“I can honestly say that had I not embraced every morsel of knowledge and used the tools I gained access to as an IHP2 then my daughter would not be here today.”
At the Integrative Health Practitioner Institute (IHPI), we are privileged to spotlight one of our exceptional Integrative Health Practitioners, Fraser Bridgeman. She has a background as a personal trainer, Judo coach, and a degree in psychology. Fraser's journey into integrative health and the special needs community is emotionally captivating. In this blog, we will delve into Fraser's journey, her experiences, and her impactful work within the special needs community.
The Beginning: A Desperate Search for Answers
Fraser Bridgeman's introduction to integrative health and the special needs community was deeply personal. She shares, “I was drawn to IHPI when I was desperately trying to help my daughter Makayla, who has a very rare genetic condition and a wildly medically complex health history.” Despite the bleak outlook from doctors, Fraser refused to accept this was the end of the story. Her determination led her to discover Dr. Cabral and the concept of functional labs. She says calling this discovery “life-changing” would be an understatement of grand proportions.
When doctors handed Fraser a book on how to grieve her child and make decisions throughout the process of palliative care, she chose to seek alternative solutions instead. Specifically, this pivotal moment ignited her passion for integrative health and the special needs community. “She was dying a few years ago and doctors had given up on how to help her,” Fraser recalls. “I felt deep within me that this could not be the end of the story,” she continues. Furthermore, her relentless pursuit of knowledge led her to IHPI, where she found the tools and resources to help Makayla. “I can honestly say that had I not embraced every morsel of knowledge and used the tools I gained access to as an IHP2 then my daughter would not be here today,” Fraser reflects.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
The journey wasn't easy. Nevertheless, Fraser's commitment to learning and applying integrative health principles had a profound impact. “The ability to run functional lab tests has empowered me as a Rare Disease Mom,” she explains. This empowerment fueled her passion to help other parents and children facing similar challenges. “Every child deserves the opportunity to be the best version of themselves,” she asserts, emphasizing the importance of functional lab testing in achieving this goal.
Fraser's expertise and her certifications from IHPI provided a strong foundation for her integrative health practice. However, it was her personal experience that truly shaped her approach. “This empowerment has lit a fire in me to help other parents and other children who have not been blessed with good health,” she says. Her dedication to integrative health and the special needs community is evident in her work.
Bridging the Gap: Integrative Health and the Special Needs Community
Fraser's dedication extends beyond her personal experience. Additionally, she believes “the special needs community and rare disease community is a space that the need is the greatest for functional medicine and functional lab testing.” This population, she argues, is at the greatest risk for deficiencies and toxicities. “Integrative health can be the bridge to the massive gap of modern medicine and holistic health,” she states, advocating for a balanced approach to complex health needs.
In her practice, Fraser addresses the unique challenges faced by the special needs community. Moreover, she understands that these individuals often struggle with deficiencies, malabsorption, and toxicities. “Filling up deficiencies and removing toxicities is how all people will be the healthiest version of themselves,” she explains. Her holistic approach blends modern medicine with functional health, providing a comprehensive solution for complex needs. “I want to help people understand that when it comes to complex needs, both is best, it does not have to be one or the other,” Fraser emphasizes.
Real-life Transformations
Fraser's work as an Integrative Health Practitioner is marked by numerous success stories. For instance, Makayla's transformation from constant suffering to a life filled with laughter and strength is just one example. Fraser also recounts how many of her clients have recovered from various conditions, including learning disabilities, diabetes, infertility, depression, and anxiety. Fraser is making an impact in the world of integrative health and the special needs community.
“I have been blessed to have a lot of health recovery stories,” Fraser shares. “Definitely Makayla's being on the top of my list, from 24 hours a day of suffering to a child who laughs, and continues to get stronger and healthier every day. The difference is nothing short of a miracle. The difference in her quality of life is astonishing to all that know her.” Additionally, Fraser's clients have experienced similar transformations, recovering from chronic conditions and achieving better health. Her personal journey of overcoming anxiety further underscores the effectiveness of integrative health practices.
The Role of an IHP Health Coach: Supporting Integrative Health and the Special Needs Community
Fraser strongly believes that families with special needs children can benefit greatly from having an IHP Health Coach. “These families are often so overwhelmed and exhausted,” she notes. An IHP Health Coach can guide them step-by-step, offering support in self-care and adrenal health. “At the end of the day, we all just want our kids and families to have their best quality of life,” she emphasizes.
Moreover, an IHP Health Coach familiar with medical complexities can be a game-changer for these families. Fraser explains that having someone to walk them through the process can significantly improve their quality of life. She advocates for integrative health as a critical piece of the puzzle, helping families navigate their unique challenges and achieve better outcomes.
Connect with Fraser Bridgeman, IHP2
To learn more about Fraser Bridgeman and her work, you can visit her website FraserBridgeman.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @fraserb_holistichealth and on Facebook @fraser.bridgeman.
Join the Journey: Integrative Health Practitioner Institute
Fraser's advice to anyone considering joining IHPI is clear: follow your heart and never stop learning. She credits her hunger for knowledge with helping her serve her clients effectively. “If you don't know the answer, never be too proud to ask for help,” she advises, highlighting the supportive network within the IHP community. “I think that is what is great about the IHP community, there is a great big network at your fingertips of people passionate about helping others, something rare in today's day and age. If you don't know the answer, someone there will be happy to help you,” Fraser adds.
At IHPI, we believe in the power of continuous learning and collaboration. Fraser's story exemplifies the transformative impact of integrative health and the special needs community. Additionally, her story is a testament to the profound difference that dedicated, compassionate practitioners can make in their clients' lives through innovative, holistic approaches.
Are you inspired by Fraser's journey? Enroll in the Integrative Health Practitioner Institute's Health Coaching Certifications or schedule a call with an Admissions Counselor today. Discover how you can make a difference in the world of integrative health and the special needs community.
