About Me

My name is Frances Marie.  I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. Growing up on the west coast was a blessing, surrounded by incredible beaches, family, and friends. However, as a child, I struggled with a lot of illnesses. It was not until adulthood that I could get an answer to my all physical and mental symptoms.  I have been diagnosed with celiac disease since 2010 and have probably lived with it for many years prior since I was a child, undetected due to misdiagnosis. After I was identified as a “celiac,” I made sure that my family, especially my young nieces, would not have to endure the same difficulties. When my nieces Olivia and Larisa were also found to have celiac disease, I worried about how they would potentially feel “different” from their friends. Unable to eat the same cupcakes or pizzas that their friends were eating and be extra vigilant when purchasing foods at supermarkets.  These feelings that, even as an adult, I experienced motivated me to write the book series Livie Bloom and Friends, Adventures in Food Allergies.  My greatest desire is to spread awareness of the condition in hopes that dietary choices for celiacs be more widespread and available. That celiac disease and food allergies be taken seriously by the public as conditions that can have significant consequences, and to make children who suffer from food allergies understand that their condition is something they should not feel embarrassed about, leading to acceptance and a better understanding of those who have different needs. My greatest hope is to encourage wellness and well-being. Please help me raise awareness. Love you all.