Welcome to Forti-fy! However it is that you found your way here, we are delighted you made it!
We invite you to “come on in” and check out what we’re all about. Like the construction of a new house takes time, so “Forti–fy“ is in the continual stages of construction. So far, we have have some basic tools for use, the foundation laid, and the frame up.
The conception for this website – moms fortifying moms – actually occurred years ago when I wanted to launch this site on the celebration of our daughter being seizure-free. (You can read that story here)
My oldest son, Kyle, had encouraged me to take all the knowledge and information I had gained, and learned from so many others, and start a site. Kyle, tragically died in a helicopter crash in Kenya on March 3, 2019. He and his wife, Hope had just found out she was pregnant with their second child, right before he left on his trip.
Kyle. Hope, and Max October 2018
A talented artist friend of my daughter put this togther after Max had made the comment to me that Mercy might be sad that there were no pictures of her and her dad.
As the video shows, although he was not physically present when she was born, he was very present and excited announcing her arrival!
We were only able to find healing for our daughter, and help during the loss of our son, because people came along and fortified us to get the help we needed.
The goal of Forti-fy is to offer that same kind of help on a variety of topics to the Fort Wayne and surrounding area communities.
Now, every house in a neighborhood greatly benefits from resourceful neighbors. That’s where you come in. The team here at Forti-fy would love to have your help in adding your resources to make Forti-fy a well-stocked, and well- crafted home that everyone in the neighborhood can come on over, chat a bit, find refreshment, and get Forti–fy’d! So please join us as we travel down the streets, hills and valleys of our community, walking along life’s way.
Welcome to the neighborhood!
Recent Articles
In this episode, I catch up with Ashley Grogg, MSN-RN, and founder of Hoosiers for Medical Liberty (H4ML), to review the last few months and tips for how you can stay engaged in the quest for medical liberty for you and your family!
The information discussed in this episode affects EVERY American’s constitutional and medical rights.
Today, I interview Bri Dressen and Dr. Joel Wallskog, co-founders of React-19.
If the CDC, FDA and NIH – and media outlets – are capable of this, we are in serious trouble because we have now lost the foundation of trust.
In this episode, Ashley Grogg, MSN-RN, and Founder of “Hoosiers for Medical Liberty” discusses two of her new projects “Mending the Broken Vaccine Safety Net” and “The VAERS Project”.
The resources are designed to create a “Culture of Safety” by providing step-by-step quality educational training on the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System and removing misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding the system.
That is the question you will be asking yourself after you finish watching this video.
I had a wonderful life, I felt like a millionaire. He was my best friend….
“The doctor came out and said, “Your son is dead, you can go home now.””
So begins Ernest Ramirez’s heartbreaking journey of losing his son, Ernesto Junior, 5 days after taking the Pfizer vaccine.
Here are the current interviews in our Series: “Covid Vaccine Injury: Bringing the Unseen into the Light”
“I have always been full of life, love and personality, and always been the person to step up and offer help to others and be the last to leave.” ~ Cat Parker
Until her vaccine injury took that life away from her; however, Cat has not given up fighting to bring awareness of all who are suffering.
“I wouldn’t wish this – what I’ve been through – on any other human being, or animal, or anyone. The pain that I live with, Ann, is frightening at times.”
Those are the words of Adam Rowland who I interviewed along with Michelle Utter. Both enduring great suffering from the vaccines.
Alicia Connors was an extremely active on-the-go flight attendant before her life was turned upside down after her covid vaccination.
Her vaccine injury has left her unemployed, bedridden, and basically bankrupt.
In this interview, Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Joel Wallskog shares what happened after receiving a diagnosis of Transverse Myelitis after his one and only Moderna vaccine in December of 2021.
Dr. Wallskog had a flourishing practice where he was beloved and respected by staff and patients alike. He averaged over 5,000 patient visits and performed 800 surgeries per year.
He is now permanently disabled, and his career has ended.
Danielle was a registered nurse for the past 20 years who absolutely loved her job providing hospice and palliative care.
In June of 2021, Danielle’s life changed dramatically after receiving her covid vaccinations.
