Arthritis Life
124 episodes - English - Latest episode: 15 days ago -Arthritis life features real patient stories, expert advice, life hacks and more to help you feel more empowered and less alone. Host Cheryl Crow shares her insights from both as a rheumatoid arthritis patient for seventeen years and as an occupational therapist, a health profession that focuses on empowering people with health challenges to function in their daily lives.
This podcast will also include reflections on how you can have the best quality of life possible despite chronic pain, anxiety and other challenging parts of chronic illness.
The goal: to help you manage REAL life with arthritis, beyond joint pain. Let's get started!
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Episodes
“Disability is not a Dirty Word:” Catherine’s Story of Fierce Hope & Young Patient Advocacy
April 11, 2024 17:40 - 1 hour - 61 MBThrough sharing her own story publicly, Catherine learned the importance of disability representation and advocacy for young people. She also delves into why it is crucial to include the voices of young adults in the research and advocacy process. Cheryl and Catherine explore the process of dismantling their own internalized ableism and challenging societal norms around what constitutes a "normal" life. They also challenge the idea that disability is necessarily a “bad” word. They emphasi...
Overcoming Denial, Confronting Food Phobia, and Embracing Online Communities: Ray’s AS and OA Story
March 28, 2024 03:03 - 1 hour - 56.6 MBTrigger warning: orthorexia / eating disorders; fear of foods In Episode 122, Ray shares the shock and emotional turmoil he experienced upon receiving his diagnoses of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and osteoarthritis (OA). He described the initial denial he felt and the process of coming to terms with his diagnoses, acknowledging the emotional toll it took on him and his family. Cheryl and Ray discuss coping strategies, the role of social media, and finding a sup...
Demystifying Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatic Disease and Long Covid: with Christine Stamatos
March 19, 2024 23:23 - 1 hour - 75.4 MBChristine highlights the importance of lifestyle methods to manage chronic conditions including sleep hygiene, stress management, anti inflammatory nutrition, exercise and more. They discuss the importance of focusing on what brings joy and meaning to one's life while managing chronic illness. Overall, the conversation underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to chronic pain management that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the patient's well-being. Episode...
What’s it like to be an Adult Living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? Rebecca Beesley’s Story
March 11, 2024 23:28 - 1 hour - 65 MBCheryl and Rebecca also share misconceptions and talk about the variability and fluctuations of symptoms, as well as reframing limitations and embracing flexibility. They explore the idea of living a "good life" with rheumatic diseases, acknowledging the challenges while emphasizing the possibility of thriving and pursuing one's dreams despite the condition. Episode at a glance: Advocacy and Awareness: Cheryl and Rebecca emphasize the importance of advocating for individuals with juvenile ...
Dancing Through Deformities: Christine’s Rheumatoid Arthritis Story
March 05, 2024 00:19 - 1 hour - 69.3 MBEpisode Summary ****Please see the episode trigger warning below. On episode 119 of the Arthritis Life Podcast, Christine Troyano shares her journey of living, traveling the world and dancing with rheumatoid arthritis. She also opens up about pressures she experienced as a young person to treat her arthritis without medication, and then shares her experiences navigating different treatments to manage her RA over the past 32 years. Christine shares stories of her travels through South Kor...
Living through Diagnostic Purgatory and Rare Medication Side Effects: Rosemary’s Psoriatic Arthritis Story
February 25, 2024 15:56 - 1 hour - 77.1 MBRosemary also shares her experience with a mystery skin rash that ended up being a rare psoriatic arthritis medication side effect: leukocytoclastic vasculitis triggered by drug-induced lupus, and an eventual diagnosis of Palisaded Neutrophilic and Granulomatous Dermatitis. Throughout the episode, Rosemary and Cheryl discuss the importance of coping skills for difficult medical experiences. They also emphasize the importance of finding the right medications, lifestyle strategies, and the r...
