About Melissa

Melissa Dumas, R.H.N., NNCP

I love dogs, I love nature, but also, I love food! I believe that food should be enjoyed and never feared. There are no “good” or “bad” foods. It’s all about balance and doing the best you can. Each day that might look a little different.

My health has, at times, been overwhelming. As far back as I can remember, I had severe digestive issues (which were later diagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome), and I was told there’s really nothing I can do. I had hormonal issues as a teenager which caused extremely painful periods, mood swings and skin issues. By the age of 14 I was on anti-depressants, anti-inflammatories and stomach acid reducers. I was depressed, bloated and in pain all the time. I couldn’t live like a normal teenager, I didn’t even eat at school out of fear of how my stomach would react. I always felt fat, bloated and uncomfortable, which triggered me to try different diets and become obsessed about my food and exercise, which led to emotional food issues including times of excessive dieting/exercising, purging and crying on the floor because I ate a cookie. Nothing made me feel better, but emotionally I was getting worse.

I decided to visit a naturopath and do a complete reset of my body, beginning with a 6-month elimination diet, followed by eating a whole-foods based diet, including supplements to support my gut health. All of my digestive symptoms resolved, and I lost 40lbs in less than a year without trying, despite the fact that I was eating over 3,000 calories a day and didn’t add any extra activity. Eventually, I had so much energy I started walking and working out by choice, and continued to feel better as time went on. That was 15 years ago and while I still eat as well as I can, I do not follow my food intake as strictly and my digestive system has remained strong. At this point I still get bloated if I eat a lot of dairy, but otherwise I feel pretty good!

At the age of 23 I was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition that I had watched my father and other family members suffer from during my childhood. Neurofibromatosis, Type 2 (NF2) causes the body to continually grow benign tumors in the brain, spine and on peripheral nerves. These tumors can cause neurological issues, reduced function, and the only option for treatment at this time is continual invasive surgeries. My MRIs state “innumerable lesions” …aka too many to be counted.

When I was first diagnosed with NF2, I felt helpless and terrified for my future. I just watched my father die of this condition and now this is my fate too? Can I have a family? Can I live a normal life? I had so many questions. But I am not my father, I am so much healthier and stronger. I am already doing better than he was at my age and I’m determined to do everything I can to slow the progression and stay as healthy as possible. I’m also living in a totally different time with more advanced healthcare, knowledge and accessibility options compared to what he had. I have a great support system, and a determination to never give up and to never let this condition ruin my spirit. I used to feel helpless, but now I’m empowered and I love being the key player in my own health journey. NF2 does not define me, but it’s a part of me that I have accepted and will continue to manage throughout my life.

In my personal health journey I found my purpose.  It is now my mission to help others feel empowered to take back their health as well. To learn more about my health journey, visit my Blog.

Why the Name Marces Wellness?

I was looking for something unique and broad, so I could expand as I grew and discovered new passions. Marces is a combination of March and Pisces, my sun sign and birth month. Wellness just seemed fitting because everything I promote is to encourage wellness.

What is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist?

As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, I use evidence-based and science-based tools to help guide clients through their health goals and concerns. Recommendations include dietary and lifestyle. I am trained to look at each individual as a whole. I will look at your complete health history, current lifestyle and health goals. Helping you achieve your optimal health and happiness is my priority.

Scope of Practice and Code of Ethics