In 2008, at just 15 years old, I nearly lost my life after a grueling battle with Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). I spent three harrowing days in the ICU, fighting for my life after a tampon (Playtex Sport) left me in a coma. Surviving was a major feat, but the road to recovery had only just begun. The physical side effects of Menstrual TSS were relentless; every month I endured unbearable period pain. However, the invisible mental impacts—depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and memory loss— profoundly affected my life for many years. 

I’m deeply grateful to the doctors who saved me, but once I left the hospital, support for my recovery was limited. Their primary solution was to prescribe medication, yet they couldn’t say how long my symptoms would last. Navigating life after menstrual toxic shock became a challenge with few resources and little understanding of what I was truly going through. With no one to turn to, my feelings of loneliness and confusion were compounded by the societal narrative that "this doesn't happen anymore," a misconception driven by the scarcity of research and lack of data surrounding women’s reproductive health. The isolation was a breeding ground for additional struggles, including addiction and emotional turmoil.

For over ten years, I used coping mechanisms that ultimately kept me from fully facing and healing from the traumatic impact of menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS). The unresolved experience created a ripple effect, subtly shaping many aspects of my life—from my mental health to my choices and well-being. Without realizing it, I was trying to push away those memories and the emotions they held, but my body kept the score in ways I couldn’t ignore. My period symptoms became so intense and disruptive that I had no choice but to prioritize my health.

I knew I needed real change to see big improvements—and I couldn’t do it alone. I took an intentional and holistic approach, working with a homeopath and hiring a menstrual coach, someone who teaches you how to work with your menstrual cycle to reduce painful period symptoms. The knowledge I gained was life-changing. I went from crying on the bathroom floor during my period to confidently surfing on my first day. I learned how to fuel my body properly and interpret the messages it was sending me.

Through this journey, I reconnected with my body and began a healing process I had unknowingly avoided for years. I gained a newfound sense of autonomy and a deeper confidence in my health. It was transformative and learning these tools earlier would have been life changing.

My evolution inspired the creation of Protect Her Inc. Driven by my own experience, I’m dedicated to ensuring that no girl or woman ever feels as alone and unsupported as I once did. I envision a future where young people are educated about the menstrual cycle and how to manage it prior to entering menarche. I dream of a world where women’s health is prioritized with proactive care, empowering us to address our needs before they become crises, rather than reacting after the damage is done. My journey from near-death to advocacy embodies the spirit of resilience and the transformative power of support and knowledge.