be taken as medical advice. People are free to explore different dietary approaches, and that freedom matters. What I share here is simply the framework that has proven most effective and sustainable for my own health, values, and belief structure.

I do not follow the Medical Medium protocol in a rigid or absolutist way, nor do I adhere strictly to any single dietary label. Instead, I follow a modified Medical Medium–informed protocol combined with principles of a modified Mediterranean diet, guided by what I’ve found to be physiologically sound, historically grounded, and consistent with biblical teachings on stewardship of the body. This comparison is offered for education and clarity—not persuasion.

Click Here to See Medical Medium Books on Amazon

Introduction: Two Very Different Views of How the Body Heals

The Carnivore Diet and Medical Medium–influenced nutrition represent fundamentally different philosophies about energy, healing, and the long-term needs of the human body.

  • The Carnivore Diet centers exclusively on animal-based foods—meat, fish, eggs, and sometimes dairy—eliminating all plant foods. It is commonly promoted for short-term symptom relief, blood sugar control, and inflammation reduction through carbohydrate elimination.
  • Medical Medium–influenced nutrition, when applied thoughtfully and flexibly, emphasizes fruits, vegetables, herbs, mineral salts, hydration, and strategic fat moderation to support liver function, nervous system health, and detoxification. In my case, this is complemented by selected Mediterranean principles—such as olive oil, herbs, and clean protein—used with restraint and discernment.

While both approaches can appear to “work” on the surface, they do so through entirely different mechanisms. One prioritizes restriction and metabolic adaptation; the other focuses on restoration, replenishment, and long-term resilience. Understanding that difference matters.

1. Energy Production: Glucose vs. Ketosis

Aspect MM-Informed / Mediterranean-Modified Carnivore Diet
Primary Fuel Glucose from fruit, vegetables, and clean starches Ketones from fat and protein
Brain Fuel Designed to run optimally on glucose Relies on ketones when glucose is restricted
Cellular Energy Supports ATP production with lower metabolic stress Requires metabolic adaptation under carbohydrate deprivation
Long-Term Impact Supports liver, thyroid, and nervous system health May increase liver and adrenal strain over time

Why Glucose Matters

The brain and central nervous system are biologically designed to rely on glucose as their primary fuel source. Fruits, vegetables, and properly prepared carbohydrates provide clean energy that replenishes glycogen, stabilizes stress hormones, and supports neurological function.

  • Research consistently shows glucose is the brain’s preferred fuel under normal physiological conditions.
  • Ketosis is a backup survival mechanism, not an ideal long-term state. It becomes dominant during famine or carbohydrate deprivation.
  • Chronic low-carbohydrate intake can increase stress on the liver and adrenal system, particularly in individuals with neurological or metabolic vulnerabilities.

Verdict: Glucose is not the enemy. Metabolic dysfunction arises from liver overload, chronic stress, and excessive fat intake—not from whole-food carbohydrates.

2. Detoxification, Healing, and Chronic Illness

Aspect MM-Informed / Mediterranean-Modified Carnivore Diet
Detox Support Provides antioxidants, minerals, and hydration Minimal support for detox pathways
Liver Function Supports cleansing and regeneration Increased workload from high fat/protein
Pathogen Control Limits viral and bacterial fuel sources No direct antiviral or chelating support
Lymph & Waste Improves hydration and waste movement Can increase acidic metabolic byproducts

A Functional View of Detoxification

From a functional and biblical stewardship perspective, the body heals best when its elimination systems are supported rather than overburdened. Fruits, vegetables, herbs, and adequate hydration supply the micronutrients the liver requires to neutralize toxins and maintain balance.

  • Fiber and plant compounds help bind and remove waste.
  • Hydration is essential for lymphatic flow and neurological stability.
  • Symptom relief without detoxification is not the same as healing.

Verdict: Eliminating triggers can reduce symptoms, but restoration requires nourishment and clearance—not perpetual restriction.

3. Long-Term Sustainability

Aspect MM-Informed / Mediterranean-Modified Carnivore Diet
Liver & Thyroid Supported through glucose and minerals Often stressed long term
Heart Health Low-to-moderate fat, plant-forward High saturated fat intake
Gut Health Feeds beneficial microbiota Starves microbiome diversity
Longevity Historically and culturally consistent Lacks long-term population data

Historically, human diets that supported longevity and resilience were not zero-carb or plant-exclusive. They were balanced, seasonal, and rooted in whole foods—principles echoed both in Mediterranean cultures and biblical agrarian life.