Once an extremely active mom keeping her busy family on the go, Danielle is now permanently disabled, has lost the career she loved, and living just above the poverty line, all because she did what she was asked to do.
This interview with Bri Dressen is the first in the Forti-fy Podcast series: “Covid Vaccine Injury: Bringing the Unseen Into the Light.”
The goal is simply for all of you to hear the unconscionable cruelty, silencing and abandonment the injured have faced in their efforts to merely be heard and find help, and then hopefully inspire you to do what you can to help the unseen be seen!
In this episode we review Indiana VAERS reports, mass censorship and the class action lawsuit the vaccine injured have filed against the Australian government.
A Letter to Our Indiana Public Health Departments
Ann and Stephanie Ripple discuss recent events and Stephanie reviews the current National and Indiana VAERS data.
Ann also shares a clip of Bri Dressen discussing current issues with VAERS reporting.
As always, people need to be informed and stay informed.
Ann sits down with Ashley Grogg MSN-BN, founder of Hoosiers For Medical Liberty to get an Indiana legislative update and an update on the VAERS Project.
Today Ann sits down with two of the many organizers of Stop Solar Farms DeKalb, Indiana, Jessica Shull and Andrew Provines.
Many solar companies are pushing to lease or buy THOUSANDS of acres throughout all of Northern Indiana. They have recently made it to county DeKalb County, IN.
In this episode, I sit down and talk with 4 of my 8 kids to ask them what their suggestions would be to parents who are new to homeschooling.
Stephanie Ripple reviews the current Indiana VAERS data, and reviews the vaccine injury story of Indiana resident, Bill, and his quest to find help.
Ashley Grogg, MSN-RN, and founder of Hoosiers for Medical Liberty, then gives us an IN legislative update.
Horror may seem like a strong word; however, after you listen to this episode, I do not know what other word best describes what is taking place.
In today’s episode Ann covers the unconscionable response of the CDC, FDA and NIH’s to the Covid vaccine-injured.
Let Indiana Association of Home Educators (IAHE) help you get started with all your homeschool needs!
In today’s episode, we discuss the most important bills, relating to your medical freedom, in the 2023 Indiana legislative session.
Indeed, we cannot be complacent!
If we are serious about getting out of the mess we are in, helping people – especially the vaccine injured, and having medical freedom, we have to find a way forward.
In this episode, we review the Indiana legislative calendar, the legislative process, and why it’s important for you to be engaged!
Today, Ann and Stephanie Ripple sit down to review current Covid-19 VAERS reports. In addition there is also about a 9-minute re-cap of Senator Ron Johnson’s December 7th roundtable discussion, COVID-19 Vaccines: What they Are, How They Work, and Possible Causes of Injuries.
Ashley Grogg, MSN-RN, and founder of Hoosiers for Medical Liberty, and Ann sit down to talk about the $50.6 million grant Indiana just received from the CDC and how it may impact your health freedom.
Knowing that most people are too busy to listen to an an hour + video, the goal of this podcast was to give a few excerpts from Dr.Aseem Malhotra’s talk given on November 14, 2022 titled:
“Has Big Pharma Hijacked Evidence-Based Medicine?”
Giving Tuesday!
Help those who have been injured and abandoned, and help support your medical freedom!
This needs to be shared.
New Podcast Series: What’s Up Wednesday
New Weekly Podcast!
Attention!
“The Worst Public Health Scandal in Our History.”
Those are the words of Dr. Jan Maisel that open this video.
Dr. Maisel is a Pediatrics Specialist and has over 42 years of experience in the medical field.
A Tragic Travesty
The NIH, FDA and CDC all knew early on that there were serious side effects.
These people matter, and it’s time you start speaking up for them.
What Has Happened to Us?
How have we become blinded to such evil?
Do Not Stay Silent
We must be willing to speak for those who have been “erased.”
Gather to rally for freedom!
Got Covid? Check out these resources.
It’s important to know all the data when making health decisions for yourself and your kids.
Mandates are not the answer.
How Do We Reconcile This?
We need medical freedom.
The Tragedy of the Unbelieved
Sit Down, Listen and Share
These voices represent tens of thousands. The silence of government agencies is unconscionable.
