Jeanne Johansson is the picture of health. She is the vibrant, energetic, and easygoing owner of Scarlet boutique and local style icon with an endearing depth of character and perspective on life. No one would ever suspect that 13 years ago she was completely paralyzed for three months of her life. While in college, Jeanne began having symptoms of paralysis which quickly spread throughout her body. At the time she couldn't stand, hold anything in her hands or roll over in bed.

Jeanne's doctor in her hometown of Batesville diagnosed her with Guillain-Barre syndrome, an acute polyneuropathy disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. The rare syndrome (one or two cases per 100,000 people are diagnosed annually) causes ascending paralysis, beginning with weakness in the hands and feet. The paralysis migrates towards the trunk and can cause life-threatening complications, particularly if the breathing muscles are affected or the autonomic nervous system is involved.

Prompt treatment and supportive care are keys to a patient’s complete recovery. Jeanne credits her family and friends, as well as the swift diagnosis and treatment provided by her doctor, with her full recovery.

“I had to re-learn how to walk and everything," Jeanne says. "I don’t think my mom ever left my hospital room for the three months that I was there. My parents are just great. I could go on and on about them.”

Jeanne's experience with the disorder inspired her zeal for life: “It taught me to not take anything for granted and to not worry over small things,” she says. Now as a business owner and mom to two-year-old daughter Jett, she translates that attitude into her relationships with customers and her family.

That includes her relationship with husband Oskar Johansson, who she proclaims is a wonderful example of patience and love. “He is great with kids. Having Jett has deepened our bond to one another and made me appreciate a whole new side of him,” she says, beaming.

Though, Oskar and Jeanne deal with the same struggles as most parents, including making time for each other. “When you’re wrestling tired babies, there is a lot less time to spend on your relationship with your husband, much less friends and family,” she says, suggesting that parents try to plan couple time, such as going on dates or simply sharing a favorite TV show to watch together.

When the subject turns to parenting, Jeanne admits that she took a parenting quiz online prior to her LRF interview that categorized her as ‘involved but flexible.' “I want to be the best mom I can be, but I have to prioritize things by what truly matters,” she says.

And being a mom doesn't always come easy; Jeanne says that though she views pregnancy as a blessing, her own experience carrying Jett was a challenging one. “I was used to getting up early and going strong all day. I didn’t feel like myself. Looking back, I was probably a little depressed for a while. There were times I felt like I was never going anywhere again.”

Because of her independent nature, she was hesitant to ask for or accept help from others. She eventually did and encourages all new moms to do the same. “I wish I would’ve embraced pregnancy and having a newborn a little better," she shares. "I guess I never thought about the challenges because of all the excitement. But you live and learn. So if I’m lucky enough to become pregnant again, you can hold me to it!”

From parenting advice to fashion advice, she encourages moms not to give up on dressing fashionably, or feeling and looking their best. “I want to help keep moms from settling into a rut, which is easy to do. I love when women are confident enough to dress fun and trendy, but age-appropriate at the same time.”

LRF: What are your favorite parenting moments?
JJ: My favorite times are when Jett first wakes up. She crawls into bed with us to snuggle. Her hair is all messy and she says something so cute that doesn’t make any sense.

I also love to watch her on plane rides, when we visit Oskar’s side of the family in Sweden. It’s so great seeing her with her relatives. We love walking everywhere and going to the parks over there.  

What are your hopes for Jett?
I hope she is healthy and stays close to family…a big, close family. I also hope Jett finds something that she’s really passionate about, and that she enjoys life every day!

MOMMY FASHION BASICS

• Stay away from clothes that need to be dry cleaned until babies are older.  
• Keep a few stylish pieces you really love to boost confidence.
• Stock your closet with two blazers and/or sweaters. “A good black blazer can make you feel put together, polished and still camouflage areas you feel uncomfortable with, especially after having a baby,” Jeanne says. Dress it up for business or throw over cute tees for casual functions.
• Invest in cool boots or fun (maybe studded) Converse tennis shoes.
• Wear maxi dresses with leggings.
• Remember: Classic and cool.

BACK TO SCHOOL FASHION BASICS
Jeanne says, “Back to school fashion should be comfortable and realistic for the activities your kids are involved in. Their fashion should be about fun and their personalities, and not too fussy.”

She suggests buying cute cotton tees, pants/leggings, and a fun pair of shoes like a brightly-hued pair of Converse. “Color is key,” she emphasizes. For best buys, she also suggests shopping at big box venues like Target, Old Navy and J. Crew children's line, Crewcuts.

Jeanne places pictures from catalogues, magazines or online look books near Jett’s closet for quick ideas on layering, colors and how to wear the same pieces in different combinations. She suggests moms not only pick out childrens' outfits the night before, but also their own. You'll wake up ready to tackle the day's activities in an inspired and put-together outfit, and have a little time alone to collect your thoughts.