Gluten Free Lexington (GFL) is the central Kentucky chapter of the national Celiac Disease Foundation. But you don't have to have celiac disease to join us. Gluten intolerance is at least ten times more prevalent than celiac disease, and wheat (one of the top eight food allergens) is completely eliminated on a gluten free diet. So we welcome any and all who can benefit from the resources and fellowship we offer. For an introduction to our group, click here. Or, just join us at our next meeting!

May 29, 2008 Local Awareness Event Smashes Prior Records, Points to Future Potential (See GFL Events page )

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A Fond Adieu & Bon Voyage!

GFL Salutes Fred & Judy Michel

Judy and husband Dr. Fred Michel, as they appeared on the cover of the January premiere of M.D. News.

It is with heavy hearts, but fond memories, that we all wave good-bye to GFL founding co-director Judy Michel, and her husband Dr. Fred Michel. For two years Judy has served tirelessly and creatively alongside Jan Falwell as co-director of Gluten Free Lexington. As Medical Director of Lexington Clinic, her husband Fred paved crucial inroads into the medical community, and arranged for GFL's second 'home' facility at the Clinic's Ambulatory Surgery Center. With Fred's retirement from Lexington Clinic comes this dedicated and giving couple's geographic relocation, leaving behind the legacy that is Gluten Free Lexington - a solidly built and promising chapter of the national Celiac Disease Foundation.

In a recent broadcast email to GFL members and supporters, Judy wrote (in part): "It has been an amazing experience, since Jan and I began this "grass roots" group two years ago! There have been many milestones and memories, but none of our Chapter's success would have happened without the support of each and every one of you - your input, participation, questions, shared learning, encouragement, and financial support through membership. Fred and I will miss being involved in the group but, thanks to the internet, we will follow your progress on the GFL website. Best wishes for a healthy and joyful 2008!"

Judy and Fred,      I don't even know how to start to tell you how much you two have done for this community. Judy, though you and I both ironically had the same idea back in March of '06, the progress that this group has made is definitely due to your dedication and desire to reach the masses - something that I could never have accomplished on my own. Now that we are a growing group, and the initial contacts have been made, the job will not only be possible but much easier since you and Fred "blazed a trail" to lead so many to the help they need. I feel that the core group and board has some mighty large shoes to fill, but together we will make it. And the list will keep growing with the numbers of people being diagnosed now.  Hopefully, you can do the same for the Rhode Island area, as I know there are many people there too who need guidance and counseling in eating safely.      May you both have a happy and enjoyable retirement, and remember to visit if you're ever close to Lexington. You'll always be a most important part of GFL -  we're only an email or phone call away. Sincerely,  Jan Falwell President, Gluten Free Lexington

Many important achievements during Judy's & Fred's time with us are pictured below, and are also summarized in the Past Events section of this web site's GFL Events page. We invite you to review those sections, share in the memories, and join us in bidding Fred & Judy a fond adieu and bon voyage!