Covid is real and must be taken seriously. Covid vaccine injury is real and must be taken seriously.
Snippets from the Culture Calling out For Freedom
This past week’s news and reviews.
Trust is the greater good.
So states New York Times best~selling author and six-time Pulitzer-nominated journalist, Michael Capuzzo.
I’m not sure how to title this, except to say everyone should probably know this information.
Is the benefit of the Covid vaccine greater than the risk? There are many highly credentialed doctors who say it may not be – especially for the young.
A Story of Comfy Cozy Delight That Will Inspire!
So excited to sit down with my friend and author, Peggy Alberda, to discuss her delightful new children’s book, “Hugo Makes Bread with Grandad!
As a mom of thirteen kids, Heather needs all the brain power she can get! Here, she shares the main points of how the information in this book can impact your health!
Who Will Listen? Where Does it End?
How do we move to a place of trust?
Living After Your Child Dies – Trish’s Story of Samuel
One of the things that was very helpful for me after Kyle’s death was to be able to reach out and talk with other moms who knew what it felt like to be walk down the road that was now in front of me – and help me to look for the light in the dark moments
My friend, Trish Richhart, was one of those moms. She lost her 8 year-old son, Samuel, after a 3 year battle with cancer.
In having 38 kids combined, we share a thing or two we’ve learned throughout the years about building relationships with adult kids – starting first when they are young.
Why There Must Be Choice
There is only one reason I write on vaccines, and that is in regard to overall vaccine policy. It is my hope that each person reading this will always have the right to be allowed to make medical decisions that are in alignment with their conscience and that takes into consideration their own personal health history.
This is a great podcast to share with your kids!
Reviewing the Mounting Covid-19 Vaccine Adverse Reactions, The Dilemma of Mandates, and Building Trust
How do we move to a place of trust?
A Large Sampling of Yum and Fun to Give – and Receive – As You Help the Livelihood of Local Businesses!
Wow! Wow! Wow! We provided quite a list in our recent podcast episode on so many local places – and people – that you will enjoy checking out, for gift ideas for family, friends – or yourself!
Radical Biblical Hospitality
Everyone can do something!
A Journey of Adoption
If you have any interest in adoption, but think your circumstances might prevent you from doing so, listen in as Ashley Kellogg tells her family’s story on adopting 5 special need children, when the odds were stacked against them!
To the Mom of Young Children: Take Off the Pressure of Perfection!
In this podcast, and in this blog post, Kelsey shares about life with 5 kids under the age of 7. We talk about the “mess” inside ourselves and how our kids help us get “cleaned up!” We also discuss the beauty and freedom of creating our own “family culture”, and not being bound to looking like anyone else.
What Small Steps Can You Take to Live in Harmony with Your Habitat?
Honestly, although we throw our trash in the can and haul it to the curb, there is no magical place where trash goes “away”.
Is it possible for you to reduce your waste? Yes! With just a few small changes we can make a big difference in the world we live.
Are You Stuck? How To Start Moving Forward
In this podcast episode Donna and Ann discuss how to move forward, when – for whatever reason – we are in a place of being stuck, that may be in regards to current life circumstances, weight loss, relationships, exercise or in just trying to get things done every day. As usual, Donna brings some great tips to help us move forward!
Down 220 Pounds: Small Steps, Huge Strides!
Listen in to hear Donna and Ray’s journey to losing 220 pounds – and get some great weight-loss tips!
Our Walk With Covid and How It May Help You
In this podcast episode, Rachel and Ann talk about their recent – not so great – experiences with Covid-19, the challenges they faced within the health care system, and thoughts on the future of medical choice freedom.
Are You Aware of Sex Offenders Living in Your Area?
On this episode of the Forti-fy podcast, Heather and Ann sat down with Detective Michael Smothermon who heads up the Sex and Violent Offender Registry in Allen County.
Do The Twist! You Will Love It!
Get to know this neighborhood business that serves up yum and fun!
Area Homeschool Co-ops and Classes
Today, I am starting a series on the homeschool co-ops and classes offered in the Fort Wayne and surrounding areas
How 13 Kids and 8 Miscarriages Led to a Passion for Health, Nutrition and Training for Marathons!
