While its certainly true that vaccines have saved countless lives, the side effects from some may have also caused greater harm. This blog will explore both sides of the current vaccine controversy.

How They Work

Webster’s Dictionary defines a vaccine as a preparation that is administered (as by injection) to stimulate the body’s immune response against a specific infectious agent or disease. In traditional vaccines a part of the disease is killed or altered and given orally or injected into the arm, thigh or buttocks. The COVID-19 mRNA vaccines used a new genetic messaging approach to activate the immune response.

In addition, an irritant of some sort is added to the vaccines to cause a brief local reaction that will attract white blood cells to the area. Those cells will encounter the disease particle. Miraculously, as part of God’s creation, antibody cells soon develop and remember that disease. If seen again, they will destroy it.

The History of Vaccine Development

The smallpox vaccine was developed by Edward Jenner in the 1770’s. A small, live portion from a diseased cow or individual was scratched into the skin. The scratching was the irritant that attracted the white blood cells to develop antibodies. The challenge was to provide a scratch that would attract an immune reaction but not too much to overwhelm and cause the disease. In the 1980’s it was determined that smallpox had been irradicated and that vaccination program ended.

In the 1880’s Louis Pasteur developed a vaccine for anthrax, rabies and cholera. The diphtheria and tetanus vaccines were rolled out in the 1920’s with pertussis following in the 1940’s. Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin developed the polio vaccine in the 1950’s. Measles, rubella and mumps were released in the 1960’s. Other vaccines followed with the most recent COVID-19 vaccines in 2021 to name a few.

The Potential Connection to Autism

In the 1960’s the autism rate was 1 in 10,000 children. In 2000 it increased to 1 in 150. By 2016 it escalated to 1 in 54 and is now 1 in 36. Questions must be raised to evaluate this dramatic increase. Some argue that better criteria for diagnosing autism explains the dramatic increase while others argue that it may be something in the vaccines, the timeline for administration, the number given at any one time, the age of the child vaccinated or something in the food or the environment.

The increase in prevalence has been too rapid and dramatic to be ignored! Reasonable people can agree that it’s imperative to ascertain the answers to these questions…no matter where it leads. However, it’s very expensive to do rigorous accurate studies thus very little incentives remain to get them done.

Pharmaceutical Concerns

In 1986 President Ronald Reagan signed the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act. It was designed to promote vaccine development but essentially allowed pharmaceutical companies to escape significant liabilities for potential harms incurred from their vaccines. Parents have found it extremely difficult to get compensation for vaccine injuries.

It’s important to remember that other drugs and over-the-counter medications that come on the market undergo rigorous research to ensure short and long-term safety. Motivation is high to conduct expensive studies to ensure safety to avoid harm and lawsuits.

However, despite the well-meaning intention of the 1986 act, it has led to an anemic approach to conducting longer term safety research concerning vaccine safety. As an example, in the rush to roll out the COVID-19 vaccines, long term safety research wasn’t done. It’s not known how this new genetic vaccine will play out over time. The questions need answered.

President Trump’s Recent Position Statement on Vaccines

On August 10, 2026, President Trump signed a controversial executive order regarding the US vaccination program called the Gold Standard Vaccine Recommendations for Americans. Key statements:

—The United States currently recommends more childhood vaccines than any peer nation, including more than twice as many vaccine doses as some European nations. 

—Most peer nations maintain high childhood vaccination rates through public trust and education. In the United States, by contrast, individual States set mandatory vaccination requirements that children must meet to attend school.

—Core childhood vaccine recommendations should be aligned with scientific evidence and best practices from peer, developed countries while preserving access to vaccines currently available to Americans.

—Support maximal parental choice over childhood vaccines, consistent with the Federal Government’s constitutional and statutory obligations and the fundamental principles of personal autonomy and informed consent.

—Immunizations recommended for all children: measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, haemophilus influenzae type B, pneumococcal disease, human papillomavirus, and varicella.

—The Gold Standard Childhood Vaccine Recommendations also recognize that the combined measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine should be administered in three separate single-disease shots once such products are domestically available and that, to the maximum extent feasible, all childhood immunizations should be administered at separate medical visits.

The Controversy

Basically, those who oppose this executive order cite that studies support that childhood vaccines are safe, and this order isn’t needed.

