In an inspiring episode of Hotel Talk, Farah Shammas sat down with Clementine Ynna Tsvetanov, a Muscular Dystrophy expert, author, and mother. Born in France, and now residing in Paphos, Clementine’s story is one of resilience, personal growth, and a powerful mission to bring hope to families facing challenges similar to her own.
Clementine’s life took a pivotal turn when her son, Gabrilian, was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy at two years old. It was an emotional blow for any parent—an experience marked by fear, confusion, and uncertainty. Initially, she sought reassurance from doctors, but when her son’s muscle weakness persisted, Clementine faced the grim reality of a progressive, degenerative disease.
Clementine’s early response to the diagnosis was a mixture of denial and devastation. She recalled the difficult months after learning of her son’s condition, where daily life was clouded by tears, self-doubt, and a sense of helplessness. However, amidst the emotional turmoil, Clementine discovered something crucial—her will to fight for her son’s health.
Far from passive in the face of adversity, Clementine embarked on a journey that spanned continents and philosophies, delving into both conventional and alternative therapies. She began researching various treatments for muscular dystrophy, focusing on detoxification, dietary adjustments, and neuro-reflex therapy. With determination, she found alternative specialists in the UK and Cyprus, testing innovative approaches like electro-acupuncture and heavy metal detoxification.
One of the most significant moments in Clementine’s journey was the decision to detoxify her son’s body. She learned that toxins—often found in food, household items, and the environment—could exacerbate his condition. By eliminating harmful substances and introducing organic, toxin-free food, she saw Gabrilian’s strength improve.
The physical improvements were slow but steady. Initially, Gabrilian could only descend stairs by sliding on his bottom, unable to support himself. Over time, however, Clementine saw him confidently stand on stairs and, eventually, take steps. Each small victory fuelled her resolve, teaching her that perseverance, combined with innovative care, could achieve results that seemed impossible.
Yet, the physical challenges were only part of the story. Gabrilian’s muscular dystrophy also affected his cognitive and behavioural development, a common issue in children with the condition. Clementine trained in neuro-reflex rehabilitation, a therapy that focuses on stimulating brain function through facial and body reflexes. After months of applying these techniques, Gabrilian showed remarkable improvements in school, with his attention span and behaviour dramatically improving. His teachers, once unsure how to handle him, began to notice a profound change.
Now 12 years old, Gabrilian walks, runs, and plays football. His transformation defies the early prognosis of the doctors, who once feared he might never walk again. The journey was challenging, but Clementine’s faith in unconventional therapies and her tireless research have led to results that astound the medical community.
Clementine’s personal triumph inspired her to extend her mission beyond her own family. She now works with other families facing similar struggles, offering them the hope and guidance she once desperately sought. As a certified neuro-reflex therapist, she has made it her life’s work to help children with muscular dystrophy and other neurological conditions.
In her book, Me, My Son, and Muscular Dystrophy, Clementine shares her journey in detail. It’s a moving account of a mother’s love, resilience, and unyielding belief in the possibility of a better future. Her mission now extends beyond the written word; she envisions creating retreats in Cyprus where families can receive holistic treatments, learn about detoxification, and begin their own journeys of healing.
Clementine’s story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the extraordinary lengths a mother will go to for her child. Her message is clear: no matter how daunting the diagnosis, there is always hope. Through knowledge, alternative therapies, and unwavering determination, it is possible to overcome even the most challenging of odds.
Her inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope for parents, caregivers, and individuals navigating their own battles with illness. In an age where many turn to conventional medicine as the only solution, Clementine’s story reminds us of the importance of exploring every avenue, never giving up, and believing that even in the darkest times, there is a way forward.
For anyone seeking hope, support, or guidance, Clementine’s book is available on Amazon in both English and French, offering a detailed account of her experience and the practical steps she took to help her son regain his strength. As Clementine continues her mission, she hopes to bring more awareness to the power of alternative treatments and the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