So much helpful information packed in this podcast!
Join us as we gather around Donna’s kitchen table and walk through our years of homeschooling days to answer the question, “What would you tell a new homeschooling mom?”
How Will This Information Change You?
What will your response be after you read this?
Is God Sexist?
At some point in their lives, this is probably a question many women ask.
Trish gives us a good reminder here.
Dandelions: Weed, Flower, Herb or…Coffee Alternative?
A annoying weed or a cheerful bouquet of health?
So engaging!
Salting Your Way to Health?
“What I found was astounding; there is little data to support low-salt diets being effective at treating hypertension for the vast majority of people.”
What Are You Thinking?
Donna shares on how our thoughts can completely revolutionize our actions.
This prayer of Christ’s holds special significance for me. As my own son was barely clinging to life in a hospital ICU, I was also begging God in prayer.
“Having fun with our grandkids is great! But, that’s not the best part of grandparenting. The best part is having the amazing privilege of passing the baton of faith.”
On Birth Days, Life, Death and Thanks
I wish I could have said, “Thank You”, one more time.
Do Your Vitamins Contain Folate or Folic Acid? And Why Does it Matter?
Why it is important to know about folate and what type of folate is in your vitamin.
Trisch’s Tips
Trisch gives some great tips for setting REALISTIC goals for the new year!
I wrote this for Kyle.
I want to remotivate and encourage myself, and you, in the subject of praying for our grandchildren.
“Anyone who runs to sugar for comfort or a reward, who eats mindlessly or out of boredom, who feels physically and spiritually lethargic, or who struggles with self-control will discover here not only freedom from their cravings but an entirely new appetite for the good things God has for us.” Wendy Speake
Addressing the hard questions of Christianity.
The Perfect Gift for Family, Friends and Pets!
Such wonderful natural products!
I can tell you for certain this one does!
Fact or Feeling? Clarity or Confusion?
People aren’t denying truth exists, they simply don’t care.
Trisch’s Transformation
If I had to give a label to the way I eat, I would call it gentle changes or “Small Steps to Success”.
Donna’s Transformation
Whenever I think of Forti-fy team member, Donna Reish, there is one thought that always comes into my mind: “The Energizer Bunny”
Wake to the Wonder
Awaken to the wonder of now – the wonder of the small. Staying awake to this one wild and beautiful life.
Heather’s Transformation
Heather and I have always shared a passion for all things health and wellness.
Reviewing the Vaccine Controversy
The goal is a safe, pro-informed consent vaccine policy, which upholds constitutional freedoms.
From Fort Wayne, New Haven and Auburn, to Waterloo and Angola – there are an abundance of activities to enjoy this weekend!
Fire And Light Productions – Where Kids Thrive and the Stage Shines!
I wish everyone knew that this kind of family entertainment was right here, in their own backyard.
What Am I?
The answer to this question has huge implications.
Mommas – Don’t Let the “HURRY” Hurt, Today.
Momma, Do you see yourself in these words?
Who Gets Wine Headaches? Me!!!
BRAVAS – Have you heard of it?
Heather introduces us to @bravasfood amazing caramel apple burger – with a gluten free bun to boot!
Lots of different activities happening around the area this weekend to forti-fy you and your family!
Hugh’s Bakery and Coffeehouse
You just want to go here!
Supporting Families in Crisis
Have you ever desired to help out families in crisis in your community but didn’t really know how to do that? Or you liked the idea of serving, but thought you might not have the time?
Human Library
At this event you will be able to meet and talk with those whose life’s story may be very different than yours.
Lots of different activities happening around the area this weekend to forti-fy you and your family!
Mountain Biking in Fort Wayne
Indiana’s mountain bike trails are better than most people realize or expect!
FREE Knitting Classes Starting Soon for Adults and Kids!
13 Kids Keeps Me Running
Primarily it keeps me running around all day in the car! However, in order to keep me somewhat out of Looneyville, I try to rise early every morning, slip on my shoes and head out for my daily run.
Photo Books to Bridge the Distance
It’s a small investment of time and money that has helped us bridge the distance!