Verdict: Sustainable health is built on nourishment, moderation, and wisdom—not extremes.

Final Thoughts: Why This Approach Works for Me

I don’t follow labels. I follow results, conscience, and stewardship. A modified Medical Medium–informed framework, paired with select Mediterranean principles and grounded in biblical values, has proven to be the most balanced, sustainable approach for my health.

  • ✔ Focuses on restoration rather than suppression
  • ✔ Respects the body’s design and energy needs
  • ✔ Aligns with long-term stewardship, not short-term fixes

Others are free to choose differently. This is simply the path that has brought clarity, stability, and progress for me—and that alignment matters.

Click Here to See Medical Medium Books on Amazon

Disclaimer

The content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to diet, medication, or health practices.

David Julian, Natural Vitality Advocate, is not a licensed medical professional. Views expressed are personal and do not guarantee outcomes.

David Julian is not affiliated with Natural Vitality or NaturalVitality.com.

David’s story with Epilepsy

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David Julian’s Journey with Epilepsy, Health Challenges, and Faith

My journey with epilepsy began when I was 15 years old during a family trip driving through Blythe, CA. I had my first tonic-clonic seizure while in the car, and at that moment, my family realized that I had likely been living with epilepsy undiagnosed since infancy. The onset of these seizures marked the beginning of a long, complex path filled with physical pain, emotional struggles, and major life changes.

Early Struggles and Loss of Independence

At 16, I was thrilled to receive my driver’s license—a symbol of freedom and independence. However, that excitement was short-lived. After another seizure, my license was suspended for the first time. Outside of my family, I only confided in my best friend, who always had my back. He never broke my trust and ensured my safety whenever we were together.

By 18, epilepsy had already taken another piece of my independence. I was working fueling planes at John Wayne Airport when I suddenly had a seizure while driving a van. My muscles locked up, my foot jammed on the gas pedal, and I lost control. The van crashed into a private jet and veered toward the runway—directly into the path of a landing DC-9. By some miracle, I survived after crashing into a helicopter and a light pole. That accident ended my career at the airport and led to another driving suspension.

Depression and isolation crept in. I struggled to come to terms with my epilepsy, feeling as though I had lost control over my life. My mother became my biggest advocate, tirelessly researching treatments, specialists, and epilepsy foundations. We went everywhere—from Orange County to L.A., the Inland Empire to San Diego—seeking answers, yet epilepsy remained unpredictable and relentless.

Finding Stability, Fatherhood, and a Turning Point

In my twenties and thirties, I built a stable career, eventually becoming a supervisor in a transportation company. For nearly 11 years, my seizures were well-controlled with medication, and I thought I had finally gained control over epilepsy.

Then, when my daughter was three, we took a family trip to California. During the flight, she had a seizure—the most terrifying experience of my life. The pilot made an emergency landing in Ohio, and we spent a week at Children’s Hospital of Ohio. Over the next year, she had two more seizures but thankfully remained seizure-free as she grew older.

However, by 2006, my seizures resurfaced. A breakthrough seizure at work led to increased medication, followed by further adjustments as my seizures persisted. My mom flew from California to New Jersey to be with me during Thanksgiving—our first holiday together at Boston Market. Things stabilized temporarily, but the worst was yet to come.

The Seizure That Changed Everything (January 2007)

In January 2007, I was outside a church in New Jersey, picking up my daughter for an overnight stay. Snow blanketed the ground as I started my truck to warm it up. Then, without warning, I collapsed into a massive tonic-clonic seizure. As always, I fell hard—landing on my knees and face. The impact left me with three permanent scars, severe bruising, and sprains. I was rushed to the hospital, where I spent three and a half weeks undergoing extensive testing and medication adjustments.

That seizure didn’t just leave physical scars—it changed my life forever. I lost my job, and after much deliberation, my family and I decided that it was best for me to move back to California. Within two weeks, I packed up my life, said goodbye to my daughter, and relocated home. I have not driven since 2007.

The reality of this transition was crushing. I had always been independent and took pride in providing for myself, but now my career was gone, and with it, the structure and purpose that work had given me. The idea of losing my ability to support myself was overwhelming.