While those who support Trump’s executive order argue that better long-term studies are needed to answer the following questions. Is the potentially toxic irritant such as (Mercury in Thimerosal, Aluminum, Acetone, Formaldehyde, DNA, etc.) used to attract the white blood cells to the vaccination the cause of autism? Are the vaccines being given too close together or too many at one time? Does the age of the child matter? These questions remain unanswered.

Complicating the issue is the heavy pharmaceutical financial support given to a variety of politicians and healthcare organization groups that resist any investigations into further research to answer these difficult questions. 

On A Personal Note

I’ve been following this debate for many years now. We vaccinated our children following the guidelines as recommended in the early 1980’s. While not one developed autism…food allergies and other autoimmune problems surfaced.

I had serious questions and reservations regarding the COVID-19 vaccines. They were rushed into use too quickly and didn’t undergo the longer-term rigorous safety testing medications generally require. What shocked me the most was that any question regarding the efficacy and safety of this new type of vaccine was ridiculed and silenced. Respected scientists who raised thoughtful legitimate concerns were treated as lunatics.

Further, patient autonomy was completely thrown out the window! A doctor may give a patient advice to take a certain treatment or medication, but the patient has the right or autonomy to say yes or no. Americans were told to be quiet and obey our governmental mandates to protect fellow citizens from a COVID infection. However, shockingly Janine Small CEO of Pfizer Pharmaceutical admitted that they never tested their vaccine to examine if it even prevented the spread of the disease.

Tragically many vaccines including these new genetically engineered ones use abortive fetal tissue and cell lines in the research and manufacturing process. It was also a moral issue for me and many other Christians. Thousands of first line responders and soldiers were fired for their personal moral objectives.

However, questions remain. Hopefully both sides will be open to looking for those answers wherever they may land. What is most important is to have an open mind and question the efficacy of the recommendations that patients are being offered by their government and healthcare providers. I know I certainly am now.

Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold (Proverbs: 3: 13-14).Amen.

Living for a Healthy Heart, LLC

Jennie E. Johnson RN, PhD

September 1, 2026

Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold (Proverbs: 3: 13-14).

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References:

“Webster’s Dictionary, Vaccines,” Merriam-Webster, Incorporated (2026). https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vaccine.

“A Long and Short History of Vaccines: Significant Events in the Development of Our Best Defense Against Infectious Disease,” Emory Health Digest, (Winter 2026). https://news.emory.edu/features/2026/01/long-and-short-history-vaccines.

“Autism Over Time: Tracking Prevalence, Rates and Trends Through the Decades,” NeuroLaunch, (August 16, 2026). https://neurolaunch.com/autism-over-time/.

Barbara Fisher, “1986 The National Vaccine Injury Act: Myth vs Facts,” National Vaccine Information Center (January 4, 2024). https://www.nvic.org/newsletter/jan-2024/1986-myths-vs-facts

1. Trump, “Delivering Gold Standard Childhood Vaccine Recommendations for Americans,” The White House (August 10, 2026). https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/delivering-gold-standard-childhood-vaccine-recommendations-for-americans/.

“Autism and Vaccines,” CDC Vaccine Safety (July 22, 2026). https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/about/autism.html

“Excipients in Vaccines Not Routinely Recommended,” John Hopkins Institute for Vaccine Safety (March 14, 2025). https://www.vaccinesafety.edu/excipients-in-vaccines-not-routine/

Goldin & A. Fischer, “Posts Mislead on Pfizer’s COVID Vaccine’s Impact on Transmission,” Associated Press (October 13, 2022). https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-pfizer-transmission-european-parliament-950413863226.

Demasi, “What the ‘Godfather of Vaccines’ Said Under Oath— And Why It Matters Even More Today,” The Defender Children’s Defense Fund News and Views (November 13, 2925). https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender/godfather-of-vaccines-said-under-oath-why-it-matters-even-more-today/

Recently Americans learned of the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham from an aortic dissection. Few really understand what happened and more importantly how to prevent one.

Definition:

The aorta is the large artery that the heart pumps against while pushing rich oxygenated blood out to the rest of the body. It needs to remain healthy and strong. However, years of uncontrolled high blood pressure, glucose and LDL cholesterol in the aorta can cause damage to the lining. Those areas become weaker and may begin to balloon or bulge out. A rupture or dissection occurs when the damaged areas bleed and people die unless repaired immediately.

