In late 2007, I left a well-established career as a physical therapist working with Olympic athletes and my lifelong home in Adelaide, Australia, to move to Brisbane, 1300 miles from almost everything I knew and loved. I felt happier and healthier there within just a few days of the move than I had in almost a decade. The wisdom of epigenetics had changed my life.

I suffer from familial amyloid polyneuropathy, a disease triggered by a mutation of the TTR gene. The disease is both neurodegenerative and autoimmune. It’s a diagnosis that, on average, is fatal within 10 years. By the time I moved to Brisbane, I had already had symptoms for almost a year. Did I only have 9 years left? The symptoms began suddenly for me with sharp stabbing pain in my chest in early 2007, which quickly spread to my spine. I had never in my life experienced pain so severe and unrelenting. Without many options for effective treatment, I tried what was offered: pain and anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, and mobilization exercises. Nothing helped.

I began researching genetics, and whether my mutated TTR gene could be changed. My research led me to a few geneticists and researchers in the field of epigenetics, which studies the factors that can influence the expression of genes. Epigenetic factors include elements like diet, exercise, stress, and the environment in which we live.

Discovering the power of my lifestyle and environment to harm or to heal, I was inspired to found The Ultimate Human Foundation, a nonprofit organization aimed at utilizing epigenetics and personalized health to improve wellness around the world. Alongside a global team of doctors, researchers and scientists, I developed a wellness platform that applies epigenetics and geomedicine to deliver personalized health insights, and inspire the rise of health as a priority in societies across the globe.

Read more about Matt’s story in his book: The ph360 solution, Your personalized path to optimal health. Available soon.

First and foremost, my vision is to do my best to contribute towards a humanity free from chronic pain and disease. To end needless suffering of individuals, communities, nations, of the world with the necessary evolution of future health concepts, strategies and interventions. To see the integration of ancient and modern wisdom, science and technology to provide user-friendly models and engage global participation in P5 Health – predictive, preventative, personalized, participatory and promoted. To inspire others to live a full and passionate life. To educate and empower each and every person across the globe to know what is right, specifically for their body, to take control of their future health. To speak a message that resonates with all of our different neurotypes in order to create behavioural change that is sustainable. To be a leader, and a leading learner, of the things that really matter. To appreciate my existence and be in awe of the intricacies of the art that is the human body. To be grateful for my friends, my family and the opportunities that present yesterday, today and tomorrow. To live, laugh, love, have fun and enjoy every moment in the moment. Click here to access Matt’s Media Kit .