Latest news with #POTS
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The founder of Deliciously Ella started a blog when suffering from severe chronic pain. Now, her multimillion-dollar snack empire is going global
In 2011, when Ella Mills was 20, chronically ill, and bedridden with fatigue, migraines, and heart palpitations up to 190 beats per minute, she nearly passed out when standing. As a student at St. Andrews University, she had to sleep between 16 and 18 hours a day because the fatigue was unbearable. 'You're so dizzy, it's like your head's disconnected from your body,' Mills recalls, who had to go home to manage the symptoms. Mills, now a mother of two who lives in the UK, saw a dozen doctors and underwent over 40 procedures, including visits to endocrinologists and gastroenterologists. Several months later, she was finally diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a disorder involving the autonomic nervous system that causes rapid heartbeat, nausea, brain fog, fainting, and fatigue. There's no official cure for the disorder, which primarily affects women between the ages of 15 and 50—although it has now been tied to post-COVID symptoms. At one point, Mills was on 25 medications a day. None of them worked. 'I very much hit rock bottom, and I think it became really clear that I wasn't doing anything to help myself either,' she says. Like many at a place of hopelessness, Mills turned to the internet. She read stories of countless women who have her disorder, many of whom felt desperate for any way forward and have since turned to medications and a combination of diet and other lifestyle changes. 'I just felt I had nothing to lose but try to kind of overhaul my diet and overhaul my lifestyle, but I couldn't cook and I didn't like vegetables,' she tells Fortune. In 2012, although not a self-proclaimed unhealthy eater, Mills made a change to her diet, opting for natural ingredients and cooking at home. In a desperate plea for help and to keep herself accountable, she posted her cooking trials and tribulations on a blog. Over a decade later, the $20 WordPress blog account named Deliciously Ella transformed into a business that brings in $25 million in revenue yearly, with a cookbook that has sold over 1.5 million copies, and a social media following of over 4 million (a reach far surpassing other plant-based snack competitors in the field). It has become the fastest-growing snack brand in the UK and is now expanding globally with the launch in the U.S. at Whole Foods in May of this year. In 2024, the brand was acquired by Hero Group, a Swiss manufacturer. While the company won't disclose the deal, Mills and her husband share that 'we have had numerous approaches to sell or partner with other food companies over the years, but only this one felt right.' The company is currently valued around $35 million, according to estimates from S&P. 'I taught myself to cook, and I did it on a blog, as I'm a very all-or-nothing person. I was like, I know I need to hold myself accountable,' she says. 'It's taken us a decade of experiments and trials and errors to get to the point where we know how to create genuinely, really good tasting products using only kitchen cupboard ingredients.' The 'accidental founder' Within two years, Mills tells Fortune her site garnered 130 million hits and reached people in about 80 countries. While she was still weaning off medications, Mills's minimalist and home-cooked diet improved her illness. Two years later, she was not on any medications, and her business was growing in step. She began posting more on social media about the recipes she was making and what she was learning. In 2014, she compiled all the recipes into an app, and in 2015, she published a cookbook that sold out before its release, instantly becoming an Amazon and New York Times bestseller. Mills describes herself as an 'accidental founder,' who doesn't have an entrepreneurial brain or the experience scaling a business. 'I'm not trying to pretend to be what I wasn't,' she says. It's no surprise that she wasn't a professional chef or nutritionist, but she marketed herself as a self-proclaimed 'home cook' who wanted to—simply put—feel better. The beginning of the wellness craze A month after the cookbook's release, Mills met her now-husband and business partner, Matt—a finance nerd at heart with the eagerness to scale a brand. Two weeks after she met him, he quit his job to work alongside her, helping her scale her business and build products that aligned with her mission. 'He can't cook. I can't build an Excel spreadsheet,' she says, adding that she never wanted to license the brand to a third party to manufacture products either. 'I put two really obvious skill sets together, and neither of us had any interest in the other person's job.' Deliciously Ella's first product, a cacao and almond energy ball, was released in 2016, followed by a line of other products. As of print, the brand has sold over 100 million products, and the company's membership, available for $2.74 a month, provides access to thousands of recipes, along with meal plans and blog posts. 'It really kind of coincided with this world of wellness starting to form, and the industry taking shape, and people starting to think, 'oh, there's actual commercial value in this,'' she says. 