Risk Factors for Aortic Dissection:

• Elevated blood pressure, glucose and LDL cholesterol
• Congenital abnormalities
• Genetic disease
• Age and gender (more common in men 60-70 years old)
• Intense weightlifting (raises blood pressure very high)

If you have any risk factors that could damage your aorta, it’s a good idea to ask your healthcare provider if you’re at risk as well.

Prevention:

• Control blood pressure, glucose and LDL cholesterol
• Don’t smoke
• Eat a healthy diet
• Be active
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Get enough sleep
• Wear a seat belt (avoids a chest injury from hitting the steering wheel)

Symptoms:

• Sudden severe chest or upper back pain that spreads to the neck or back. The pain may feel like something is tearing or ripping.
• Sudden severe stomach pain.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Shortness of breath.
• Symptoms like those of a stroke, including sudden vision problems, trouble speaking, and weakness or loss of movement on one side of the body.
• Leg pain and trouble walking.

On A Personal Note:

I’ve worked in many settings caring for heart patients: CCU, ICU, Telemetry, lifestyle counseling, etc. In 2000 I was working on a cardiac telemetry floor on a 12-hour shift. It had been a long day with many emergencies, and I was still at work, exhausted, getting my charting done. I was almost finished when a young woman approached me concerned about her father who was visiting his brother recovering from a heart bypass operation. The other nurses were busy putting out similar emergencies as well.

I immediately went to the room and could tell something was wrong. He was complaining of sharp back pain. My first question was Sir, do you have any significant medical history? His reply, Well, I’ve got this aneurysm that my doctor is keeping an eye on. An aneurysm is a bulge that is a precursor for a rupture or an aortic dissection such as killed Senator Graham.

Immediately I asked a nursing assistant to grab a wheelchair, and we walked rapidly down to the ER trying to keep him calm so the problem wouldn’t get worse.

Upon arriving in the ER, I expressed who I was and that he had a history of an aortic aneurysm, experiencing back pain and needed to be seen immediately. I was directed to take him to reception to sign in etc. No, I need you to go back and tell a doctor what I just said. She did. Suddenly he was wheeled back into ER, and I went back up to my floor to complete my charting.

Days later I found out he was air evacuated to a larger hospital for emergency surgery and survived the event. No one knew who the nurse was until I said Oh, I’m glad to hear and thankful that he survived it.

Adding to the drama was this occurred on July 4^th with literally thousands of people gathered on the hospital grounds to observe fireworks over a large pond. My family were there and described the helicopter lift off in the middle of the crowd.

I love that story because it illustrates beautifully why I became a nurse. It’s a very powerful thing when our Lord uses us to do His healing

A Nurse’s Prayer

Give to my heart, Oh Lord…compassion and understanding.

Give to my hand’s skill and tenderness. Give to my ears the ability to listen.

Give to my lips words to comfort. Give to me, Lord…strength for this selfless service.

And enable me to give hope to those who I am called to serve.

Amen.

Living for a Healthy Heart, LLC

Jennie E. Johnson RN, PhD

August 1, 2026

This sume humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References:

“Aortic Dissection,” Mayo Clinic (September 29, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/aortic-dissection/symptoms-causes/syc-20369496

Living for a Healthy Heart, LLC

Jennie E. Johnson RN, PhD

This summer marks the 250^th birthday celebration of the United States of America. It’s a time to reflect on the patriots who made it happen. Recently, I found out that I have 4 patriots who supported the revolutionary war and wanted to share one of those stories with my readers.

Johannes Eblinger and his wife Maria were young newlyweds when they sailed from Germany on the boat Dragon in 1749. Like many new immigrants his name was Americanized to John Eblin upon arrival. At that time many German immigrants settled in Berks County near Reading, Pennsylvania, about 60 miles from Philadelphia and 30 miles from Valley Forge. They became part of the Pennsylvania Dutch community, had 16 children and were farmers.

As tensions mounted with England, John and his son Ludwig joined one of the militias formed in Pennsylvania. Eblin was an outspoken critic of anyone serving in the Revolutionary War who had expressed any sympathy toward England, no matter how long ago. He didn’t think they should be allowed to serve. Later he apologized for those comments.