How Can Exercise reduce Pain and Fatigue in RA? With Dr. Kimberly Steinbarger, Physical Therapist
February 19, 2024 18:33 - 1 hour - 67.8 MBCheryl and Dr. Kimberly discuss the importance of pain science education to help patients better understand and manage their pain perception. The also explore the importance of building a network of health professionals and support groups to empower patients to advocate for themselves and navigate their treatment journey effectively. They conclude by discussing how to accept limitations while finding joy and adapting to new activities. Episode at a glance: Building Support Networks: Cheryl...
From Dog Training to Occupational Therapy: Lauren’s Ankylosing Spondylitis Journey
February 07, 2024 23:34 - 1 hour - 68 MBIn episode 116 of the Arthritis Life Podcast, Lauren Huffman shares her journey with Ankylosing Spondylitis, and how her passion for occupational therapy and dogs has brought her meaning even through challenges. She and Cheryl give insight into the “behind the scenes” of Arthritis Life, and what resources are available. They discuss the importance of support in navigating rheumatic disease, and how the comprehensive approach of Rheum to THRIVE fills gaps in the healthcare system. Episode ...
From Confused to Confident with Psoriatic Arthritis: Chef Kate’s Story (Re-Release)
February 02, 2024 18:39 - 1 hour - 69.3 MBIn this episode, Kate shares her journey getting diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis while working as a chef in London. She opens up about her post-diagnosis emotional roller coaster and shares how joining Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE online support and education program helped her feel more confident, empowered and supported. She also details other programs that helped her including a mindfulness course and CBT therapy. The episode ends with Kate sharing what it means to her to live a “good l...
Living a Creative Life with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Julia’s Story of Dancing, Acting, Writing and More
January 24, 2024 22:49 - 1 hour - 64.3 MBEpisode at a glance: For full episode show notes go to the episode page here. Diagnosis story: Julia went from having a very active lifestyle, to becoming waking up with pain, fatigue, fever, and other symptoms. After initially thinking her symptoms were from a virus or pushing herself too hard in dance, she received a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Creative Pursuits: Julia expresses joy in dancing, theater, and writing - She shares coping strategies such as planning ahead, giving her...
Are We Out of the Woods Yet? Taylor Swift Songs that Capture the Chronic Illness Experience
January 13, 2024 19:28 - 1 hour - 96.2 MBIn this episode, Cheryl discusses the major themes in Taylor Swift’s music that relate to the chronic illness experience, from the “Haunting” experience of a medication not working anymore to my own “Anti Heroic” immune system to the constant question of “Are We Out of the Woods yet?” when in a flare up. After weaving in and out her own experience with rheumatoid arthritis and anxiety with listener contributions, Cheryl concludes by exploring the the “State of Grace” we experience when we...
From Medical Gaslighting to a Sjogren’s Diagnosis: Dr. Rebecca Hosey’s Story
January 05, 2024 15:51 - 1 hour - 70.2 MBCheryl and Dr. Hosey delve into the importance of accepting the unpredictability of life with chronic illness and redefining what constitutes a "normal" life. This includes a discussion about resilience, mindfulness, and the potential for personal growth in the face of chronic health struggles. Dr. Hosey's shares how she turned her pain into purpose, referencing her upcoming book, 'Girl on a Gurney: Trading my White Coat for a Hospital Gown’. She also provides tangible solutions for medical...
Five Things I wish I had Known When I was Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Update & Re-Release
December 15, 2023 21:09 - 41 minutes - 38.1 MBAfter discovering that episode 14 is the most downloaded of all my Arthritis Life Podcast episodes, I decided to release it with some additional insights from my perspective now. I also provide some updates after facilitating support groups for over 250 people in the last three years. This episode includes a deep dive into how rheumatoid arthritis affects more than just joints – it affects people’s whole bodies, and whole lives. I reflect on the five things I wish I had known when I was fi...
What’s it Like to be on Methotrexate for Autoimmune Arthritis? Panel Discussion #3
December 09, 2023 17:07 - 1 hour - 68.8 MBThis is a follow up to episode 45: “What’s it like to be on Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis or Psoriatic Arthritis?” Paulina, Jenny, Ali, and Ananthi share what’s changed and what has stayed the same with their medications, including whether they’re still on methotrexate. They also reflect on how they’ve navigated the ups and downs of chronic illness life and share how grief and joy can co-exist. They also highlight the importance of finding a supportive community with shared experi...