'I felt almost evangelical, just so passionate, about trying to get this to as many people as possible. I didn't really care how many obstacles there were. I didn't care about the fact that it took over my life completely.' Over a decade later, the importance of lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and sleep, in impacting both physical and mental health has become much more mainstream. The craze to limit ultra-processed foods has been featured in headlines, opening up a lane for brands promoting the use of minimal ingredients. Limiting ultra-processed foods has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and early mortality. According to the Cleveland Clinic, diet is an integral pillar, albeit not foolproof, in treatment plans for improving those with POTS. And wellness and lifestyle brands have surged. Companies specializing in healthy eating, nutrition, and weight loss account for $1 trillion of the over $6 trillion wellness industry, a marketplace poised to grow to nearly $9 billion by 2028, according to the Global Wellness Institute. 'I think you have that naive optimism when you start a business. It's so critical because you've got to believe you can do the impossible. But we both just felt like, this is going to be a giant experiment,' she says. 'It was like, how do we create something of meaning, of scale, that's genuinely disruptive to the food industry, but keeping that 100% natural, and never using ultra-processed foods?' Building a brand beyond fads Mills recognizes that if you don't iterate and evolve your brand to meet the demand, you can lose relevancy. However, she didn't want to give in to the latest wellness fads as a way to stay ahead. Deliciously Ella was strategically simple in scope. 'We had a moment where turmeric was everything, where Beyonce wore a kale jumper, and the meat minute boom where the whole world was going to eat Impossible burgers,' she says. 'We're just going to stay in our lane. We've never jumped on any of them.' Mills admits there was a lot of luck to being on the lifestyle train at a time when social media wasn't as noisy and brands were less focused on the harm of ultra-processed foods than they are today. But she credits her success to hustling to create a community of loyal followers and being consistent. 'There are 1,000 more trends that we could jump on, but to me, that isn't a long-term way to build the brand, or actually shift the dial on health,' she says. 'If it doesn't taste good or is way too expensive, it's just not going to stay a part of someone's life.' This story was originally featured on
Newsweek
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Service Dog Visits Aquarium, Dolphins' 'Special' Response Says It All
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A visit to the aquarium took a touching turn when Forest, a golden-retriever service dog, encountered the facility's dolphins. The dolphins' unusually strong and curious response to Forest, captured in a viral TikTok video by his owner Ashton McGrady, has left many wondering if they sensed his unique purpose. McGrady, 33, told Newsweek about the video, which has over received 2.5 million views, and what she believed drew the dolphins to Forest. "You won't believe how these dolphins reacted to my service dog," McGrady captioned the video. "I think the dolphins knew he was special." Photos from Ashton McGrady's TikTok video of dolphins at an aquarium reacting to her service dog. Photos from Ashton McGrady's TikTok video of dolphins at an aquarium reacting to her service dog. @radiantlygolden/TikTok McGrady provided insight into the incredible canine companion that captured the dolphins' attention. "Forest is my golden retriever service dog," she said. "He's task-trained to assist with my disabilities, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), syringomyelia, and autism spectrum disorder." Forest performs a wide array of vital tasks, including "cardiac alert, deep pressure therapy, retrieving medication, closing doors or cabinets, removing clothing, meltdown response," and more. The interaction with the dolphins was a first for Forest. "This was the first time he'd ever interacted with marine animals and definitely the first time meeting dolphins," McGrady said, adding that it was "truly something special … It felt like an unusually strong connection—almost like they sensed Forest's purpose." Watching the moment unfold, McGrady was deeply moved by Forest's disposition. "I was completely in awe," she said. "Forest was so calm and curious, and the dolphins were clearly engaged … As someone who relies on Forest for so much, seeing him connect so instinctively with another species was cool. It felt like the dolphins could sense the gentleness in him, or maybe even his purpose. It was a reminder that empathy and connection can transcend species." In the comments section, one former aquarium employee weighed in on the exact phenomenon McGrady witnessed: "I used to work at an aquarium! Dolphins LOVESSSS dogs. They don't understand them. Then find them SOOOO interesting. Same things with strollers. They can feel them roll around with echolocation. It's beautiful," they wrote. McGrady said she hopes this viral moment helps educate the public about the vital role of service dogs. They aren't pets, she added, but "highly trained medical tools and life partners for disabled people." And while Forest is cute, his function in her life is essential to her well-being. "Service dogs do so much more than people realize," McGrady concluded. "[He is] essential to my safety and independence. These dogs perform complex tasks … their presence can truly be lifesaving."
