About Us
At Beyond the Dizziness, our mission is to empower individuals and families navigating the challenges of Meniere’s disease and similar conditions by sharing our journey of overcoming obstacles, finding balance, and embracing the full spectrum of life. We aim to provide insights, strategies, and a sense of community that uplifts and supports those affected, fostering a space where wellness, understanding, and family support converge. We aspire to illuminate paths toward wellness, celebrate resilience, and advocate for a life lived fully and joyously, beyond the limitations of dizziness.
Meet Mike
Mike here and in 2012, my life took an unexpected turn. What started as a day like any other quickly became the beginning of a challenging journey with Meniere’s disease. I woke up to a world spinning uncontrollably, marking the onset of relentless vertigo that has never left me. This was more than just a dizzy spell; it was a diagnosis that would redefine my existence.
Meniere’s disease brought with it a host of companions I never asked for: persistent ear pain, the constant ringing of tinnitus, unpredictable balance issues, recurring headaches, hearing fluctuations, and sudden, unprovoked drop attacks. In pursuit of relief, I embarked on a medical odyssey, consulting numerous doctors and trying various treatments, only to find myself often worse off or unchanged.
Faced with the inadequacy of conventional treatments, I took matters into my own hands. I dove deep into understanding Meniere’s disease, seeking knowledge wherever I could find it. This quest for understanding led me to cannabis, a remedy that, unlike others, brought significant relief to my symptoms.
Despite the daily battle with Meniere’s, I knew I had responsibilities that couldn’t be ignored. My family needed me—not just as a provider but as a present, engaged part of our life together. In 2015, amidst this storm, I founded a business. This wasn’t just any venture; it was designed from the ground up to accommodate the unpredictability of my disease and the needs of our special son.
Every day with Meniere’s disease is unique. Some days are good, filled with hope and productivity. Others are challenging, demanding rest and patience. But every day, no matter its nature, is a step forward on this journey.
Through ‘Beyond the Dizziness,’ I aim to share the realities of living with a chronic illness—not just the struggles but also the triumphs. My hope is to provide insight, support, and encouragement to others navigating their paths with chronic conditions. By sharing my story, I want to show that it’s possible to live a fulfilling life, run a successful business, and cherish family moments, all while managing Meniere’s disease.
Meet Kristen
Hi, Kristen here! I share my life with my wonderful husband, Mike, and our special needs son.
My role in our family is multifaceted—I am a partner, caregiver, business operator, and the one that keeps everything moving forward in our chaotic lives. Amidst the challenges, I’ve found my passion: creating systems and plans to streamline our life, making the unpredictable a bit more manageable.
My journey has taught me the power of adaptability, the strength found in unity, and the importance of cherishing every moment. As Mike’s condition has evolved, so have I, cultivating resilience and learning to balance the demands of caregiving with personal and professional fulfillment.
My hope is to help relieve stress by sharing insight and offering support for those who love someone with a chronic illness.
Beyond the Dizziness is born out of a desire to extend a hand to others navigating similar paths. It’s a space for sharing insights, offering support, and building a community with those who understand the intricacies of loving someone with a chronic illness. Here, you’ll find stories of our trials and triumphs, practical advice for managing life and health, and reflections on finding joy amidst adversity.
Join us as we explore the landscape of chronic illness together, finding balance, and discovering the beauty and strength in the challenges we face. Because together, we can journey beyond the dizziness and embrace the fullness of life.