Hidden Epidemic

About the book

In 2005, a popular South African magazine published an article on Mariëtte Chippindall’s journey from a depressed, overweight woman with an undiagnosed thyroid problem, to being a Mrs South Africa 2005 finalist (a title she won two weeks later). The reaction was astonishing: more than 6?000 people phoned her over a period of three weeks. This was a cry for help from those who were desperate about their own thyroid-related problems. It made Mariëtte realise that she had stumbled upon a hidden epidemic. In this unique book, Mariëtte recounts the ignorance, desperation and heartache she experienced on her journey back to health, and the glamour and happiness she regained as a healthy woman and beauty queen. She also speaks of the meaning and fulfilment she finds in her life task: to help other thyroid sufferers track down the correct diagnosis and treatment. And she shares the hard-won information that helped her on the road to recovery, with the help of top doctors, pharmacists and researchers. A must-read for anyone who values their health and well-being.