Looking for your next great read? Host of About IBD, Amber Tresca, gives her year-end roundup of books, with brief summaries and her reflections on each. The selections cover a mix of genres, from speculative fiction and psychological thrillers to memoir and dark fantasy, often touching on themes of trauma, community, self-acceptance, and chronic illness. Amber shares how the stories resonated with her experience as a GenX mom living with a chronic illness, offering both recommendations and caveats. She also discusses practical tips for accessing books affordably through libraries and apps, and encourages exploring local bookstores or thrift shops to boost your reading journey and sense of community.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD192

Find Amber's 2025 books at Bookshop.org

Chapters:

• 00:05 — Introduction and Episode Overview — Amber introduces herself, the podcast, and the year-end book review episode.
• 01:08 — Book 1: Beautyland by Marie Helene Bertino — Summary, themes, and reflections on the coming-of-age story of an alien observing human life.
• 03:35 Book 2: The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult — Summary, dual timelines, ancient Egypt, and personal frustrations with the main character.
• 06:10 — Book 3: Doctor Sleep by Stephen King — Summary, differences between book and movie, trauma, and post-Shining life for Danny Torrance.
• 09:57 — Book 4: We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer — Summary, psychological horror, reality distortion, and the challenges of ambiguous endings.
• 12:23 — Book 5: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig — Summary, alternate lives, regret, self-acceptance, and critique of the book's premise.
• 16:07 — Library Resources and Digital Media Tips — Amber shares how she accesses books via library apps and encourages listeners to use library resources.
• 17:36 — Book 6: A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher — Summary, dark fantasy, abuse, coming of age, and resilience in a retelling of Goose Girl.
• 20:40 — Book 7: Death Valley by Melissa Broder — Summary, magical realism, chronic illness depiction, and reflections on escapism and coping.
• 24:21 — Book 8: One of Us Knows by Alyssa Cole — Summary, dissociative identity disorder, pandemic context, and a unique take on the locked-room thriller.
• 27:07— Book 9: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman — Summary, community, connection, and critique of the book's tone and humor.
• 31:06 — Book 10: A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost — Summary, comedic memoir, personal anecdotes, and recommendation of the audiobook version.
• 33:44 — Book Shopping, Thrifting, and Community Reflections — Amber discusses supporting bookstores, thrifting, and the importance of reading for community and personal growth.
• 36:07 — Closing Remarks and Call to Action — Amber wraps up, encourages listener engagement, and provides information about show notes and future book clubs.

Books Amber Contributed to in 2025:

• Living with Fire: A Patient's Guide to Thriving with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases
• Wellness Through Words: A Multivocal Anthology on Healthcare, Patient Safety, and Wellness

Library apps mentioned in this episode:

• Libby
• Hoopla
• Freegal Music

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @AboutIBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD191

Kinsey Beagley, a pediatric medical assistant diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 15, shares about her experiences with IBD, including struggling with symptoms, multiple medication failures, and eventually having J-pouch surgery. Kinsey shares how reframing difficult experiences and adopting a positive mindset—her mantra is "I can do hard things"—has helped her cope.

Chapters

• 00:04 Introduction and Guest Introduction
• 02:05 Kinsey's Diagnosis Story
• 04:42 Initial Treatments and Medication Journey
• 06:06 Decision for Surgery
• 07:09 Emotional Impact of Taking a Gap Year
• 09:05 How and When Surgery Was Discussed
• 10:12 Life After J-Pouch Surgery
• 12:30 Reframing Difficult Experiences
• 14:04 Advice on Positive Mindset
• 15:35 Inspiration for a Healthcare Career
• 17:38 Applying Patient Experience to Her Work
• 18:52 Hiking and Bathroom Anxiety
• 21:19 Managing Hydration and Pouch Function
• 22:29 Coping with Bathroom Anxiety in Daily Life
• 26:24 Practicing Pouch Control and Mental Adjustment
• 27:26 Where to Find Kinsey Online
• 28:07 Closing Remarks and Outro

Some of the topics discussed include:

• Personal journey of living with ulcerative colitis from diagnosis to treatment.
• Decision-making process regarding surgical options and the emotional impact of surgery.
• Experiences and challenges of living with a J-pouch post-surgery.
• Importance of maintaining a positive mindset and reframing difficult experiences.
• Strategies for managing anxiety in social situations and daily activities.
• Tips for outdoor activities and managing bathroom access while hiking.
• The significance of community support and patient-centered care in chronic illness management.

