Her Story
About Kristyn
Kristyn Bell, CHES is a Public Health Consultant, Writer, and Gastroparesis Advocate based in South Portsmouth, Kentucky. She serves as an Independent Consultant with the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), where she supports professional development initiatives, including webinars, journal self-studies, and stakeholder engagement. In addition, she is a Health Education Specialist with the Association of Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders (AGMD), where she contributes to health education efforts and continues her long-standing advocacy work for individuals affected by gastroparesis and other gastrointestinal motility disorders.
Kristyn’s public health journey is rooted in both lived experience and a deep commitment to health equity and patient advocacy. Following her diagnosis with gastroparesis, she began volunteering in advocacy work more than a decade ago, eventually joining AGMD in 2019 as a writer for its e-magazine before advancing into her current leadership role. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Promotion from Purdue Global and holds an Associate’s degree in Medical Assisting with a clinical concentration. She is also a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) and is currently pursuing her Master of Public Health at Ohio University.
Throughout her career, Kristyn has remained dedicated to advancing compassionate, community-centered public health education. Her work emphasizes chronic illness awareness, mental health advocacy, and the importance of accessible health information for underserved populations. Guided by a strong sense of service, she is passionate about creating systemic change through education and collaboration while encouraging others to feel seen, supported, and empowered in their health journeys. In her personal time, she enjoys creating art, listening to music, spending time with her cat, and continuing to learn and grow.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kristyn
01What do you attribute your success to?
My faith and a servant attitude have guided me. I try to serve others in my capacity and make people feel better. I pay it forward whenever something good happens in my life. Life is short, and I want to find light in things and keep my grandpa's legacy alive.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Take opportunities and do not overthink. It is okay to explore and try something and not like it and try something else. It does not have to be linear. Find yourself in the process.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Explore and find what lights you up. There are so many options in public health. Find your passion. It is okay to explore and try different things. Make yourself happy. Be you. Never quit learning because the world changes.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is ensuring that patients have access to accurate health information and educational resources while navigating an increasingly complex healthcare system. I place strong emphasis on empowering individuals to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions about their care.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are loyalty, honesty, and compassion. I strive to uplift and support others, and I am passionate about being a mental health advocate. My faith and servant’s heart guide the way I approach both service and relationships. I find fulfillment in volunteering, helping others, and intentionally paying it forward by making a positive difference in people’s lives.
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