About Sharon

Bio

You might say I was born to do this job. For more than three decades I have been adopting and applying principles in my own life that I now impart to others as a Health Coach. Throughout my life, I have seen nearly every one of my relatives in my parents’ generation and older — including, unfortunately, both of my parents — stricken with cancer of one variety or another. Grandparents, great-grandparents, uncles and aunts, cousins . . . very few of my blood relatives escaped getting cancer, and for some it came at a frighteningly early age (including my mother, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 40s). No wonder, then, that I grew up feeling like I had a bulls-eye painted on my back.

Prevention and health have therefore been guiding principles of my life. As a young teen, I began to realize that genetics were not the only determining factor in the development of illness and disease. At this time, I began making ever-healthier food choices, which became my way of life. It was also in my late teens that I began the practice of making time for exercise every morning, which I have maintained to this day.

My interest in science and genetics as a teenager led me to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and pursue a 15-year career in research and applied microbiology. Through my schooling and my work, I learned a great deal about the regulation of genes and how this is affected by environmental factors, such as the food we eat and the chemicals we are exposed to in everyday life.

In early 2000, when my children were still very young, I obtained training and certification and began a new, part-time career as a professional freelance makeup artist. While on the surface this would seem a radical change in direction from my first career in science, I found it gratifying to work one-on-one with my clients to help them bring forth their own unique beauty, and I never lost my passionate interest in the underlying science of health and prevention. In fact, it was while working in this field that I began a personal mission to learn everything I could about the significant safety concerns that researchers have discovered with ingredients of top-selling makeup and other personal care products used by millions in this country and around the world.

Today, as a 58-year old mother of three, I am happily eating and feeding my family a whole food, plant-based diet, I still exercise (and do yoga!) daily, and I do my best to minimize my exposure to potentially harmful chemicals in the personal and home care products that I and my family use. I am enjoying excellent health and abundant energy, and I feel – and I am frequently told I look – far younger than my years.

Given my personal story, it was a perfect synergy for me to pursue a career in which I could encourage and support, educate and inspire others as they embark on their personal journeys to transform their lives though better nutrition and embracing a healthier lifestyle. I am passionate about helping you achieve your goals and become a happier, healthier version of you!

For more on my story, see this video courtesy of Chef AJ:

Education

I received my training from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition®. My education has equipped me with extensive knowledge in holistic nutrition, health coaching, and the importance of preventive care. Drawing on my education and experience, I work with clients to help them make the dietary and lifestyle changes that produce real and lasting results.

In May 2012 I completed additional training to become a Food for Life instructor for PCRM (Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine).  In this role, I conduct nutrition and cooking classes, designed by physicians and dietitians, to teach disease prevention through a plant-based, low fat diet.

Contact me by email: sharon@eatwell-staywell.com or phone: 410-615-4631.

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