Privates John and Ludwig Eblin served in the 3^rd Battalion under the command of Captain Daniel Deturk. This battalion was known to fight at battles in Long Island, Trenton, Princeton and Brandywine.

German immigrants who were successful farmers rotated their service between the army and raising crops to feed George Washington’s army. They also provided financial support.

On A Personal Note

My grandmother shared stories of our Pennsylvania Dutch family who were active in the Revolutionary War, Civil War and many others. Each generation sent someone to serve. Without the service and support of farmers such as John and Ludwig Eblin the revolutionary war would not have been won.

John Eblin was 51 years old on July 4^th of 1776. Imagine what it must have been like to serve as an older man in George Washington’s army. Yet, he and many others did…

For 250 years the constitution and our service men and women like John and Ludwig have kept the American dream going. At the Constitutional Convention in 1787, Elizabeth Willing Powel asked Benjamin Franklin “Well, doctor are we a republic or a monarchy?” He replied, “A republic if we can keep it.”

The original patriots who wrote the constitution and founded our nation believed that honorable Christian people would be the best to serve in government leadership positions to avoid corruption and greed that could permeate the system.

Finally, I began this journey a year ago after being invited to consider joining the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism across the United States…and dedicated to honoring the United States constitution and honoring veterans who served preparing to offer their lives if needed by the country.

If you think you descended from an American patriot and you’re a woman, you can contact your local DAR chapter via https://www.dar.org/.

Sometimes the issues of today seem daunting! We can’t seem to agree on anything. Few of us truly take the time to know the issues and vote. However, if Americans don’t get involved in politics and the foundation of the laws of this land, this American dream may parish.

It may be a small thing but on July 4^th my daughter and I will put on colonial dresses and march in our local 4^th of July parade with our DAR group to honor those who gave so much for our country. My grandchildren will be wearing red, white and blue proudly waving our flags and rejoicing in being Americans.

May God bless you and may God bless America. Happy 250^th Birthday America!

If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References:

“Celebrating America’s 250^th Anniversary,” Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), https://www.dar.org/

“L. Smith Payne, “Benjamin Franklin on Keeping a Republic,” National Affairs, #68 (Summer 2026). https://www.nationalaffairs.com/publications/detail/benjamin-franklin-keeping-republic

Living for a Healthy Heart, LLC

Jennie E. Johnson RN, PhD

 The purpose of this blog is to inform the reader of health-related news that is under reported in the mainstream media. Once again, a scary outbreak of Ebola has occurred. Should Americans be concerned? It’s well to remember that there have been 17 outbreaks since 1976. This blog will describe what is known and recent information provided by the CDC.

 As of May 16, 2026, the CDC recorded a total of 246 cases with 86 deaths in an area of Africa, but it’s estimated that the number is >500 currently. Mortality rates vary from 25% to 50% due to the hemorrhagic component of the disease. The virus attacks the vessels causing them to burst or bleed.

 The current outbreak is in a dangerous area bordering Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s an impoverished region with little healthcare support. Complicating the issue is that the funeral culture requires a great deal of touching the deceased body of a loved one which spreads the disease.

 Ebola (Viral Hemorrhagic Fever)

 It’s a group of different viruses known as orthoebolaviruses (formerly ebolavirus). It effects humans and nonhumans such as monkeys, chimpanzees and gorillas. It originated from wild animals within the bush country of Africa. Contact with the diseased animal via touching or eating the meat spread it to humans.

 Symptoms

 Dry symptoms include fever, aches, pains, and fatigue. While wet symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and unexplained hemorrhagic bleeding. The incubation of the disease may run between 2 and 21 days.

 Transmission

 It’s spread through direct contact of a sick person with their broken skin, mucous membranes, body fluids of blood, urine, feces, saliva, semen, or any other secretion. It is not spread via airborne! An individual must physically come in contact with the person or animal that has Ebola. It can also be spread when an individual touches someone who has died. Ebola can also be transmitted to humans when coming in contact with infected needles or some other surface that has infected body fluids on it.

