“My story of health issues began when I was 19 years old. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, major depressive disorder, an anxiety disorder, some sort of connective tissue disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. I have been on multiple prescription medication ranging from several anti-depressants, pain killers, anti-anxiety drugs, and sleep medication that had to be delivered to my door, handed to me and signed for because it was so strong and sold on the street as a date rape drug. The side effects of all these drugs were worse than the initial symptoms that I took them for. They affected my mood, my weight, my memory and my outlook on life in general. I felt that this was my lot in life; to carry around a huge pill holder (larger than my grandparents) and be drugged for the rest of my life. Two years ago, I was working part-time at a vet clinic and maintaining my health as best I could when what I can only describe as a metaphorical truck hit me. I was experiencing fatigue that I have never experienced before. I felt that I was wearing one of those lead aprons that the dentist puts on you prior to taking X-rays. I felt heavy. Moving became difficult as did talking. Changing positions in bed was akin to a workout. My husband had to help me up from a lying position and walk me to the restroom on several occasions. I couldn’t think let alone move and felt trapped in my own body. This is when I was told I had chronic fatigue syndrome, was put on the narcotic sleeping drug, told to get lots of rest and kindly sent home. I had to quit my job and was put on disability. I was 35 years old. Fate intervened this past January 2009 by way of a dental hygienist who heard me tell my tale of woe to my dentist whom I have known for many years. She told me about Dr. Marquis, how he helped her and gave me his card. I called his office that day. My husband and I went to my first appointment and I was very apprehensive. I had seen many doctors who either threw the arms up in frustration or threw the latest medication at me. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. Dr. Marquis put me at ease immediately and listened to my history. He was kind, understanding and very matter of fact about getting me better. In fact, his confidence in my health improving was quite surprising to me. After he found abnormalities in my lab work that no other doctor had bothered to check for, he started me on several supplements and a specialized diet. I followed his orders but didn’t want to be disappointed again, so I really didn’t notice the subtle yet profound improvements. It started with not having to nap during the day. That was huge for me. Not only could I stay awake, I could make conversation and do housework. The lead apron began to lift and I found myself with more energy. I was very careful with what I did as I didn’t want to jinx anything and end up back at square one. I found that my energy kept growing and I could take on more activities without feeling the after-effects like I had before. I was able to socialize with friends again, take my dog for a walk and start exercising regularly. My joints stopped hurting. My skin became softer. My mood stabilized. I felt well enough to start school again and get back to the gym. Last week, I walked for 60 minutes on the treadmill and as the digital clock inched past 59 minutes, I started to cry out of pure joy. Sure, I felt a little silly about crying at the gym, but I didn’t care. I didn’t think this was possible for me. It was a year ago that my husband had to help me to the bathroom and here I was, working out, sweating and feeling good for the first time in years.

I am happy to report that my energy continues to sustain me throughout the day. I am no longer scared to try a new physical activity for fear that I will be stuck in bed the next day. I am experiencing no pain, which is remarkable as I have had deep joint pain for almost 20 years. I am no longer on any prescription medication. My body is not my enemy anymore. In fact, I am experiencing life as I never have and it is wonderful.

Words cannot express my gratitude for Dr. Marquis. He saved my life from being filled with doctor visits, a slew of prescription medication and a myriad of detrimental side effects. I am so very grateful for his expertise, his compassion and his commitment to improving lives. I credit him with improving not only my physical body, but also my emotional well-being. With his help, I have hope again and am looking forward to a future of fun and adventure without the weight of the world holding me down anymore.â€

Julie Ann White Eyes