What is Remission for Rheumatoid Arthritis? With Dr. Isabelle Amigues
November 30, 2023 19:42 - 1 hour - 64.4 MBCheryl and Dr. Amigues touch upon the significance of accurately diagnosing RA and the potential for misdiagnosis, especially as this influences the ability to receive appropriate care. They give valuable insight into the journey of living with RA, and bring a positive perspective that thriving can be possible through effective medical interventions and lifestyle modifications. For full episode details including a transcript and video, go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website. ...
Episode 108 - Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 101, with Emily Taylor from Solve ME
November 16, 2023 20:07 - 57 minutes - 52.8 MBEmily explains what post-exertional malaise is, and highlights the challenges associated with diagnosing and managing ME/CFS. Emily emphasizes the need for personalized care and the critical role of patients in advocating for their own health. This conversation underscores the significance of creating strong support networks for people living with ME/CFS, as well as the broader chronic illness community. They also highlight the value of sharing personal stories to raise awareness and bring a...
The Benefits and Challenges of Publicly Sharing Your Chronic Illness Story: Insights from Brianna | Ep 107
October 26, 2023 18:40 - 1 hour - 59 MBCheryl and Brianna discuss the challenges and the benefits of sharing your chronic illness story publicly on social media, including how they deal with both positive and negative feedback from a growing audience. They also discuss the positive impact of finding support and inspiration online. Brianna shares her involvement with the Arthritis Foundation and the Lupus Foundation, highlighting the importance of giving back and helping others in the community. The role of support groups, cam...
Art, Advocacy, Representation and Acceptance: Tyra Grove's Rheumatoid Arthritis Story
October 13, 2023 15:59 - 1 hour - 69.3 MBSummary: Cheryl and Tyra delve into Tyra's unique journey as a Black woman living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and her inspiring efforts to create a documentary about her experiences. Tyra, an actress and filmmaker, shared how her struggle with RA led her to embark on the documentary project. She discussed the challenges of living with chronic pain, the lack of representation for people of color with RA in media, and the need to make creative spaces more accessible. Tyra emphasizes the i...
Laura Simpson's Story and Autoimmune Community Summit Preview
September 29, 2023 01:36 - 37 minutes - 34 MBSummary: Chery and Laura discuss the importance of connecting with others in the autoimmune community to create a sense of belonging and empowerment. They delve into the diverse offerings at the Autoimmune Association’s upcoming event: the Autoimmune Community Summit. This includes sessions on managing pain and fatigue, communicating with healthcare teams, and exploring dietary strategies, all aimed at empowering patients with autoimmune conditions. Throughout their conversation, Cheryl ...
What’s the latest in Autoimmune Research and How can You Get Involved?
September 22, 2023 13:57 - 56 minutes - 51.7 MBEpisode summary Rheumatologist Dr. Buckner emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and reassures patients that, although there might not be a cure yet, advancements in treatments have significantly improved the quality of life for individuals with autoimmune diseases. She highlights the crucial role of patients in research partnerships, where their input and participation are highly valued, leading to better understanding and management of these conditions. Dr. Mikacenic emphasizes th...
What’s it Like to Run a Thriving Business with Chronic Illness? Nikita Williams’ Story
September 18, 2023 13:56 - 58 minutes - 53.3 MBSummary: Nikita shares her personal journey of acceptance, self-compassion, and finding her center while navigating multiple conditions, including endometriosis, fibromyalgia, and Hashimoto’s. Their conversation delves into the power of mindset in managing chronic pain, the significance of self-love, and the need to let go of self-blame. Cheryl and Nikita highlight the importance of community, finding joy in everyday moments, and the role of pets in providing companionship and comfort. Ni...
