Check Out Hanna Wimberly’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hanna Wimberly

Hanna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi, I’m Hanna Wimberly, and I’ve been on quite the journey—both personally and professionally. Born and raised in Missouri, I graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia (MIZ!) with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, emphasizing Social Justice. My passion for helping others and advocating for meaningful policy changes at both the state and federal levels has been a driving force in my life. I have always been extremely passionate, if you ask those close to me, they’d probably say I’m a bit too passionate at times. But that passion comes from my parents, who instilled in me the values of kindness and community service with no expectation of getting anything in return. This desire intensified when my niece was born. My parents and I have raised her basically since the day she was born and now she is a teenager! Navigating the court system and witnessing small-town political corruption opened my eyes to the flaws in Missouri’s laws. This fueled my determination to improve the lives of children and families through systemic change.
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While I’ve donned many professional hats since age 15–a pharmacy technician, a policy assistant for the Missouri department of Workforce development, juvenile officer for children being abused and neglected and more—everything came to a halt in February 2020. I never would have anticipated what was about to unfold.

Right before the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I fell sick with what we now know was COVID-19. At the time, we had no clue what it was. One morning, while getting ready for work, I was hit with the usual cold/flu symptoms—fever, chills, vomiting, sore throat—but deep down, I knew something was off. I hadn’t thrown up since I was a kid. Still, I brushed it off until a week later, I found myself pulling over at a gas station while driving down the highway, calling EMTs because I felt dizzy, short of breath, faint like and well, terrified.

What followed was a relentless cycle of ER visits, scans, and tests. Specialist dismissed my symptoms, repeatedly telling me everything was “normal” and that I was just experiencing anxiety. Spoiler alert–nothing was normal–I was having panic attacks every single day, sometimes multiple times a day. At the time I didn’t believe that I was having panic attacks. They were so intense that I thought I was having a heart attack and that something serious was wrong with me. I was essentially arguing with doctors and specialists for over 6 months trying to explain to them that it was not anxiety or panic attacks…though eventually I came to realize that is what was happening, along with other things, one being long-covid, which comes with a whole host of symptoms and issues. The constant fear and anxiety left me co-dependent on those around me. My driving became a major issue; the very act triggered panic attacks and I needed others to drive me around…at one point, I honestly couldn’t even be in a car without having a panic attack or being afraid of potentially having a panic attack and I became extremely fearful of the physical, debilitating panic attack symptoms. Even now, though they are rare, panic attacks are still something I am working through. They compare the physical symptoms of a panic attack to a heart attack for a reason. Panic attacks are no joke, and I wouldn’t wish them on anyone.

The worst part was that I could pinpoint exactly when it all started—right after COVID. The anxiety, panic attacks, and the strange feeling of not feeling myself. 6+ months later, desperate for some sort of relief, I very reluctantly tried anxiety medication and started therapy. Though both helped, it was a rollercoaster ride–one medication would make me feel weird and I would have to try a new one or the one that I did feel worked pretty well only brought temporary respite before losing its magic (which I learned is apparently “normal” which is a whole other topic). But just when I was literally in a downward spiral, my mom discovered information regarding Long-COVID. By this point, we were deep into the pandemic and this revelation was a game changer. I began learning about the effects of COVID/Long-COVID and what Long-COVID was. I started connecting the dots between my symptoms and the lingering effects of the virus and using this info to help my symptoms and anxiety every single day. I was finally able to learn that I was in fact not going crazy and that I was experiencing brain fog, extreme fatigue, inflammation, heart palpitations, and a host of other daily symptoms and issues directly linked to Long-COVID…not to mention the anxiety and panic attacks. I began connecting with others in Long-COVID support groups on facebook and instagram which helped me feel less alone and provided valuable insights. I eventually started my own instagram called @healing.with.hanna that you can check out, which I believe is how Voyage KC found me.

My mom also introduced me to something called diaphragmatic breathing, or “belly breathing”, that she found through all her research, and it was and still is one of the only things that helps calm me down and regulates my nervous system. It is a crucial part of my everyday routine – even today.

