Iris Smith Email & Phone Number

Camano Island, Wa.

I started a Celiac support group under the umbrella of the Celiac Disease foundation. They are located in Woodland Hills , Ca. As Support group Facilitator (here in Washington State), I facilitate a self help group because I share in the challenges of Celiac Disease. I'm able to direct others in the successes I've had in living with the disease. The group is a place for people with Celiac Disease and other gluten related disorders to be themselves and come to terms with their diagnosis. My group is a source of information , which includes CDF educational materials and community resources and support. The group also provides a place to be able to confidentially share, learn, and help others. The Group members discover a place where they can receive information that is accurate and up to date, as well as come to terms with living with Chronic illness. I also have established a blog at celiacdisease.tips. The Blog provides recipes, and ideas on Thriving with Celiac disease instead of just surviving. On this Blog I share my own journey, and struggle ,as well as family photos and stories. My hope is that this blog inspire others living with Chronic illness to have a more uplifting positive approach to their own situation, and in the process of coming to terms with it, may inspire and effect others to enjoy, and not just endure.

Greenfield Ma.

In the 1980's I worked with the Association for retarded citizens as Recreation Coordinator. I loved the idea of planning and coordinating events to encourage people and children with disabilities. Having disabilities of my own from a childhood illness encouraged me too. I also did volunteer recruitment to assist on the trips.. I loved watching people make a difference. Later I went on to study Nutrition, and music theory. I wanted to utilize some of these other skills in the different aspects of ministry I was later called to. Today, I work at camps in the summer (Joni and Friends Retreats), inspiring adults and children with disabilities in a camp setting. The activities and relationships you experience are precious and it's an experience I'll always remember. At the camps, I have hosted the talent nights for 9 years, encouraging individuals with disabilities to display their talents and enjoy just being themselves, while inspiring others. Such a joy to be a part of! This year I will be overseeing the women to women groups. This is where women can share together from a bible based perspective the struggles they face with the disabilities they are experiencing. Also the challenges they face on a daily basis. When I had attended groups myself, I found it very helpful. I came away with a much more confident perspective of who I am, and how I could make a difference by being others oriented, and using my own struggles with disability to inspire others. The camps are always looking for volunteers, check it out if you have an interest in making a difference, while having fun! I also, work as a writer writing newsletters to encourage those struggling through life, to inspire them to press on and make a difference! The letters can be seen at my website at www.ihsteps.com where other writers are hosted as well.

Recreational Leadership, Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy And Minored In Nutrition

Activities and Societies: I study and research nutrition. I study and attend Italian speaking groups! I also studied music and music.

High School Diploma, College