Episode 102 - What’s it Like to Live and Work with Axial Spondyloarthritis? Stella Levy’s Story
September 01, 2023 16:04 - 1 hour - 57.8 MBEpisode at a glance: Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment: Stella shares her journey of being diagnosed with axial spondyloarthritis at a young age and the challenges of finding effective treatments. Cheryl emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking alternatives if a treatment is not the right fit. Using Mobility Aids and Devices: Stella and Cheryl discuss the use of mobility aids to help manage the impact that symptoms have on daily life. Stella highlights how using a c...
Climbing the Mountain of Chronic Pain: Dr Furlan on Pain
August 25, 2023 16:30 - 56 minutes - 51.3 MBEpisode at a glance: Relation to autoimmune arthritis: Dr. Furlan is a physician at a pain clinic, a scientist at the rehab institute, and assistant faculty at the University of Toronto. She is a physiatrist who specializes in pain. Understanding Pain: Dr. Furlan explains how pain science is continually advancing and more information about how the brain processes pain is being discovered. There are different types of pain, and multiple systems in the body involved with the sensation/percep...
Cheryl's Diagnosis Story Twenty Years Later: Featuring Cheryl's Parents
August 07, 2023 18:02 - 50 minutes - 46.1 MBEpisode Summary: 🛑Trigger warning: discussion of eating disorders (I did not have one but was accused of lying about causing my weight loss and hiding an ED) 🛑 In this episode, my parents and I share our memories of my diagnosis story, which covers roughly 2001-2004.This includes a discussion about the profound confusion we all experienced when I went from a healthy, robust student athlete to having a “mystery illness” that doctors keep insinuating is “just anxiety” (or an eating disorder...
Finding a Realistic Sense of Hope While Juggling Multiple Chronic Illnesses: Katie’s Story
July 17, 2023 16:53 - 1 hour - 97.2 MBYou are not alone. In this episode, host Cheryl Crow and Rheum to THRIVE Graduate Katie Searfross discuss how to find a realistic sense of hope when coping with multiple fluctuating, complex chronic illnesses that are sometimes out of our control. Katie shares how she copes and finds ways to hold on to moments of joy even when her symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD or complex regional pain syndrome), Migraine and Rheumatoid Arthritis remain. Katie and Cheryl share how they’ve le...
How to Find Your “New Normal” with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Jennifer Weaver’s Story
June 22, 2023 18:43 - 1 hour - 56.9 MBJenni shares how her symptoms were initially dismissed before she got diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. She then got her diagnosis and experienced a rare medication side effect: medically induced pustular psoriasis. Through it all, she also balanced being a mom, wife and friend. In this episode Jenni shares how she learned the importance of social-support, self-advocacy, humor and an unashamed embracing of her “new normal.” Episode at a glance: Diagnosis and treatment Saga: After experi...
How to Track Symptoms Without Getting Stressed & Overwhelmed, with Dr. Millie
June 08, 2023 16:17 - 59 minutes - 54.8 MBEpisode at a glance: What is a naturopathic doctor? Naturopathic doctors use a holistic approach to patient care. They often include nutrition, mind-body medicine, exercise, and natural approaches to their treatment. Naturopathic doctors must take professional board exams in order to be licensed to practice. Mymee: Mymee aims for personalized care for people with autoimmune rheumatic disease and symptoms resulting from long-COVID, aiming to track variables that may make symptoms better or ...
How does RA Affect Identity? Reflections on Gender, Sexual Orientation, Mental Health and More with Psychotherapist Timothy Weymann
May 26, 2023 01:21 - 1 hour - 63.4 MBIn this episode, host Cheryl Crow and psychotherapist Timothy Weymann delve deep into the existential, philosophical questions that chronic illness poses. Is there hope without healing? Is it possible to “make peace with loss and change?” How on earth can you “access a sense of peace in the midst of ambiguity,” particularly when that ambiguity has to do with your own health and wellbeing? Timothy reflects on gender, sexual orientation, disability, acceptance and more, sharing how he used...