New York Post
09-07-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Teen receives devastating medical diagnoses after doctors dismiss symptoms as ‘anxiety'
At just 19 years old, Sydney's teen Marissa De Santis spends most of her days in and out of the hospital, fainting up to five times a day, frequently seizing and battling chronic pain so intense it's left her bedridden for weeks. But despite her debilitating symptoms, doctors still dismiss her, telling her she 'looks fine' and sending her home. Marissa has Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a complex and poorly understood condition that disrupts how the brain communicates with the body. FND affects movement, sensation, and even organ function — yet many medical professionals know little about it, and there's no cure. 'I just want to be independent,' Marissa told 'People have no idea what it is. They look at me and think I look fine.' Marissa's symptoms started in high school. She struggled to concentrate, felt constantly sick, and was often sent home vomiting or in pain. In 2022, she managed to graduate, but months later her health took a steep dive. Marissa has Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a complex and poorly understood condition that disrupts how the brain communicates with the body. Gofundme She developed Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) that left her fainting every time she stood, sometimes collapsing on the stairs or in the shower. She's had seizures that left her shaking violently on the floor, with her two most recent ones on Monday. For five weeks earlier this year she was completely bedridden, unable to stand without passing out. She's since been admitted to hospital for a week at a time — but doctors usually just check her vitals, give her some pain medication and send her home. 'No one really knows what to do,' she said. 'I've had so many tests, they all come back fine.' And that's the kicker; People with FND do appear 'fine' on paper, but inside, their body is fighting for its life. After seeing doctor after doctor and being told it was all in her head or it was 'just anxiety', Marissa began to lose hope. 'My body was shutting down, and I was overwhelmed and exhausted beyond words. 'Then one afternoon, everything changed — my body started shaking violently. I lost control. I had a full-body seizure. My eyes locked shut. I couldn't speak, move, or cry for help. 'That was the moment I knew — this wasn't just anxiety. It was real.' Marissa's younger sister Helena, now 17, was diagnosed with FND at just 14. Helena also collapses, suffers seizures and lives with chronic pain, though Marissa's condition is more severe. Their mother Sylvia said that although it hasn't made it any easier, she was able to recognize Marissa's symptoms earlier. 'It's just heartbreaking,' said Sylvia. 'I want them to be better. There's no help, there's no answers, it's so frustrating.' 'Marissa should be worrying about who she's going to party with, not whether she can stand in the shower.' 'I just research and push doctors to listen. But I can no longer work or provide,' she said tearfully. Sylvia has had to quit working for their family's dog grooming business to take on the role of full-time carer in her home. 'We may need to look at selling our house. It's a constant battle,' she says tearfully. The family spends tens of thousands of dollars every year on weekly psychologists, fortnightly psychiatrists, cardiologists, neurologists, pain specialists, rehabilitation programs and even hypnotherapy. Marissa is also taking over 10 medications to help manage her condition, including for her heart and seizures. Marissa De Santis and service dog, Moose. Gofundme Earlier this year, Marissa was also diagnosed with autism level 2. Her care team believes autism contributed to her nervous system 'overloading,' triggering the FND. Marissa's autism diagnosis has meant the family now has access to minimal NDIS support but FND and POTS are yet to be recognize on their own. Recently, Marissa's family surprised her with a visit from a service dog named Moose. 'When Moose visited Marissa, her heart rate dropped drastically,' said her mum. Moose carries a hefty fee of $30,000 but will allow Marissa to regain a sense of independence and a better quality of life. He will be able to notify her of oncoming seizures or fainting spells. He will also be able to press a doorbell that sends an alert in case of emergencies and assist Marissa in learning how to walk again using his walking frame. Marissa has bravely spoken out about her condition for the first time, creating a GoFundMe to raise money to have access to Moose, who she says would be a lifeline. 'With a Moose by my side, I could reclaim parts of my life that I've lost — and maybe even feel safe enough to go outside on my own again,' she said. Marissa says all she wants is a bit of awareness about what she's going through. 'People have no idea what it is, but disabilities can be invisible. People often make a quick judgement but you can't tell what's going on inside someone's head.'