Keeping It Simple!
Each family thrives differently, you have the joy and the freedom to figure out what makes you and yours do just that…thrive!
Long-Distance Grandparenting
And recently, I read a book about what matters most as grandparents—the salvation and spiritual growth of our grandchildren.
Rethinking Global Aid and Poverty
“You‘ll never look at poverty and the Third World the same again.”
Helping Local Refugees
Volunteering does help those in our community, but I have also found that it impacts those of us who are doing the serving, as well.
Rethinking Sexuality
“I know of no greater failure among Christians than in presenting a persuasive approach to sexuality.”
Killer Bread with a Prison History
I don’t eat much bread, so I am not familiar with many different brands, but I am sharing this here because I thought the conception of this product was so intriguing.
Character Ink Classes
They teach so many subjects! And your students will enjoy learning from two teachers that really enjoy teaching!
Have You Considered Music Therapy?
There are so many areas where music therapy can really make a difference!
Volunteer to Help Fort Wayne Pregnant Moms & Dads
All you need to start helping at A Hope Center right now is …
Fudgy Grain-Free Yum!
They are so incredibly fudgy!
Volunteer to Help The Underserved
By the gospel, Matthew 25 Health And Dental Clinic fills a critical need in our community, providing free medical, dental, and vision services to uninsured, low-income residents of Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio.
Local Volleyball Anyone?
Fort Wayne, perhaps surprisingly, is full of opportunities to be involved in volleyball–at whatever level you play.
Kroeker HomeSchool Academy
“Wow, how do they teach ALL that in one class?!”
What Is Intermittent Fasting and How Does It Help You?
Donna is the Intermittent Fasting guru on our team! She gives you all the basics here.
Cycling Events & Races
Are you a wee bit competitive? Do you enjoy challenging yourself to be fitter and faster?
NEIC Mountain Bike Team
The North East Indiana Composite (NEIC) mountain bike team is a local team for middle and high school students in northeast Indiana who want to get involved in mountain biking.
Clever Chore Charts, and Steadfast Playful Moms
Each week we’d like to take a moment out and share a few snippets of moms in our area – doing what they do best – fortifying their families!
Fort 4 Fitness Spring Cycle
Your Kids Really Need This.
Sometimes it is so important NOT to teach, but rather just to listen and affirm.
Looking for inexpensive college credits…
Considering that the average cost is $300 per 1 college credit hour, if any of your kids are college bound, it may be a good idea for the budget to take advantage of any opportunity to reduce the cost.
Downtown Auburn, Coming Up!
Launching a Community
Welcome to the launch of Forti-fy!
Keto Joy!
Everything we know about the Ketogenic diet for Epilepsy, can be found here!
SCD Basics
Vegan Basics
Vegan basics: There are 3 main groups of vegetarians; those that eat milk and eggs (lacto-ova), those that eat milk, but no eggs (lacto), and those that avoid all animal products (vegan).
Raw Food Basics
Raw Food basics: Eating only uncooked food, primarily fruits, vegetables, sprouted grains, seeds, nuts and nut milks.
Keto Basics
It’s all fat, baby! High fat, low carb and moderate protein.
Donna’s Sugar-Free, Flour-Free Recipes!
Trim Healthy Mama Basics
The THM basics: The fundamental rule of THM is separating carbs from fats in every meal, but always include protein.
The ABC’s of Prioritizing
Donna shares her 2 simple rules.
Is Your Food Making You Sick?
One morning over breakfast, Robyn O’brien’s life changed as she watched her daughter’s face swell shut after eating the average breakfast of Eggo waffles, yogurt and eggs.
Paleo Basics
The basics of the paleo diet is one that consists mainly of meat, fish, vegetables, fruits nuts and seeds.
GAPS Basics
The GAPS diet has been instrumental in helping MANY people find good health – both physical and psychological.
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Gardens
One of my favorite places is the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Gardens.
This is Insanity
Greenmarch Farm
Horse riding opportunities for all ages and skill level!
Vitamix
Restoring Civility
In a world torn apart by religious extremism on the one side and a strident secularism on the other, no question is more urgent than how we live with our deepest differences.