What Happens When Your Journey is an Autoimmune Soap Opera? Kelly Conway’s Story
May 10, 2023 19:23 - 1 hour - 61.9 MBKelly shares the long and winding road trialing medications and building her coping toolbox as she navigates an undetermined form of autoimmune arthritis. She shares what it’s like to work as a Speech-Language Pathologist while balancing her health needs, and reflects on the pros and cons of disclosing health information to coworkers. With advocacy and education in mind, Kelly has also co-founded The International Foundation for Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis and is the author o...
What’s in Gittel’s Coping Toolbox? Group Support, Overcoming Ableism & More
April 28, 2023 16:19 - 1 hour - 72.8 MBContent / trigger warning: mass shooting discussion Learning to thrive with chronic illness is a marathon, not a sprint. Cheryl and Gittel discuss coping through unlearning toxic positivity, confronting internalized ableism, getting social support and adapting though accommodations. Gittel shares what’s in her coping toolbox for life with ankylosing spondylitis, from exploring the benefits of medicinal cannabis to getting support in Rheum to THRIVE. Becoming a “life hacker”, learning a...
How to Build Resilience while Living with Chronic Pain: Tips from a Psychologist & Pain Researcher, with Dr. Afton Hassett
April 18, 2023 20:54 - 1 hour - 60.9 MBSummary: Psychologist Dr. Afton Hassett and Cheryl Crow, OT explore the neuroscience behind chronic pain and how its interconnection with fatigue, sleep, stress, and emotions may affect your experience of pain over time. Dr. Hassett is an Associate Professor and Director of Pain and Opioid Research in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Michigan. In this episode, she explains how pain is not "all in your head," however it is in your BRAIN! Because the areas of your brain...
“The Art of Reframing:” Cheryl Koehn on Learning to Love Herself & Life with Rheumatoid Arthritis
March 28, 2023 19:04 - 1 hour - 76.1 MBCheryl C. and Cheryl K. share key tools for thriving with arthritis, like finding ways to ask for help, developing health literacy, practicing self-compassion, and getting support. They also discuss the safety of modern medicine and how to balance it with complementary therapies to create an individualized plan for managing rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, they delve into the mental health techniques that have helped them cope, including: reframing exercises, and working past bias. Che...
It’s Not Just Dry Eyes: Deep Dive into Systemic Sjogren’s Disease with Dr Kara Wada
March 16, 2023 21:23 - 1 hour - 68.4 MBDr. Wada and Cheryl delve into the connection between Sjogren’s and Rheumatoid Arthritis, discover what’s in Dr. Wada’s disease management toolkit, and share insights into living a full, vibrant life with chronic illness. Dr. Wada and Cheryl also share insights into how mental health can be affected by chronic illness, and reflect on how the “overachiever” lifestyle is not always helpful. They encourage listeners to focus on making decisions that align with their values and target living we...
Hand Therapy Secrets Everyone with Arthritis Should Know, with Certified Hand Therapist & OT Hoang Tran
March 10, 2023 04:06 - 1 hour - 81.3 MBEpisode summary In this episode, occupational therapists Cheryl Crow & Hoang Tran go in depth on how and why the human hand is so complex, and how people with inflammatory arthritis can take good care of their hands to relieve hand pain and improve function. This episode includes an in depth exploration of what it’s like to see a hand therapist, why hand therapy helps people with arthritis, what people with rheumatic diseases need to know about hand anatomy, and how to advocate for yoursel...
How to Cope when your Diagnosis Changes: Clare's Myofascial Pain Syndrome Story
February 28, 2023 17:35 - 1 hour - 67.3 MBClare and Cheryl share tips for how to cope with periods of no diagnosis or changing diagnosis. Clare also provides insights from her unique perspective as someone diagnosed with autism as an adult, soon after her myofascial pain syndrome diagnosis. Cheryl and Clare discuss the importance of perseverance in seeking help, building a personalized treatment plan, and ways to find joy in the midst of chronic illness while accepting that it’s okay to feel sad or angry too. The episode conclud...