 Treatment

 There are currently no approved treatments for this strain of Ebola. Therapies that reduce viral loads help, but supportive care is the primary goal while the body heals and eliminates the virus. Individuals with weaker immunity experience extremely high viral loads and are more vulnerable to death. Supportive care, nutritional support, IVs for fluid replacement and oxygen are essential. Antibiotics are used to treat the secondary infections.

 Recommendations for the Public

 Use caution when traveling to those areas where an outbreak is occurring.  The CDC has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for people traveling to Uganda and a Level 3 for the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

 What To Do If Traveling in an Outbreak Area

 —Avoid contact with sick people who have symptoms of fever, muscle pain and rash.

 —Avoid contact with blood and other body fluids.

 —Avoid materials contaminated with blood or other body fluids of people who are sick.

—Avoid semen from men recovered from Ebola until testing is negative.

—Avoid hospitals in outbreak areas unless you are ill or need care.

—Avoid traditional healers.

—Do not touch dead bodies of Ebola victims.

—Keep away from bats, antelopes and primates and avoid raw meat of unknown animals.

—Avoid caves where bats live.

—Upon return to the US from Ebola areas monitor your health for 21 days and immediately isolate yourself if you develop symptoms.

—Alert healthcare providers before entering any facility if you’ve been in an Ebola infected area.

Remember this is only spread by direct contact with the Ebola patient. It is NOT airborne! The likelihood of spread to the US population is considered very low.

On A Personal Note

 Like most of you when I heard of another Ebola outbreak it brought back scary memories of the COVID-19 outbreak we recently endured. However, I’m comforted that one must come in direct physical contact with an infected person to get it. Few of us will ever travel to the Congo or Uganda or eat wild monkey meat.

Thankfully its very unlikely it will spread to us in the Western nations. Its currently isolated in a region of Africa. The CDC is sending teams to major US airports to screen individuals coming from Ebola impacted countries. Travel bans are also being considered. It’s a fluid situation.

For now, it’s important that we pray for Africans who live in a dangerous region with sparse medical care. Let’s pray for treatments to be quickly developed to end the suffering of these poor people. We can be on our knees for their recovery and the safety of the healthcare providers treating them.

If you’d like a quick summary of the current Ebola outbreak and an update on the Hantavirus, I highly recommend following Dr. John Campbell and view his recent Ebola Outbreak podcast. May God end this horrific disease and heal Africans suffering from it.

For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal declares the Lord (Jeremiah 30: 17).

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References:

“Ebola Disease Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda,” CDC Health Alert Network (May 19, 2026).https://www.cdc.gov/han/php/notices/han00530.htm

Campbell, “Ebola Outbreak,” Dr. John Campbell (May 20, 2026). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOCfvdGiYMs

“Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease in Uganda,” CDC Travelers Health (May 15, 2026).https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/level1/ebola-uganda

“Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo” CDC Travelers Health (May 22, 2026).https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/level3/ebola-democratic-republic-of-the-congo

Campbell, Ebola, More Bad News,” Dr. John Campbell (May 26, 2026). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdI5lkFeyz8

New Food Pyramid: What’s Changed?

May 1, 2026

Living for a Healthy Heart, LLC

The national Food Pyramid was recently changed, and many Americans wonder what’s new?

The Problem

Currently, 72% of Americans are either overweight or obese. Of 12- to 17-year-olds one in three are prediabetic. Any examination of the population just 30 years ago shows a startling difference in American waistlines. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease are the consequence. Alarmingly nearly 90% of all healthcare dollars are spent treating various chronic disease maladies. The revised New Food Pyramid is an attempt to solve these problems.

The Causes

In the 1970’s there was a concerted effort to replace regular cane sugar with highly processed high fructose corn syrup. It’s a much cheaper method to sweeten food but contains a multiple of chemicals that may increase the risk for obesity and other maladies.

Additionally, the controversial and highly toxic glyphosate (Round Up) weed killer was found in 80% of Americans’ urine. It kills weeds but may also be causing health problems. Interestingly, foreign countries who produce and sell Round Up to America ban it in their own country due to its toxicity while it’s allowed to be used on American farms.

The US government is working with key players of the American food industry to develop drone and lazer technologies to target weeds enabling the reduction of widespread hazardous chemicals. Glyphosate can’t be removed immediately, or weeds would choke out the food supply. Progress is being made and the outlook is promising.

