When people see me, they may see a seemingly “average” person. While I am grateful for all that I have been able to accomplish and the opportunities I’ve had in my life, I present very contradictory to my experience. I feel it is important for me to be honest with you and tell you that my journey has not been the traditional one you’d expect.

What many don’t know is that, since the age of 6, I have suffered from a chronic illness that left even my doctors baffled. I was sick all of the time with nerve pain that left me totally immobile and an energy battery that drained faster than your outdated iPhone. It wasn’t until well into my 20’s that I was finally diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E./CFS). Although I am one of the lucky ones who was able to receive treatment, and respond well to it, M.E. still affects many parts of my life.

Prior to being able to give a name to my illness, I had dreams of being a neurosurgeon or a defense attorney working on behalf of those with psychiatric conditions. I assumed, based on what all of the doctors told me, that my health struggles were rooted in something that wasn’t working right in my head. After years of trying every wellness regimen out there and many therapists later, it was a bittersweet moment to find out there was truly something wrong with my body. This new reality meant I had to forge a new path to realize my goals and future.

One of my core values is utilizing my ability to learn, so I knew I would continue my education. However, I have learned that education is not always accessible to someone like me - someone who would miss weeks and months of school, when all I wanted to do was be in that classroom and absorb as much knowledge as I could. Someone who would love to be a neurosurgeon but can’t hold her own head up on those more difficult days. It wasn’t until 2020, when I was finally able to receive a diagnosis and treatment, that I set out to get my Master’s degree. This was an endeavor that I wanted to put my all into, but I knew I could only do this if I had the flexibility offered by completing an online program. Thanks to the demand for increased accessibility to education, I was able to receive a Master’s degree in 14 months and graduate Summa Cum Laude. While I would love more than anything to get my Ph.D., that hurdle is one I know I will need additional resources to tackle.

My personal experience has played a powerful role in my decision to create a space where support is accessible to all. I value my ability to look across the table (or the screen) and share with you what tools, tips, and tricks I have personally used to help me create the life that I want and deserve.

Amanda Wolcott, M.S.P.

CEO & Founder