From Burlesque Dancing to Support Groups: How Marisa Thrives with Rheumatoid Arthritis
February 02, 2023 20:17 - 54 minutes - 50.2 MBIn this episode, Marisa shares what it was like to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis around her thirtieth birthday after thinking her wrist pain was only carpel tunnel syndrome. She opens up about her mixed emotions after her diagnosis and shares what helps her cope and thrive, including burlesque dancing, group fitness, the Rheum to THRIVE support group program and more. The episode concludes with a discussion about how Cheryl and Marisa learned to be kind to themselves. Episode at a ...
How I Survived “Survival Mode:” Marriage, Faith & Near Death Experiences with Vasculitis Warrior Hayley “Hay” Farris
January 17, 2023 17:36 - 1 hour - 78.3 MBTrigger warning: This episode includes a discussion of near-death experiences, medical trauma and decisions about quality of life versus prolonging of life. If you are having a mental health crisis or are struggling with suicidal thoughts, in the US you may call “988” for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which is staffed 24 hours a day. In this episode, Hay shares her tumultuous experiences with autoimmune vasculitis. She and Cheryl urge fellow chronic illness warriors to resist trying to f...
Yoga is a Philosophy, Not Just an Exercise: Demystifying Yoga for Arthritis with Dr. Steffany Moonaz
January 04, 2023 04:30 - 56 minutes - 51.9 MBYoga therapist and researcher Dr. Steffany Moonaz and host Cheryl Crow discuss the many benefits of yoga for people with inflammatory arthritis. They also bust common myths and misconceptions about yoga, including that it’s just an exercise or series of physical poses. Dr. Moonaz shares her best tips for patients newly diagnosed with arthritis and explains how the philosophy of yoga can help people with arthritis fully embrace the present moment and improve overall wellbeing. Dr. Moonaz is...
“It’s a Moving Target:” How to Cope with Rheumatoid Arthritis Ups and Downs, with Emily Jacobs
December 10, 2022 01:40 - 1 hour - 90.4 MBAfter being a fierce athlete and playing Division 1 water polo, Emily was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 22. She shares lessons learned while working as a night shift nurse for 12 years and having three children. Emily & Cheryl discuss ways to cope with the ups and downs of chronic illness, especially during times of uncertainty or when it seems the disease is posing “moving targets.” Emily shares what helps her thrive despite obstacles, including: having a supportive commun...
“No one Tells You About the Uncertainty:” Dianna’s RA Story
November 23, 2022 19:18 - 1 hour - 59 MBEpisode at a Glance: Dianne’s Diagnosis story and subsequent emotional roller coaster Dianna’s Treatment Journey: Dianna went from resistant to medicines to trying a biologic and feeling a large improvement in symptoms The Importance of Support - Dianna shares how the Rheum to THRIVE group support & education program was a “lifeline” and helped her get out of a cycle of self-blame. She highlights the ways she learned how to explain her condition to others and process some of the social ef...
It’s not Your Fault: How Marion learned to Avoid Self-Blame While Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis
November 03, 2022 22:19 - 1 hour - 64 MBEpisode at a glance: Marion’s Diagnosis Story Marion’s Treatment Journey: changes in medications over 15 years, Working while Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: from struggling in silence to disclosing and getting support How Marion went from feeling guilty and afraid she’d be seen as “lazy” to realizing her condition wasn’t her fault Values: How RA led Marion to “crystallize her values” and redefine what success means to her, and to become more assertive The role of online support comm...
Finding Acceptance and Community with Chronic Illness, with Nitika Chopra, CEO of Chronicon
October 20, 2022 16:43 - 59 minutes - 54.6 MBNitika and Cheryl discuss how acceptance is an ongoing journey when living with multiple chronic health conditions, and share insights into how they cope with uncertainty. Nitika shares how and why she founded the incredibly impactful Chronicon conference and online community which inspires and uplifts people living with chronic illness around the globe. Nitika and Cheryl also discuss what brings them joy and how they balance present moment acceptance with hope for the future. Episode at a...