Amidst the uncertainty, I reached out to an old friend I had worked with years before. She had since become a manager at the company where we had once worked together, and upon learning about my situation, she graciously offered me a temporary position. It was meant to be a short-term opportunity to help me get back on my feet, and for that, I was incredibly grateful. Returning to work gave me a sense of purpose, a small glimpse of normalcy in a time of great upheaval. Despite my health struggles, I pushed myself to show up and give it my all.

However, as time went on, my seizures remained uncontrolled, and what was intended to be a brief return to the workforce stretched longer than expected. I found myself in and out of work, frequently placed on short-term and long-term disability. Each time I tried to return, another seizure or medical complication would pull me away. I clung to the hope that I could regain stability, but by 2012, it became clear that my condition made maintaining steady employment impossible. After multiple failed attempts to sustain work, I was ultimately declared permanently disabled. The weight of this reality was devastating. The transition from a working professional to someone who relied on disability benefits was humbling and difficult to accept.

Adding to the difficulty, my doctor advised that living alone was no longer a safe option due to the unpredictability of my seizures. Recognizing the challenges I faced, my parents graciously moved me into their home. While I was grateful for their support, the adjustment was emotionally challenging. My world felt smaller, and I had to come to terms with the loss of my independence. The once-simple things—running errands, going for a drive, even being alone—were now risks I had to carefully navigate.

During this time, I struggled deeply with feelings of frustration and helplessness. The shift from being a working professional to someone who relied on others for daily needs was humbling. Yet, my parents’ unwavering love and support helped me find stability in this new phase of life. Over time, I began to see that accepting help wasn’t a sign of weakness—it was an opportunity to focus on my health and healing.

Advocacy and The Epilepsy Connection

Determined to raise awareness, I founded The Epilepsy Connection, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2007. Our mission was to:

  • Raise epilepsy and SUDEP awareness.
  • Provide support groups for those affected by seizures.
  • Educate communities on proper seizure care and management.
  • Offer financial assistance for protective helmets, seizure medications, and alternative treatments.
  • Assist with service dog grants and seizure detection devices.

We helped people nationwide, even providing service dog and medical assistance. One of the most rewarding moments was helping a young child receive a seizure detection device that changed their family’s life. However, due to emotional exhaustion, I made the difficult decision to close the nonprofit in 2015.

The 2017 Seizure That Led to Brain Injury

In December 2017, I was on a date at a restaurant when I suffered a severe tonic-clonic seizure, resulting in status epilepticus. I woke up two and a half days later in the ICU with a brain bleed, a concussion, and spinal injuries that required cervical fusion (C4-C7) and lumbar surgery. I was later diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) and PTSD, adding further challenges to my journey.

Losing My Service Dog, Allie (2022)

I had always been interested in service dogs, and I trained with Little Angels Service Dogs, my dog Allie, a yellow Labrador Retriever. She was my best friend and seizure response dog, alerting me before seizures and improving my quality of life. Sadly, Allie passed away in 2022. Losing her deepened my reliance on faith. Without her subtle warnings, I had to adjust to life without the security she provided.

Faith, Healing, and Medical Medium Teachings

In 2014, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, a decision that transformed my approach to healing. Later, I began following the teachings of Medical Medium, incorporating detoxification, plant-based nutrition, and natural remedies. These protocols have significantly improved my health and have played a key role in my recovery.

One Bible verse that has guided me through these challenges is:

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.” (Psalm 28:7)

Living with Purpose and Resilience

Despite epilepsy, brain injury, and chronic pain, I refuse to let these conditions define me. Instead, I focus on faith, advocacy, and natural healing. My journey has been filled with loss, struggle, and pain, but also hope, perseverance, and strength. I share my story not for pity, but to offer hope to those who may be struggling.

If you or someone you love is battling epilepsy, chronic illness, or life’s unexpected challenges, know this: You are not alone. There is always hope, always light, and always a path forward.

May the Lord bless you and keep you; may His face shine upon you and give you peace. No matter where you are on your journey, may you find strength in faith, comfort in love, and the courage to keep moving forward. You are never alone, for God walks beside you every step of the way.

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The content on this site, including blog posts, shared material, and external links, is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen, including medications, diet, exercise, or supplementation.

David Julian, Natural Vitality Advocate, is not a licensed medical professional. The views expressed in this blog and shared content are those of the respective authors and do not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or reliability.

David Julian is not affiliated with Natural Vitality or NaturalVitality.com. He does not promote, sell, or take a position for or against them.