Finally, today the average restaurant entree is 4 times larger than it was in the 1950’s and is enough food to feed 4 people. Owners found that much larger portions could be made at a small increase in cost, enabling a much higher price and profit. Portions and waistlines ballooned! Americans have lost all sense of what a normal portion should be.

The New Food Pyramid

The New Food Pyramid is an attempt to help Americans eat and live healthier lives. The focus should be on nutrient-dense foods: protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and whole grains. Americans should eat less processed foods (probably anything that comes prepackaged in a box, can or jar). Reduce sugar, salt and foods with chemical additives. The following guidelines are appropriate for most people but do check with your healthcare provider for your special dietary needs (especially diabetics and people with kidney damage).

Lean Protein

One of the biggest mistakes people make is not eating enough lean protein. The New Pyramid recommends 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein for each kilogram of weight each day based on caloric needs (1 kilogram = 2.2 pounds). A simple way to think about it is to add some protein to each meal.

Dairy

Individuals should get 3 servings of dairy each day. It helps promote bone growth and many other needs within the body for calcium and protein. Parents should check with their pediatrician regarding appropriate levels for growing children.

Vegetables and Fruits

There are a myriad of natural nutrients within vegetables and fruits that heal the body. The increased fiber promotes a healthy gut and intestinal system. Individuals should eat 3 servings of vegetables a day and 2 servings of fruits for optimal health.

Healthy Fats

Extra Virgin Olive oil is an excellent healthy fat. It can be used in cooking and the lighter versions for baking. Saturated fats (butter and animal fat) are solid at room temperature and should not exceed 10% a day.

Whole Grains

Breads and carbohydrates contain a great deal of sugar and were significantly reduced within the New Pyramid. Whole grains are the best since they are less processed and contain more fiber. The amount eaten should not exceed 2 to 4 servings a day.

Limit Processed Foods, Sugar, Salt and Alcohol

It’s overwhelming to limit harmful food because it tastes wonderful. Individuals were created to love sugar, salt and fat but in excess it’s extremely harmful. A good strategy is to fill your day with as much healthy food as possible. If you’re having a craving, try a smaller amount. Sugar intake should not exceed 10 Grams in one day.

Salt (sodium) is very hard on the body as it increases blood pressure which strains the heart. In general adults should not exceed 2,300 mg in a day. However, people with high blood pressure or heart conditions may be asked to lower intake further.

Alcohol is toxic. Again, Jesus first miracle was turning water into wine (When the master tasted the water now become wine…you have kept the good wine until now. This, the first of his signs…John 2:1-11). In regard to alcohol…it’s good to remember that less is best.

On A Personal Note

Everyone can see that Americans have become heavier and sicker. What isn’t known is why? Are there chemicals in plastics, fertilizers or food that are slowly poisoning us? Has technology so changed our lives that we rarely move anymore? New drugs have come on the scene to promote significant weight loss but are they safe over time? What happens if one stops taking them?

Interestingly, a 3-year-old with chronic diarrhea and skin rashes that I know traveled with his family to Italy. While there he ate all the things he couldn’t eat in America: dairy, gluten, etc. His diarrhea resolved and the rash went away. Italy bans many of the chemicals that remain in our food supply. Once he returned home and began eating American food the diarrhea and rash returned.

I was outraged when I heard this story. We Americans need to speak up and demand better quality controls on our food supply no matter our political affiliation. It’s frustrating that we’ve allowed this problem to continue.

Just work on simple strategies to build a healthier appetite for the foods that are good for you. Begin reading labels selecting foods with fewer chemicals in them. Avoid processed foods and make your own. I’ve started buying more organic foods that contain fewer chemicals. Making foods from scratch takes a bit more time but has less chemicals and tastes so much better!

Finally, food is a gift from God. It’s meant to be enjoyed. God bless you on your journey toward better health.