How to Cope With Comorbidities: Jan's Story
October 10, 2022 03:19 - 1 hour - 60 MBIn this episode, seasoned patient and registered nurse (RN) Jan Hempstead shares her best tips for managing stress and living a fulfilling life with multiple comorbidities. Jan lives with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobile type (EDS), hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (HAT), Dysautonomia, and more. This includes discussions about the importance of support (including Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE program) and mindfulness, meditation and Stoic Philosophy in Jan’s journey. Epi...
Computer Programming, Medical Retirement and the power of Art: Lessons from Wendy Hawkins
September 30, 2022 14:48 - 59 minutes - 54.6 MBEpisode at a Glance: Wendy’s diagnosis story of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis as a baby Growing up in the 1970s and 1980s with JRA: Wendy shares her ups and downs, from acceptance in grade school to isolation in high school and young adulthood (when she first met someone with her same condition at age 26) Treatments: Reflections on how treatments have changed in the current era as compared to the 1980s Career choices with JRA: Wendy’s shares how she managed a career as a computer program...
From Confused to Confident with Psoriatic Arthritis: Chef Kate’s Story
September 20, 2022 21:52 - 2 hours - 144 MBIn this episode, Kate shares her journey getting diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis while working as a chef in London. She opens up about her post-diagnosis emotional roller coaster and shares how joining Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE online support and education program helped her feel more confident, empowered and supported. She also details other programs that helped her including a mindfulness course and CBT therapy. The episode ends with Kate sharing what it means to her to live a “good l...
Loving Your Body through Fitness and Sexual Intimacy: Insights from Liv Loo
September 02, 2022 14:40 - 1 hour - 65.2 MBContent Warning - This episode contains profanity and explicit sexual content Episode at a glance: Liv’s diagnosis story for juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis Highlights and lowlights of growing up with juvenile idiopathic arthritis Liv’s Fitness and self-advocacy Journey: switching jobs to protect her energy and stress levels and finding her own personal training business MovetoLiv When to push and when to rest? Mindfulness and being present even in pain discussion Busting t...
Rheumatoid Arthritis at age 30 versus 40: Cheryl’s Story
August 06, 2022 15:48 - 59 minutes - 54.5 MBCheryl reflects on a blog post she wrote at age thirty called: “Ten Years with Rheumatoid Arthritis: What’s the Impact?” This includes a deep dive into the physical effects of rheumatoid arthritis, effects on my daily routines, as well as finances, social and emotional life, school, career, hobbies, travel and overall life philosophy. Cheryl shares how pregnancy and parenting changed her disease progression, and details how she coped with additional health issues and injuries in her thirt...
Riding the Rheumatoid Arthritis Rollercoaster: Methotrexate, Medication Changes and More with Ali DiGiacomo
July 25, 2022 04:49 - 28 minutes - 26.3 MBAli and Cheryl discuss how overwhelming medication changes can be, and Ali describes what it was like to switch doses of methotrexate, switch to a new biologic medication and add prednisone and NDSAIDs in the mix. Ali & Cheryl also discuss what it’s like to have costochondritis and how they cope with unresolved health issues while still trying to live a full, joyful life. This episode also includes reflections about how to cope with social media jealousy within the chronic illness communit...
How to Love Your Body While Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis
July 13, 2022 02:58 - 54 minutes - 49.8 MBStefanie was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis after the birth of her first child. In this episode, she shares how her weight gain and difficulty performing daily tasks led to a negative body image. Cheryl and Stefanie discuss ways to overcome ableism and shame, and gain a sense of body positivity or at least a “body neutral” stance. They also discuss the importance of self compassion and challenging societal norms. For full episode details including a transcript, go to the show page. ...
“Camp is Where She Can Be Herself:” The importance of Community with JIA
June 29, 2022 14:53 - 1 hour - 79.2 MBIn this episode, parents Leeza Broome and Courtney Bruce share why arthritis-specific summer camps have been such a lifeline to their families over the years. As volunteers, they helped start the very first Pacific Northwest family camp for kids with arthritis, “KAT-Fish Camp,” which has historically been put on by the Arthritis Foundation. Cheryl also shares her experiences volunteering at the camp. All three speakers share their favorite camp memories from the last two decades and explor...