I eventually started working again–at that point I was a juvenile officer for abused and neglected children. I was by no means, “better” and I was still having panic attacks, but they weren’t as often and I had learned to manage them better and work through them with the various tools I’d picked up in therapy and in my own research–which I eventually learned so many different ways to tackle my anxiety and panic attacks.

Throughout my quest for healing, I rediscovered and rekindled my love for health and wellness. I was always very active, reading ingredients and conscious of what I was putting in my body and was always active growing up–playing multiple sports and continued that in college too. I learned I had just lost sight of all of that after I got sick with covid and really lost myself and my love for health and wellness. I began to embrace the small things and started doing what made me feel more like me again, what made me feel better even if it was for a short time, and started noticing what didn’t make me feel well too. I started incorporating things I knew I enjoyed–like walking, pickleball, golf and meditating, while also ditching all toxic products. I focused on eating organic, whole food ingredients rather than ultra processed and processed foods, and with the support of a new functional doctor that I found in Kansas City, I adopted a more holistic approach to health and wellness. I eventually came off my anxiety medication and it has been about a year since being off of it. I truly just started to better understand my body and started listening to its wants and needs. Our bodies are amazing and can tell us exactly what is going on if we just listen to it.

Fast forward to today—it is now 2024, 4 years since contracting covid-19. Since then, I contracted it 2 more times (that I know of, for sure). While I have grown and made significant progress, I am in no way “healed” and anxiety is still a constant companion. I have just learned to better understand it and it’s MANY ways of showing up and learned it is part of a larger issue. Anxiety and being in a constant state of fight or flight is often the result of a dysregulated nervous system. In my case, COVID has played a significant role in this. When your body is stuck in a sympathetic state—always on high alert—it struggles to function properly. This impacts everything from your gut microbiome to your brain, and the effects ripple throughout your body. It can lead to weight fluctuations, hair loss, brain fog, gut issues, skin irritations, anxiety/depression and more (all of which I have been experiencing for 4 years now.) Your body is simply trying to protect itself. The solution? Go back to the basics.

My doctor and I have recently been doing extensive blood work, including heavy metal testing, and we’re diving deeper with an inflammation marker lab test to track my progress. We’re constantly discussing the broader effects of long COVID on my body, beyond just the anxiety. There are so many small, lingering impacts. But through asking questions, researching, and advocating for myself, it’s been a little easier. I’m also navigating this journey with the help of my doctor, family and friends which are also great supports to have. It has not been easy and there are definitely still days where I feel horrible and days where I can barely get out of bed or off the couch….but….Healing takes time, it is not linear. It ebbs and flows like the tides, with progress sometimes feeling like you have taken a few steps forward and others like a giant leap backwards. You just need to give yourself the grace and patience to find what works best for you.

Currently, I am enrolled in a holistic health and nutrition coaching program with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN), where I will eventually be board certified. Through this program, I have been trained in bio-individuality, multidimensional health, and evidence-based coaching modalities from some of the world’s leading doctors, therapists and other experts. I am creating my own business and work with clients one on one to support them and help them make sustainable shifts to achieve their wellness goals while also bringing change to those living with preventable nutrition and lifestyle related change. As a Holistic health coach I use a forward-thinking approach as I have done with myself. My support and guidance will be both evidence based and experience based which is a combination of traditional and modern approaches specifically catered to each bio-individual client. What works for one individual might not work for the other. The goal is to help each client create and implement a sustainable plan for achieving their unique health and wellness goals. As a holistic health coach I am a constant support for each client that consists of ongoing adjustments and feedback. While nutrition is at the forefront of enacting real change, there will also be an emphasis on “primary foods” which are the non-food forms of nourishment like relationships, finances, exercise, career, spirituality and so much more.

