What if the key to healing chronic illness isn’t more medication—but finding doctors who truly listen and treat the root cause?

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of Made for Health, Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine features Denise Tarkington, a patient who shares her remarkable healing journey through cancer, POTS, and chronic illness.

Denise opens up about the frustrations of navigating conventional healthcare, the turning points that led her to explore functional medicine, and the powerful role of self-advocacy and persistence in her recovery. Through addressing root causes—including gut health, nutrition, and inflammation—she found a path toward renewed vitality and hope.

Her story underscores the importance of trusting your instincts, seeking comprehensive care, and partnering with practitioners who listen. This conversation is a testament to the life-changing potential of integrating functional and conventional medicine for long-term healing.

Show Highlights

• Denise’s journey through cancer, POTS, and chronic illness.
• How traditional medical approaches sometimes miss root causes.
• The pivotal role of functional medicine in identifying underlying imbalances.
• Gut health, nutrition, and detoxification as cornerstones of recovery.
• The emotional and psychological challenges of chronic illness.
• Finding doctors who collaborate, listen, and personalize treatment.
• Why self-advocacy is essential in modern healthcare.
• The power of persistence and hope in overcoming long-term illness.
• Lessons learned from integrating functional and conventional medicine.

In This Episode, You Will Learn

• How addressing gut health and nutrient deficiencies can transform chronic illness outcomes.
• Why patients must take an active role in their healing journey.
• How functional medicine approaches differ from conventional treatment models.
• The importance of emotional resilience and supportive healthcare partnerships.
• Practical advice for those navigating complex or misunderstood conditions.

Resources & Links

Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.com

YouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: @AaronHartmanMD