I am 27 and have been dealing with juvenile psoriatic arthritis since the age of 13.  This is an inflammatory arthritis condition that causes joint pain and swelling, and has resulted in reduced range of motion in both my hands and ankles.  I played competitive ringette and hockey before I was diagnosed, and have always enjoyed being active and feel better when I am.  Due to the stress of having this condition I have also struggled with anxiety and depression.  Several years ago the medication that had been helping me function fairly normally stopped working, and my symptoms worsened.  Once I found another medication that worked I wanted to begin the process of getting fit and strong again. I knew I needed a trainer who had experience with medical conditions and joint issues, as gripping can be difficult for me which means that I am not a candidate for typical weight training programs. I also wanted to work with someone who understood the psychological challenges that come with dealing with a chronic health problem.  And I wasn't in the best shape because of the pain I had been in before finding a new med.

 

I found Jennifer one year ago through an online search and am so happy I did!   She takes all the different issues and potential limitations into consideration during our sessions and find ways to work around them.  She has even found a way for me to do planks and squats despite reduced ankle flexibility, and incorporate all kinds of techniques that have enabled me to get stronger and not get hurt doing so. She has always been positive and hopeful about what I am capable of achieving. I even started running, with her encouragement and expertise, and did a 5 km race last fall!  I feel SO much better, Jennifer, thank you so much for everything.