NANCY'S STORY:

"In July 2000, I broke my hip and wrist, just a month after learning that I had osteoporosis. My hip healed normally, but I developed RSD ( Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) in my hand. It was my writing hand that was weak, painful when writing, sensitive to cold and touch. I was unable to stretch my hand out completely or to make a fist.

Six months ago, I began yoga practice with Monica twice a week and fit in a third session a week with another instructor. It was a joy to experience my body getting stronger and more flexible. It was a surprise to find that my hand can spread flat and hold my weight (in downward dog). It was a shock to notice that the diagnosis of "permanent RSD condition" has disappeared! I also learned that my bones have gotten stronger so that I no longer are in the osteoporosis category but osteopenia, a less serious bone loss diagnosis.

Thanks, Monica for your upbeat classes, your tough challenges and your enthusiasm for my improvement."

. . . Nancy Cooney, age 67, testimony given June 2004