Functional medicine nurse Kelly Desch wearing a light pink sweater, smiling with hands on hips

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE NURSE CONSULTANT

Imagine if you could put together the missing puzzle pieces of your health? 

I help individuals of all ages overcome health challenges so you can feel empowered to live the life you want.

AUTOIMMUNITY

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HORMONAL IMBALANCE

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GI DYSFUNCTION

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CHRONIC FATIGUE

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WEIGHT GAIN

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AUTOIMMUNITY // HORMONAL IMBALANCE // GI DYSFUNCTION // CHRONIC FATIGUE // WEIGHT GAIN //

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Being healthy shouldn’t feel this hard.

You want to feel better, but you have no idea how to get there. You’ve tried countless “healthy” diets, exercise routines, supplements, and even a few prescriptions, but nothing seems to help long-term. You always find yourself back at the beginning with the same nagging symptoms that are robbing you of life. You’re not even sure what “normal” is anymore. If only you could overcome your frustrating symptoms, you could enjoy life on your own terms.

Let’s make it happen, together. 
functional medicine nurse Kelly Desch in a gray sweater with hand on hip

KELLY DESCHFUNCTIONAL MEDICINE NURSE consultanT

Hi! I’m Kelly, a Board-Certified Functional Medicine Nurse Specialist through the American Association of Natural Wellness Practitioners. I am a proud member of The Institute for Functional Medicine and have completed extensive coursework through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy. Additionally, I hold bachelor’s degrees in Sociology & Criminal Justice.

I specialize in chronic health challenges for individuals of all ages. Using functional medicine and nutritional DNA testing, I develop a personalized plan to optimize your health and well-being. My approach focuses on lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and targeted supplementation so you can put together the missing pieces of your health and achieve true, lasting wellness.

Cup of coffee on a table with a plate of toast garnished with pink cream and berries, and a separate plate of blueberries and blackberries.

I was once exactly where you are.

I’ve always believed in the power of a healthy lifestyle. I ate well, maintained a positive outlook, and prioritized exercise as an important part of my life. But looking back, there were subtle signs that things weren’t quite right. As a child, I struggled with chronic constipation. Often I would go an entire week without going to the bathroom—something that, at the time, no one recognized as a problem.

As I got older, new health challenges emerged, as they often do with the increasing demands and stressors of adulthood. Persistent chronic fatigue, joint pain, hot flashes, and unexplained weight gain became my new norm. After a particularly difficult bout with COVID in 2021, my health took an even sharper decline. I developed parosmia (distorted taste & smell), my fatigue worsened, and despite intense workouts, the weight continued to creep up.

 I knew something had to change.
functional medicine nurse Kelly Desch wearing a navy quilted vest over a pink long-sleeve shirt, smiling outdoors

When I discovered functional medicine and nutritional DNA testing, EVERYTHING shifted.

And the insights I gained transformed my health. My energy returned, my joint pain disappeared, I shed the extra weight, and for the first time in years, I felt like myself again. Inspired by my own transformation, I introduced this approach to my family, who also experienced life-changing results. By uncovering the insights within our unique genetic profiles, we made targeted lifestyle and nutritional adjustments tailored to each of us. I couldn’t believe these simple changes could make such a profound difference for all of us and that the information was there all along, just waiting to be discovered. 


This experience not only transformed my family but also shifted my entire perspective on health. It ignited a passion for personalized, evidence-based solutions that address the root causes of illness. I truly believe that health isn’t one-size-fits-all. By focusing on root causes, we can unlock lasting healing and vitality.

functional medicine nurse consultant kelly desch smiling while holding dumbbells

Today, I help you uncover what works BEST for YOUR unique body, so you can live the vibrant, energized life you deserve.

I became a nurse because I wanted to help people heal and live healthier lives. But over time, I’ve seen chronic disease become increasingly prevalent—despite the widespread use of pharmaceutical drugs meant to “fix” chronic health conditions. Yet, instead of healing, more people than ever are battling long-term health challenges. Deep down, I’ve always believed there was a better way.

This belief became even more personal when one of my children was labeled with ADHD. I was told natural approaches wouldn’t help and that medication was the only solution. I was so frustrated that nobody was addressing the root cause—or even looking for it. Through my own research and a nutritional DNA test, we discovered the real issues— extreme sensitivities to food dyes, glyphosate, and environmental pollutants. With this insight, we were finally able to make targeted changes that dramatically improved his health.

With over 18 years of experience as an intensive care nurse and extensive training in functional medicine and genomics, I bring a uniquely integrative perspective to your health.

My background in both conventional and holistic approaches allows me to uncover insights other providers may have missed. And there’s nothing I love more than finding those missing pieces for my clients!

Are you ready to get started?

WHAT MAKES ME DIFFERENT

  • Yin-yang symbol with a leaf and syringe icon, representing natural and medical balance.

    Integrative Experience & Perspective

    With 18 years as an intensive care nurse and specialized training in functional medicine and genomics, I offer the best of both conventional and holistic models of care. My deep understanding of both conventional and functional medicine enables me to look at your health from every angle. This unique combination allows me to identify connections and uncover solutions that others might overlook, helping you achieve true, lasting wellness.

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    Insights From Nutritional DNA Testing

    This testing reveals how your unique genes influence your nutrition, mood, and health risks—empowering you to make targeted lifestyle changes that improve your health. While many believe their genes are their destiny, I show you how to "clean" any "dirty" genes through strategic adjustments. This personalized approach ensures you’re not just managing symptoms, but truly optimizing your health for the long term.

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    Personal Experience with Chronic Issues

    I’ve walked the path many of my clients are on, facing challenges like chronic fatigue, GI distress, hormonal imbalance, and weight gain. It wasn’t until I found  the right strategies to help my body regain balance that everything changed. My personal health journey has been life-changing, not only for my own well-being but also for the way I approach my work, and now I’m uniquely equipped to guide my clients toward solutions that truly work.

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    Understanding of Human Behavior

    With a Bachelor’s degree in sociology and a passion for connecting with people, I bring a unique perspective to health and wellness. As a true “people person,” I value each individual’s story, offering care that not only heals the body but honors the whole person. I believe that understanding human behavior—how we think, feel, and interact with the world—is just as vital as addressing physical health challenges.

“I empower my clients to feel hopeful about their health and create a bright, functional future for themselves and their families.”

– KELLY DESCH

ON A PERSONAL NOTE

  • A person standing on a viewing platform with a scenic view of a tropical seascape and islands in the background.

    I LOVE to travel, visit new places, and immerse myself in different cultures. I have traveled to five out of the seven continents — Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and throughout North America. 🌎

  • Smiling woman taking a selfie in a mountainous landscape with green hills and a small lake.

    I love staying active—hiking 🏞️, biking, canoeing, kayaking, walking, resistance training & pickleball. I played soccer, too, but retired before I could break any bones!

  • Two people smiling in front of an elephant reaching out with its trunk at a zoo or wildlife park.

    I treasure my time with my family and love to read, cook, bake, attend theater shows, and play MahJong. I also enjoy singing, playing piano, and watching The Voice. 🎶

  • Four people standing inside a venue with colorful decorations, smiling at the camera. A colorful kite is propped up nearby. The venue has tiered seating and banners on the walls.

    I enjoy volunteering my time with non-profit organizations 💗 to help those who are underserved. I’m a practicing Catholic and faith is an important part of my life.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward LASTING Health?

Health shouldn’t feel SO hard. At Function First, we empower you with the tools and strategies to know exactly what to do to improve your health. Learn more by booking a free consultation below.