Empowerment Series: Senior Social & Influencer Manager, Beauty Influencer & Former Journalist, Mabel Martinez Talks Health with AW

According to the American Thyroid Association, it is estimated that 20 million people in the US have thyroid disease, and as many as 60% don’t know they have it. Thyroid Disease is any dysfunction of the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck (thyroid). Thyroid disorders affect women ten times more than men.

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of the thyroid hormone.

In June 2022, I was diagnosed with Graves Disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). My weight dropped to 85 pounds. I experienced hand tremors, night sweats, hair loss, depression, anxiety, and extreme heart palpitations. It was the worst, I’ve ever felt in my life. My primary physician referred me to an Endocrinologist, who confirmed my diagnosis after a thyroid panel and antibody testing. Having annual checkups was key to early detection. I felt afraid and alone but learned that I was not the only person experiencing this struggle.

Mabel Martinez is a former Journalist who worked at top-tier publications like People Magazine, Glamour Magazine, Siempre Mujer, El Diario La Prensa, and other platforms. Her career pivoted when she took the Social Media and Communications Coordinator role at Dress for Success, followed by Junior Copywriter at Bare Minerals. The Dominican beauty then moved on to carve a path at L’Oreal, where she worked at Maybelline, managing social strategy. She orchestrated the viral success of the Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick “Thrill Seeker.” Currently, Mabel is a major global beauty brand’s Senior Social & Influencer Manager.

In December of 2022, the social media maven experienced a health scare amid a thriving career. She was asymptomatic and did not experience signs of illness. Her life was turned upside down, while doctors tried to figure out what was happening. It forced her to prioritize herself and make some changes. She was diagnosed with Hashimotos, an inflammation of the thyroid gland causing the underproduction of the thyroid hormone.

My first time meeting Mabel was a bonding experience. We exchanged details of our condition, which opened the door to connection. AW had the beautiful opportunity to sit with her and discuss Thyroid Disorder, treatment, managing stress, and lifestyle changes.

We both chose to share our story to help spread awareness and bring attention to the sometimes, silent disease. Hopefully, it will be a reminder to schedule annual checkups and listen to your body.

What has the journey of Hashimoto’s been like for you? When did you know that something was wrong? It started during a yearly physical in December 2022. The doctor noticed that my neck was enlarged. Initially, he ordered an ultrasound, and a few weeks later, he requested an ultrasound biopsy. They found a tumor attached to my thyroid and collected cells to test whether these were normal or cancerous. After waiting three weeks, it came back that the cells were not normal and I had a five to fifteen percent chance of cancer. I was referred to an ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist, who walked me through everything. He confirmed a large tumor next to my thyroid. In some cases this requires monitoring but mine had to be taken out because it could develop into cancer.

There was no pain or symptoms nor did I feel any different. My blood work was abnormal, and after additional testing, there was confirmation of Hashimoto’s diagnosis. It is an autoimmune disorder, my immune system was attacking my thyroid, which caused inflammation and then resulted in a swelling of the neck.

Having any health scare is life-changing. What lifestyle changes have you implemented since your diagnosis to help improve your physical and mental well-being? I’ve done a lot of research, and have changed my diet, as much as possible. I need to eat anti-inflammatory foods and get rid of wheat, gluten, and soy, to name a few. Once in a while, I enjoy pasta, burgers, and pizza in moderation. I try to focus on whole-grain, high-fiber foods, antioxidant foods (blueberries), and healthy fats (salmon and avocado). Also, I read that Selenium and turmeric powder are good for your system, so I like to add them to my shakes, once a day.

Life happens, all at the same time. As women, we are so busy taking care of everyone else. We end up putting ourselves last on the priority list. Thyroid disorders affect women ten times more than men. In your opinion, what are some things we can do, aside from annual physicals to help keep a healthy thyroid? It doesn’t guarantee you won’t get it but every bit helps. Regular checkups and reducing stress are key. It impacts your physical and mental well-being, and if you let it, spiral out of control. Work on your stress levels, exercise helps release toxins, and increase serotonin. Also, journaling and meditation are great for managing stress.

What is one lesson you have learned from this experience? One lesson learned is that it’s ok not to be busy and booked constantly. What happened to me was a wake-up call. My body was screaming for help and I was not listening. Since then, I’ve been very intentional with what I do, say yes to, and who I surround myself with. I do not want to be in that place anymore. I want to live my life and be healthy.

We like to end interviews with a message of encouragement, mantra, or quote for our community. Can you offer some words of support for anyone who may be dealing with their health scare? My  mantra is “I let go of any negative thoughts and embrace positivity and healing.” It’s hard but don’t sweat the small stuff. Change your mindset and stay positive.

AW appreciates Mabel for sharing her story with our community. It’s never easy to allow ourselves to be seen, especially when it is related to our health. Thankfully, she is doing well and in a much stronger place.

As for myself, I am on a minimal dose of medication and get regular blood work to monitor the condition. The goal continues to be getting me into remission, one day. While I experienced my hell, another woman is beginning hers. We are lucky to have had the resources and early detection. Paying attention to your health, scheduling annual physicals, and prioritizing yourself is critical.  Your well-being matters, do not neglect it!

To learn more about Mabel, visit http://www.mabelmartinez.com or Instagram@msmabelmartinez

Watch the AW Confidential Podcast for the interview and sidebar conversations. Also, available on our YouTube channel.

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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