But my journey doesn’t end there. Alongside my passion for health, I still remain deeply committed to policy reform. I plan to pursue a master’s in public policy, (eventually, lol) with the goal of driving impactful change—especially in child advocacy, education, food policy, and drug rehabilitation. One day, I hope to become a senator, working to create real, lasting change for future generations to come. This is just the beginning and I am beyond excited to continue learning, healing, and advocating for change both in personal wellness and in the policies that shape our democracy.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This journey has been anything but smooth—quite the opposite, in fact. It’s been filled with challenges that have pushed me to my limits and to be honest, everything has been a struggle/challenge, but a few things come to mind:

The ruminating thoughts that come from anxiety and panic attacks, the fear of another attack, and the heightened awareness of every little sensation in my body. Simple tasks became difficult, and I found myself avoiding situations, people or places that could trigger anxiety. At times, it has felt like I have forgotten what it was like not to live in constant fear. It still does. Coupled with brain fog and memory issues from both anxiety and long COVID, it was a struggle to stay present and focused and sometimes still is.

Like I have previously mentioned, since contracting COVID, I’ve faced lingering effects like brain fog, extreme fatigue, and memory problems. I’ve also experienced weight gain, increased inflammation, and an unusual sensitivity to even minor illnesses that come suddenly and stay longer. On top of that, hormonal acne—triggered by stress and anxiety from COVID—has added to my list of frustrations. Having always been confident in my clear skin, this new reality has been a tough pill to swallow.

I’ve always taken pride in being pretty independent, but after COVID, I have found myself relying heavily on those around me. Simple tasks, like driving, became overwhelming. My loved ones have had to make countless sacrifices—canceling plans, driving me places, and supporting me through every anxious moment. For someone who has always been self-reliant, this shift has been mentally and emotionally draining. There were times during panic attacks where I’d lose focus, becoming so fixated on finding relief that I acted out of character, sometimes being inconsiderate to those trying to help. It’s been a humbling journey. I now try to sit in the discomfort (which is very hard to do and takes a lot of practice), instead of ruminating on the thoughts and feelings that I know will quickly leave if I don’t ruminate.

Driving, something I once enjoyed, has become a challenge. Although I still drive when necessary, it no longer feels effortless. Most of the time, I need to mentally prepare, be on the phone with someone, or take breaks – even for short trips.

Another excruciating loss has been the loss of self-confidence. Before COVID, I was full of self-love and felt like my best self. Now, looking back at old photos and memories, I sometimes long for the person I used to be. It’s difficult not to feel limited by my current situation, but I constantly have to remind myself that I’m not alone in this journey. I have a support system, and I’m equipped with the tools to manage these challenges.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
While I’m not actively using my degree at the moment, I hold a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with an emphasis in Social Justice, which I applied during my time as a policy assistant for the Missouri Department of Workforce Development and as a Juvenile Officer for abused and neglected children. One of the most rewarding roles I’ve had was serving as a juvenile officer for children who were abused and neglected—a position I will always be proud of. The time I spent working with children coming into care left a profound mark on me, and I will forever regret leaving that position because of how much it meant to me. Being able to play even a small role in these children’s lives and making a positive impact on their futures is something I hold dear. Working as a juvenile officer is definitely something I will always be proud of.

As a juvenile officer, I had the privilege of playing a significant role in the lives of the children on my caseload. I represented the juvenile court system and actively participated in their custody and treatment plans. I made critical recommendations to the court based on evidence, client history, and statutory requirements, all of which shaped the outcomes for these children. I also assisted legal counsel in preparing petitions, motions, and other legal documents, which gave me invaluable behind-the-scenes experience in addition to the hands-on work with the children. This combination of roles—being both an advocate for the children and an active participant in the legal processes—allowed me to further see firsthand the challenges within the system, ones I had unfortunately already been accustomed to.

What is particularly heartbreaking is that there are thousands of children in Missouri who are being abused or neglected by their parents, caregivers, or even foster care providers. Many of these children end up falling through the cracks, trapped in the same cycles as their family, unable to break free from the trauma they’ve experienced. This reality is what fuels my ongoing passion for policy reform, both at the state and federal levels.

In addition to my background in policy, I am pursuing a board certification as a holistic health and nutrition coach, combining my expertise in political science and social justice with my passion for holistic wellness.
What sets me apart is not only my diverse educational background but also my deep-rooted determination to create real, impactful change. I have a unique ability to approach complex issues from both a policy and a wellness perspective, which allows me to bring a well-rounded and informed approach to any challenge I take on.