Find Kinsey Beagley at:

• TikTok: @unifyinguc
• Instagram: @unifyinguc

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Katryna Loewen, a registered nurse diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2020, shares her journey through severe flare-ups, incontinence, and her decision to have a colectomy and ileostomy in 2024. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges of living with IBD, the stigma of ostomies, and how these experiences shaped her life, relationships, and career. Katryna also describes managing her mental health, planning her wedding, and preparing for motherhood, offering hope and practical advice to others with IBD.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD190

Chapters:

• 00:04 Introduction and Guest Background
• 02:09 Katrina's Nursing Career
• 03:08 Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis
• 04:48 Remission and Flare-Ups
• 05:09 Severe Flare in 2023
• 07:08 Decision for Surgery
• 10:36 Facing Ostomy Surgery
• 14:08 Acceptance and Life with an Ostomy
• 16:08 Impact of IBD on Mental Health
• 17:18 Incontinence Experiences
• 23:31 Tracking Symptoms and Advocacy
• 26:23 Wedding with IBD
• 28:45 Therapy and Emotional Recovery
• 32:06 Pregnancy After Ostomy Surgery
• 37:50 Preparing Pets for Baby
• 41:54 Support Networks and Advice
• 43:32 Where to Find Katrina
• 43:38 Closing Remarks

Find Katryna Loewen at:

• Instagram: @goingpains88

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Samantha Sauer, BCPA, president of Gastroparesis Patient Association for Cures and Treatments (G-PACT), uncovers the challenges of living with gastroparesis and how it can overlap with IBD or other conditions. Sam shares her personal journey with gastroparesis and gives insights on symptoms, diagnosis, misconceptions, and the daily impact on patients' lives. Topics include the difficulties in getting the right diagnosis, the emotional toll of dietary restriction, and the importance of support communities. Sam also highlights resources offered by G-PACT, including support groups and educational outreach, while encouraging self-advocacy and perseverance for those seeking answers or support for their condition.

Timestamps on this episode:

• 0:04 – Introduction and Guest Background
• 1:25 – Samantha's Diagnosis Journey
• 4:17 – What is Gastroparesis? Symptoms and Diagnosis
• 7:19 – Misdiagnosis and Overlapping Conditions
• 10:50 – Inflammation and Gastroparesis
• 12:18 – Impact on Daily and Social Life
• 16:22 – Social Challenges and Stigma
• 18:47 – Common Myths and Misconceptions
• 22:00 – Gastroparesis and IBD Overlap
• 24:57 – Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges
• 27:32 – GPACT Resources and Support
• 31:32 – Advice for Suspected Gastroparesis Patients
• 33:09 – How to Connect with GPACT
• 36:18 – Samantha's Treadmill and Movement Routine
• 38:42 – Closing Remarks and Gratitude

More information on the topics discussed:

• Surviving Out of Spite Podcast via YouTube
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) Is a Procedure to Examine Your GI Tract via Verywell Health
• Metoclopramide: Treatment for Nausea & Vomiting
• Relationship Between Gastroparesis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A United States Nationwide Sized Database Analysis
• Gastroparesis in patients with inactive Crohn's disease: a case series
• Surviving Out of Spite Podcast

Find Samantha Sauer, BCPA and Gastroparesis Patient Association for Cures and Treatments (G-PACT) on:

• Web: www.g-pact.org
• Facebook: @GPACT
• Instagram: @4gpact
• YouTube: @GPACT_nonprofit
• LinkedIn: @gpact

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music: IBD Dance Party, © Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Amber and Mariah discuss how women with chronic illnesses cope with advice on medication use in pregnancy—especially in light of the confusion around acetaminophen. Mariah shares her experiences with rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy, focusing on changes in medication safety data. They talk about the pressure, stigma, and lack of support for pregnant women, the need for nuanced guidance, and provide resources.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD188

This episode sponsored by Fathom Care! Fathom is an AI-powered wellness companion made for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Over 2.4M people in the United States are navigating IBD alone, and Fathom is here to change that. Learn more at: https://fathom.care/

Chapters:

• 00:04 Intro & Guest Introduction
• 01:26 FDA Statement on Acetaminophen & Pregnancy
• 02:55 Concerns About Acetaminophen Guidance
• 04:03 Mariah's RA & Pregnancy Experience
• 07:13 Impact of Medication Decisions
• 07:33 Biologics & Medication Safety
• 09:45 Pressure to Avoid Medications
• 10:05 Balancing Risks: Medication vs. Flare
• 12:06 Stigma & Judgment Around Medication Use
• 13:19 Authority Statements & Social Stigma
• 15:10 "Tough It Out" Mentality
• 17:11 Societal Judgment & Pregnancy Experiences
• 17:53 Infusion Appointments While Pregnant
• 19:09 Sponsor: Fathom Care App
• 20:59 History of Blaming Mothers & Autism
• 22:17 Societal Support & Pregnancy Discrimination
• 24:04 Expectations vs. Realities of Pregnancy
• 25:58 Reframing Autism & Neurodiversity
• 28:15 Resources for Pregnancy & Chronic Illness
• 30:01 Importance of Up-to-Date Data & Planning
• 33:20 Medication Changes & Specialist Involvement
• 34:49 Changing Data & Continuing Education
• 36:25 Mamas Facing Forward: Community & Support
• 38:48 Peer Support & Parenting with Chronic Illness
• 40:08 Mariah's Background & Expertise
• 41:19 Personal Updates & Closing
• 42:42 Final Thoughts & Outro