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31)

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References:

“Obesity and Overweight” CDC: National Center for Health Statistics (March 6, 2026). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/obesity-overweight.htm

“Hotspot Analysis of Diagnosed Diabetes Prevalence, Prevalence in US Adolescence” CDC.https://gis.cdc.gov/grasp/diabetes/diabetesatlas-spotlight.html

R. Kennedy & B. Rollins, “Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030,” USDA (January 2026). https://cdn.realfood.gov/DGA.pdf

J. White, “Straight Talk about High Fructose Corn Syrup: What It Is & What It Isn’t” (December 2008), American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)23394-8/fulltext

A. Young, #Over 80% of Americans’ Urine Tested Positive for Glyphosate,” Garnish(July 8, 2024). https://garrnish.com/blogs/news/over-80-of-americans-urine-tested-positive-for-glyphosate

C. Marxer, “Emerging Drone Technologies for Noxious Weeds Management,” Montana Weed Control Association (April 15, 2026). https://www.mtweed.org/2026/04/15/emerging-drone-technology-for-noxious-weeds-management/

M. Binder, “The Shocking Reality of Restaurant Portions,” Newsbreak (December 13, 2025). https://www.newsbreak.com/24-7-food-recipes-318752653/4395608192255-how-portion-sizes-have-drastically-changed-from-1950-to-today

This week marks the beginning of what Christians call Holy Week, a time to reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus. Nothing is more mysterious than the images and the face on the Shroud of Turin. This blog will update the reader on what is known and unknown regarding this mysterious burial cloth.

 The Image on the Shroud

 Jesus suffered a tortuous scourging and death after being nailed to a wooden cross. He died in the afternoon and was laid within a tomb quickly before sundown which marked the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath. The opening of the tomb was sealed, and Roman soldiers were placed outside to guard it.

Then he (Joseph of Arimathea) took it (crucified body of Jesus) down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid. It was the day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed and saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then they returned and prepared spices and ointments. On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment.  (Luke 23:53-56).

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” He is not here but has risen(Luke 24: 1-6).

Forensic scientists have been astounded at the detailed images of a crucified and scourged man with long hair and horrific wounds that correlate accurately with the Bible’s detail of the crucifixion of Jesus.

The Shroud is a linen cloth 14 feet long by 3 feet wide that clearly shows the blood stains from the horrific scourging that he suffered. The man’s wrists and feet show holes where nails were inserted into them. Blood stains from sharp jagged thorns surround his head (Crown of Thorns). A pierced wound appears on his right side with bruising on his shoulders from carrying a heavy object (the wooden cross).

The crucified man was dead, and in rigor mortis when removed. His head was bent over as one would expect from struggling to breathe while hanging on the cross. He was laid on the cloth which was then folded to cover him. Images were captured on both his front and back side.

The Shroud of Turin has been postulated to be the very linen burial cloth of the resurrected Jesus Christ. Despite thousands of hours studying it, with advanced modern technology, no one has been able to ascertain “How did those images get on that linen?” To date there has never been anything like these images from any burial cloths anywhere in the world.

History of the Shroud of Turin

It certainly makes sense that early Christians would have preserved and protected the burial cloth of Jesus from invaders and others at war in the Holy Lands. It’s believed that one of the disciples took the Shroud to a king in Edessa, Turkey who believed it could heal him in 57 AD. He became a Christian and it was called the Image of Edessa.

Shortly thereafter the Shroud was hidden behind a stone wall. It remained there until 525 AD when a flood damaged the wall. During the repairs the Shroud was discovered. Interestingly, it was at this time that the paintings of Jesus changed to look like the image of the man on the Shroud.

By 944 AD the Shroud was moved to Constantinople. However, the French crusader Knight Geoffroi de Charney is credited with bringing it back from the Middle East to Lirey, France in 1354.

In 1389 it was purchased by a wealthy French family from the granddaughter of Charney. It was passed down through the years. In 1578 it was willed to the Pope with the stipulation that it remain in Turin’s Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Scientific  Investigations 

To the naked eye it’s difficult to see the image. The secrets of the Shroud were hidden for nearly 2,000 years until technology revealed the image more clearly.

1898: Secondo Pia was hired to take the first photograph of the Shroud. During development, he was stunned that the photograph’s negative revealed a lifelike three-dimensional image of a man’s face and body.

1902: The first medical forensic exam of the images on the Shroud occurred. They found the man was crucified in the same way as Jesus and believed it to be his burial linen cloth.