My life experiences further distinguish me. I’ve walked through challenging paths myself and come out stronger, which gives me a deep understanding and empathy for those who are struggling. This personal resilience, combined with my professional expertise, fuels my desire to advocate for change and ensure that no one is left behind in the many systems that should be supporting them!!

Whether I’m working in policy, advocating for children, or helping individuals achieve their health goals, my commitment is always to empower others and create lasting change. I’m not just passionate—I’m driven by a profound sense of purpose to make a real difference, both in Missouri and beyond.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
There’s so much more I could dive into—policy issues, our flawed food system, and countless areas where I’m deeply passionate about driving change. I could easily spend hours discussing reform… But right now, I want to share more about my business plan and how I can support people, like myself, who are struggling.

My business offers a range of services that go far beyond the initial free consultation. I’ll act as a partner in clients’ journeys, offering ongoing feedback and adjustments to help them reach their full potential. Whether it’s raising awareness, recognizing patterns, shifting limiting beliefs, or developing a growth mindset, my approach is holistic and rooted in strengths-based support.

I won’t just focus on health in the traditional sense. Instead, I’ll work with clients to set and reach lifestyle and wellness goals that align with their needs and desires, not just on addressing specific symptoms or conditions. For instance, if someone is dealing with a health issue—like gut issues, weight fluctuation, diet, long-COVID, anxiety, brain fog, poor sleep or fatigue—I won’t claim to cure them or give medical advice. What I will do is help clients explore lifestyle changes that support their overall well-being. This could include managing stress, improving sleep, or adjusting movement goals—all while respecting any treatment plans prescribed by their medical providers. When it comes to nutrition, I’ll help clients better understand their bodies and which food choices work best for them. While I wont create strict meal plans or promote fad diets, I’ll encourage them to explore nutrient-dense whole foods that support overall health and well-being while holding them accountable for their choices. Together, we’ll identify goals, I’ll teach clients how to create their own meal plans and empower clients to become resourceful and knowledgeable about dietary theories.

In medical settings, I’ll help clients advocate for themselves, asking the right questions or exploring alternative treatments with their providers. If needed, I’ll refer them to healthcare professionals who share a more holistic approach.

For clients looking to crowd out caffeine, sugar, processed foods, or alcohol, I’ll provide guidance and accountability, but always based on what they want to achieve. This isn’t about telling people what to do—it’s about helping them discover what works best for their bodies and supporting them on their journey. I want to provide a space where clients feel empowered to take charge of their health, in a way that feels very manageable, realistic and personalized. I want my clients to be able to recognize what makes them feel good versus what makes them not feel so great.

And this is just the beginning—once my business is fully established, I have big plans for expanding my offerings. From retreats to workshops and more. I’m excited for what’s to come, and I look forward to supporting others on their journey to wellness.

If you’re dealing with health issues, navigating wellness goals, or simply looking for someone to guide and support you toward a more balanced lifestyle, I’d love to work with you. Together, we’ll explore ways to bring balance and health into your life. Feel free to reach out at [email protected] to schedule a free initial consultation where we can discuss your health and wellness goals, health history, and see if we’re a good fit! You can also follow me on Instagram @healing.with.hanna or message me there, as my website is still under construction. Prices will vary on clients needs/goals, please contact me for more information.

If my story resonates with you or someone you know, if you have questions, or simply want to connect, please never hesitate to reach out. We’re all navigating our own journeys, and we all deserve a support system that empowers us to thrive. Let’s remember to be kind to one another, as we never truly know what someone else may be going through.

I would also like to take this time to thank my mom. We have always been best friends and have always been close. She is, has always been and will always be my best friend and my mom, not just my mom. However, throughout this rough journey of mine, she has gone above and beyond. Advocating for me, researching for me, learning with me, going to all my appointments, driving me everywhere, answering every phone call and every text (which is a lot), the list goes on. She has been right there with me and I truly have absolutely no idea what I would do without her and I know that I dont tell her enough how grateful and thankful for her that I am. I will forever be trying to be just like her and hope I can be the amazing mother she is to me, to my future children. I love you mom and thank you!

Pricing:

• Pricing varies – please contact me for more info

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healing.with.hanna/