Hey! I’m Molly Mansfield. I’m a junior in high school and live right outside New Orleans, Louisiana.
Life with Celiac Disease
After a lifelong struggle with unexplained health issues, I was diagnosed with celiac disease in November 2021. I was surprised by my diagnosis because I did not have “normal” celiac signs. Instead, my symptoms included chronic back and joint pain, anxiety, episodic migraines, and respiratory issues. After beginning a strict gluten-free diet, my migraines disappeared, and I was finally able to return to school consistently after months of illness.
Making a Difference
While my physical health improved, the social and mental challenges of eating gluten-free, especially as a teenager, became a new struggle. In response, I created and distributed an informational brochure titled Navigating the Social Side of Celiac, which is now displayed in local medical offices and two hospitals across Louisiana. As a Beyond Celiac Ambassador, I hope to expand Celiac education throughout Louisiana and help build a stronger, more connected Celiac community across the South.