1978: A team of scientists (Shroud of Turin Research Project STURP) investigated the cloth using X-rays, infrared analysis, microscopy and chemical tests. They found that the image was not from paint, dye, or any known artistic methods. There were no brush strokes normally seen with forgeries nor a saturation of the fabric. They concluded: It was formed by a superficial discoloration of the outermost linen fibers, so shallow that it penetrated less than a human hair’s width into the cloth…not the product of an artist…a mystery.

1988: Small fragments of fabric were cut from the end of the cloth and tested by three independent laboratories using radiocarbon dating. Those pieces dated between 1260 and 1390 AD (Medieval Times). Controversy arose immediately due to the location of the cloth removed. In 1532 a fire damaged the Shroud but miraculously didn’t destroy it. The damaged areas were repaired by nuns with material from that period. Researchers questioned the validity of the dating since those sections were at the ends of the cloth repair and contaminated by handling, smoke and other items.

2002: A mosaic dating to 500 AD was found and believed to be the Image of Edessa. The face on the mosaic was very similar to the face on the Shroud.

2022: Wide Angle X-ray Scattering technology was used to date the Shroud to the 1^st century between 55 AD and 74 AD anchoring it closer to the time of Jesus.

Recent DNA Analysis

In 2015 dust samples were taken from various locations on the Shroud for DNA analysis. By 2022 scientists were allowed to repeat DNA analysis with updated technology on the dust previously studied. Skeptics hypothesized that handling through the years would make analysis difficult.

However, they were shocked to find the same information wherever they looked. Barrie Schwortz, a Jewish skeptic was part of the 1978 investigative team who developed the website shroudofturin.com. He summarized recent DNA findings: The genetic profile was unlike any known population…It does not fit our understanding of human population genetics.

Finally, it may have been a blinding, blast of radioactive light during the resurrection that generated the unusual unique image on the cloth. While much has been learned, much remains unknown. It’s as much a mystery as God’s other creations.

On A Personal Note

As a Lutheran Christian, I’m awed at this linen cloth because it reminds me so much of the sacrifice Jesus made for all of us. The silent face draws me in for deeper reflection. As a PhD nursing scientist, I’m humbled that despite the best technology of today, many questions remain unanswered. In the end, I believe.

The season of Lent and the celebration of Easter remain the foundation of Christianity. It’s a time to thank and praise Jesus. If you’d like to learn more about Jesus and Christianity, you may find the following resources helpful.

The Chosen Series -a beautiful drama of what life was like when Jesus walked with His followers.

Expedition Bible– Christian archeologist Joel Kramer travels to the Middle East to highlight locations where events from the Bible probably occurred.

Wesley Huff– a Christian expert in the history of ancient biblical manuscripts (wesleyhuff.com).

The English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible– either audio via an app or hard copy ESV Study Bible. Explanations follow scripture.

May this year draw you closer to a better understanding of Jesus. Don’t be afraid to attend your local Christian church and learn about Him. Thursday is Maundy Thursday where Jesus met in a room to say goodbye to his followers with the breaking of bread and wine in communion.

And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise, the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” (Luke 22: 19-20).

Good Friday was when the earth darkened, an earthquake erupted, and Jesus died on the Cross. Now from the sixth hour, there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour…And the earth shook, and the rocks were split…When the Centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (Matthew 27: 45-54).

However, on Sunday He rose from the dead. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time… (1 Corinthians 15:6). Easter is the day to celebrate this life is but a brief moment in time. He rose and all who believe in Jesus will join Him in Heaven for all eternity.

May God bless you and keep you this Easter. My favorite verse…

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33).

 I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References

“Shroud of Turin Website,” (February 7, 2026) https://shroud.com/

“Visible Wounds and Injuries,” British Society for the Shroud of Turin (2026). https://shroudofturin.uk/research-evidence/forensic-evidence/injuries-depicted  

 “Shroud, Challenges to Authenticity,” Dr. John Campbell Today (November 8, 2025). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY59XfAtQVQ

“The Shroud of Turin: Between Faith, Mystery, and Science,” Science News Today (September 26, 2025). https://www.sciencenewstoday.org/the-shroud-of-turin-between-faith-mystery-and-science

Schwortz, “The New DNA Results Are In-What We Found On the Shroud of Turin Is Impossible,” (February 22, 2026). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jccl52OHNuY