News.com.au
09-07-2025
- Health
- News.com.au
Teen told it's ‘all in her head' before receiving devastating diagnoses
At just 19 years old, Sydney's teen Marissa De Santis spends most of her days in and out of the hospital, fainting up to five times a day, frequently seizing and battling chronic pain so intense it's left her bedridden for weeks. But despite her debilitating symptoms, doctors still dismiss her, telling her she 'looks fine' and sending her home. Marissa has Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a complex and poorly understood condition that disrupts how the brain communicates with the body. FND affects movement, sensation, and even organ function — yet many medical professionals know little about it, and there's no cure. 'I just want to be independent,' Marissa told 'People have no idea what it is. They look at me and think I look fine.' Marissa's symptoms started in high school. She struggled to concentrate, felt constantly sick, and was often sent home vomiting or in pain. In 2022, she managed to graduate, but months later her health took a steep dive. She developed Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) that left her fainting every time she stood, sometimes collapsing on the stairs or in the shower. She's had seizures that left her shaking violently on the floor, with her two most recent ones on Monday. For five weeks earlier this year she was completely bedridden, unable to stand without passing out. She's since been admitted to hospital for a week at a time — but doctors usually just check her vitals, give her some pain medication and send her home. 'No one really knows what to do,' she said. 'I've had so many tests, they all come back fine.' And that's the kicker; People with FND do appear 'fine' on paper, but inside, their body is fighting for its life. After seeing doctor after doctor and being told it was all in her head or it was 'just anxiety', Marissa began to lose hope. 'My body was shutting down, and I was overwhelmed and exhausted beyond words. 'Then one afternoon, everything changed — my body started shaking violently. I lost control. I had a full-body seizure. My eyes locked shut. I couldn't speak, move, or cry for help. 'That was the moment I knew — this wasn't just anxiety. It was real.' Marissa's younger sister Helena, now 17, was diagnosed with FND at just 14. Helena also collapses, suffers seizures and lives with chronic pain, though Marissa's condition is more severe. Their mother Sylvia said that although it hasn't made it any easier, she was able to recognise Marissa's symptoms earlier. 'It's just heartbreaking,' said Sylvia. 'I want them to be better. There's no help, there's no answers, it's so frustrating.' 'Marissa should be worrying about who she's going to party with, not whether she can stand in the shower.' 'I just research and push doctors to listen. But I can no longer work or provide,' she said tearfully. Sylvia has had to quit working for their family's dog grooming business to take on the role of full-time carer in her home. 'We may need to look at selling our house. It's a constant battle,' she says tearfully. The family spends tens of thousands of dollars every year on weekly psychologists, fortnightly psychiatrists, cardiologists, neurologists, pain specialists, rehabilitation programs and even hypnotherapy. Marissa is also taking over 10 medications to help manage her condition, including for her heart and seizures. Earlier this year, Marissa was also diagnosed with autism level 2. Her care team believes autism contributed to her nervous system 'overloading,' triggering the FND. Marissa's autism diagnosis has meant the family now has access to minimal NDIS support but FND and POTS are yet to be recognised on their own. Recently, Marissa's family surprised her with a visit from a service dog named Moose. 'When Moose visited Marissa, her heart rate dropped drastically,' said her mum. Moose carries a hefty fee of $30,000 but will allow Marissa to regain a sense of independence and a better quality of life. He will be able to notify her of oncoming seizures or fainting spells. He will also be able to press a doorbell that sends an alert in case of emergencies and assist Marissa in learning how to walk again using his walking frame. Marissa has bravely spoken out about her condition for the first time, creating a GoFundMe to raise money to have access to Moose, who she says would be a lifeline. 'With a Moose by my side, I could reclaim parts of my life that I've lost — and maybe even feel safe enough to go outside on my own again,' she said. Marissa says all she wants is a bit of awareness about what she's going through. 'People have no idea what it is, but disabilities can be invisible. People often make a quick judgement but you can't tell what's going on inside someone's head.'
Axios
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Booze-free cocktail cookies bring bold flavor
If you love the taste of classic cocktails, but could do without the booze, there's a new dessert to satisfy your craving. The big picture: Chicago company Royce+Reign makes espresso martini, old fashioned and margarita-flavored cookies with real alcohol that retains the flavor but burns off in the baking process, making it a zero-proof treat. A flight of all three is $16, and two cookies of one flavor are $13. Flashback: Jessica Lang started Royce+Reign (named after her godchildren) late last year. Lang had been diagnosed with POTS a few years earlier and was limiting alcohol to keep her symptoms under control. The founder also jokes that she was born with a sweet tooth. What they're saying: "In one way, it's combining two things that I really love," Lang tells Axios. "But I also see in the market this trend of people who are sober curious, and were looking for new ways to socialize that aren't so alcohol focused." State of play: After many tests with food scientists, Lang landed on a pâté du fruit filling for the old-fashioned and margarita cookies. The jelly-like texture of the old fashioned is where the bitters of the cocktail are meant to hit after tasting the orange-essenced, smoky bourbon-tinged cookies. The margarita has a salty, agave center between sweet lime cookies. The espresso martini has a marshmallow filling in a chocolate sandwich.
