One of the challenges of aging is seeing those around you, peers, family, and friends, pass away or get ill. I remember when my father, in his 80’s, told me that he was no longer going to the Naval Officer’s Club because it was depressing to see how few were left…
In loving memory of a remarkable woman who showed us how to live with purpose until age 93.
Today, I'm sharing a deeply personal story about loss, legacy, and the profound lessons that come from watching our elders live extraordinary lives. My beloved Taunte Helène, my mother's youngest sister and closest friend, passed away recently. As the last of our family's greatest generation, her passing marks a significant transition in my life – I now stand as my family matriarch, with no parents, grandparents, aunts, or uncles above me.
Lessons in Resilience
Taunte Helène's life wasn't without profound challenges. She endured:
Multiple wars
The occupation of her family home
Living in exile in Egypt for 2 years
The loss of her husband
The heartbreaking loss of two children
The passing of all her siblings
Yet, she remained a beacon of strength, grace, and joy. I know that in each of our lives, we have faced adversity, challenges, grief, and more. I know I have. Her secret? A powerful combination of:
Deep faith in God and Blessed Mother Mary
Regular acts of kindness
An unwavering positive attitude
A wonderful sense of humor
Strong family connections
Challenging Ageism and Living Without Limits
Taunte Helène's life challenges our modern assumptions about aging. When a realtor recently suggested I avoid houses with stairs due to my age, I thought of my aunt climbing many flights of stairs well into her 80s. Her example teaches us that we shouldn't let age create artificial limitations.
Keys to Longevity and Joy
What contributed to her long, meaningful life? I believe it was:
Strong faith and spiritual practice
Regular physical activity
Close family connections
Weekly family dinners
Celebration of life's milestones
Regular social interaction
Maintaining a positive attitude
Acts of kindness
These elements create what I call "oxytocin-producing moments" – crucial for longevity and quality of life.
Your Guide to Living a Legacy of Health and Resilience
Inspired by Taunte Helène's example, here are practical steps for creating your own legacy of health and resilience:
1. Nourish Your Body Daily
- Start each morning with my alkalizing detox drink
- Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods
- Consider adding Mighty Maca® Plus to support your energy and vitality
2. Move with Purpose
- Take daily walks
- Choose a movement that brings you joy
- Remember: every step counts
3. Cultivate Spirit and Faith
- Practice daily gratitude
- Embrace prayer or meditation
- Journal your thoughts and feelings
4. Nurture Connection
- Prioritize family time
- Create traditions
- Share meals together
5. Challenge Your Limits and Limiting Beliefs About Aging
- Set new goals
- Stay curious
- Embrace continuous learning
6. Find Reasons to Laugh and Celebrate
Find moments of #OxyPlay every day
A Legacy of Laughter and Faith
Taunte Helène's life was a masterclass in finding joy amid life's challenges. One of my favorite stories involves her and my mother during their days at boarding school in Palestine, where they would playfully place frogs at the Carmelite nuns' doorstep. The image of startled nuns and jumping frogs never failed to make my mother (and me) laugh – a memory I now treasure even more.
But what truly defined her was her unwavering faith. Every morning at 5 AM, she would climb two flights of stairs to her home and attend Mass at our family church on Mount Carmel. Even in her 90s, when her strength began to fade, she continued this practice on Sundays and special occasions, taking what she called "one baby step at a time."
Supporting Your Journey
To help you on your path to vibrant health at any age, explore:
The Hormone Fix - For hormone balance and vitality
Mighty Maca® Plus - For natural energy and resilience
Keto-Green™ Protocol - For sustainable wellness
Signs of Comfort - A “God Winks” Moment
This morning, as I processed my grief, nature offered its own form of comfort. Three crows appeared on my lawn – a rare sight that traditionally symbolizes the presence of loved ones watching over us. Two more joined them, representing community and transformation. Even a playful squirrel appeared, reminding me of the importance of adaptability and finding joy in life's simple moments.
A Final Reflection
As I step into my new role as family matriarch, I'm reminded that our greatest legacy isn't in the years we live, but in how we live them. Taunte Helène showed us that each day is an opportunity to choose faith, joy, and purpose – one baby step at a time.
What limiting beliefs about aging are you ready to challenge? How will you honor your health and spirit today?
With love and purpose,
Dr. Anna
