Lupe Miller’s Journey to Better Health with Dr. Rhea Manuel

“She Saved My Life”

For years, Lupe Miller — a devoted mother, former practice administrator, and now a passionate educator — put everyone else’s needs ahead of her own. But in early 2023, her health hit a breaking point. She was constantly ill, battling vertigo, Bell’s palsy, leg cramps, and insomnia. “I was exhausted and scared,” Lupe recalls. “That’s when I found Dr. Manuel.”

From the first visit, Dr. Rhea Manuel took Lupe’s concerns seriously. “She made me feel seen and heard,” Lupe said. “She told me, ‘If I don’t have the answer, I’ll keep looking until I find it.’ That kind of care was life changing.”

Dr. Manuel diagnosed Lupe with type 2 diabetes and immediately created a coordinated care plan. She started Lupe on medication, referred her to weight management specialist Dr. Kevin Westbrook, and emphasized one critical principle: preventative care.

“I had gone years without seeing a doctor regularly,” Lupe said. “Not because I didn’t care — but because I didn’t feel sick enough or couldn’t get in. Dr. Manuel helped me realize that being proactive is everything.”

With regular checkups, support, and accountability, Lupe committed to her health. She adopted a new diet, began exercising, and stayed consistent. Within six months, she lost 80 pounds, reversed her diabetes, and regained her energy. Today, she bikes at the beach with her husband, swims daily, and strength trains regularly.

“She didn’t just treat my illness — she helped me change the direction of my life,” Lupe said. After losing a beloved student in 2023, Lupe hit an emotional low. “I realized I wasn’t valuing my own life either. That’s when I chose to fight for myself. And Dr. Manuel was right there with me.”

Now, Lupe sees Dr. Manuel every few months and credits their relationship for keeping her accountable. “When you trust your doctor, you follow through. She listens, explains things clearly, and genuinely cares.”

Lupe’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact primary care can have — not just in treatment, but in prevention and long-term wellness. “Routine screenings saved me more than once,” she said. “I caught breast cancer early in 2018. And last year, if I hadn’t seen Dr. Manuel when I did, I might not be here.”

For Lupe, being part of a connected health system like Adventist Health — where primary care, specialists, and hospital services all work together — has also made her journey smoother.

“Everything is coordinated,” she said. “It’s not scattered like it was during my cancer care. Having Dr. Manuel as my primary, and knowing she’s backed by a system that supports every part of my health — that’s why I choose to stay with Adventist Health.”

And her advice for anyone putting off their health?

“Don’t wait. Go see Dr. Manuel,” Lupe said. “She’s in this to help people. I’m living proof that putting your health first can change everything.”