Hello! My name is Keegan Gilsenan, and I was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2018. My primary areas of interest are gluten-free food insecurity, mental and physical health with celiac disease, and navigating school as a celiac.
Making a Difference
Living with or without a celiac disease diagnosis is hard enough. Finding and paying for gluten-free food should not be an issue. Everyone should have access to a gluten-free diet. That is why I started the Green Mountain Gluten Free Access Project with a simple mission: to supply food pantries in Vermont with expanded and cheaper access to celiac-friendly, gluten-free products.
Also, gut health affects your mood and mental health; the gut is your second brain. Furthermore, there is more to celiac disease than just stomach issues. It also causes fatigue, headaches, and anxiety. Living with celiac disease can sometimes be difficult even when gluten-free options are easily accessible.
Offering Support
As a recent college graduate, I understand the hardships of navigating high school and college with celiac disease. Advocating for yourself with dining services, finding celiac-friendly spots to go with your friends, or getting accommodations from your school sometimes seems daunting, but it is worth your time and energy to feel more comfortable and safe.
Please feel free to contact Beyond Celiac and get in touch with me if you have any questions or need to speak with someone!