Gardening has always been my sanctuary. It’s where I find peace, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment. There’s something deeply grounding about tending to the soil, watching tiny seeds push through the earth, and nurturing plants as they grow into something beautiful and nourishing. It’s my stress relief, my escape, my therapy. But recently, I received news that shook me—something I never saw coming.

I have allergies. 🤧

Not just mild seasonal sniffles but an immune system that has decided to rebel against the very things that bring me joy—pollen, dust, mold spores, and even my pets. It was frustrating, disheartening, and, honestly, a little overwhelming. Gardening has never just been a hobby for me; it’s an essential part of my mental well-being. The idea that my body would react negatively to what I love most felt like a betrayal.

At first, I struggled with what this meant for me as a gardener. Would I have to limit my time outdoors? Would I have to stop altogether? Was this the end of my hands-in-the-dirt, early-morning greenhouse moments? I went through all the emotions—denial, frustration, sadness—until I decided I wasn’t going to let this stop me.

I started researching, talking to doctors, and, after much thought, making a decision: I’m starting immunotherapy.

This isn’t an overnight fix. It’s a process—one that will take patience and persistence—but if it means I can continue doing what I love without my body fighting against me, it’s worth it. Gardening has always been about resilience, about finding ways to adapt and grow despite challenges. And now, I get to apply that same mindset to my health.

This experience has also given me a new appreciation for the little things—the moments I might have taken for granted before: the way the sun feels on my back while I plant seedlings, the smell of damp soil after a rain, and the simple joy of watching bees dart between flowers.

If you’ve ever faced a challenge that made you question whether you could keep doing what you love, I want you to know you’re not alone. Life throws obstacles at all of us, but that doesn’t mean we have to give up. Sometimes, we have to find new ways to keep going.

So, as I step into this next season, preparing for spring with my usual excitement, I do so with a new perspective. I may have allergies, but I’m still a gardener. And I will keep growing—both in my garden and within myself.

If you’re facing obstacles, I encourage you to find your way forward. Adapt, adjust, and hold onto the things that bring you joy, even if it takes a little extra effort. Because, in the end, it’s always worth it.