Concepts discussed on this episode:

• About IBD Podcast Episode 71- I Evaluated What Was Really Important to Me
• Screaming on the Inside: The Unsustainability of American Motherhood — Jessica Grose
• Notice to Physicians on the Use of Acetaminophen During Pregnancy — US FDA
• The IBD Parenthood Project
• Does taking Tylenol during pregnancy cause autism? The evidence says 'no.' — UCHealth
• MotherToBaby, a service of the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists
• Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)
• PIANO (Pregnancy Inflammatory bowel disease And Neonatal Outcomes) Study

Find Mariah Leach, JD, MS at:

• Web: MamasFacingForward.com
• Instagram: @mamasforward
• Facebook: @mamasfacingforward
• LinkedIn: @mariahzebrowski

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Sean Lochran, who lives with IBD and an ileostomy, describes his IBD journey, including complications such as blood clots and adrenal insufficiency. Sean shares advice for staying active on difficult days, including the importance of personalization, hydration, and tracking health data. He debunks misconceptions about exercise with IBD or an ostomy and describes his client-centered approach to fitness coaching, grounded in empathy and lived experience.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD187

This episode sponsored by Fathom Care! Fathom is an AI-powered wellness companion made for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Over 2.4M people in the United States are navigating IBD alone, and Fathom is here to change that. Learn more at: https://fathom.care/

Chapters in this episode:

• 00:04 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 01:20 – Sean's Diagnosis Journey
• 02:59 – Complications: Adrenal Insufficiency and Prednisone
• 04:08 – Living with Adrenal Insufficiency
• 05:34 – Blood Clots and IBD
• 08:36 – Mental Impact of Complications
• 10:20 – Pre-Diagnosis Fitness and Lifestyle
• 12:29 – Managing Fatigue and Flare-Ups
• 14:23 – Sponsor Message: Fathom Care App
• 16:15 – Coaching Clients: Fatigue vs. Tiredness
• 17:32 – Tracking and Adjusting Fitness Plans
• 18:55 – Practical Tips for Staying Active During Flares
• 23:47 – Weekly Averages and Progress Tracking
• 25:21 – Misconceptions About Fitness and IBD
• 26:50 – What It's Like to Work with Sean
• 30:38 – Learning to Understand Your Body
• 31:45 – Visiting Scotland: Local Recommendations
• 34:27 – How to Connect with Sean
• 36:04 – Closing Remarks and Credits

Find Sean Lochran at:

• Instagram: @seanlochrancoaching

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Every person living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can help change public policy by sharing their story and participating in advocacy events, such as visiting legislators in Washington, D.C. Amber talks to Kelly E. Dwyer, who teaches us how to prepare an elevator speech and gives us practical tips for Hill Day logistics, working within teams, staying emotionally resilient, and following up with staffers. Advocacy is for everyone, and persistence and collaboration can lead to real policy changes to benefit the IBD and chronic illness communities. By the end of the episode, you'll have the real resources you can use to do this work as a patient advocate both locally and nationally. This episode is sponsored by Connecting to Cure. Transcript and more information: https://bit.ly/AIBD186 Chapters:

• 00:05 Introduction and Guest Background
• 01:23 The Role and Nature of Patient Advocacy
• 02:37 The Long Game of Advocacy: Successes and Challenges
• 04:37 Advocacy vs. Activism and Personal Motivation
• 06:05 The Importance of Patient Stories in Advocacy
• 06:52 Crafting and Delivering Your Elevator Speech
• 11:46 Managing Emotions and Practicing Your Story
• 15:42 Preparing for Advocacy Day: Research and Teamwork
• 18:07 Training and Building Confidence for Hill Visits
• 20:58 Coordinating with Your Advocacy Team
• 22:38 Practical Logistics: What to Wear and Security
• 24:42 Navigating Capitol Hill: Accessibility and Facilities
• 29:26 Managing the Day: Scheduling and Flexibility
• 32:17 During the Meeting: Structure and Communication
• 36:04 Group Dynamics and Respectful Storytelling
• 40:29 Building Relationships and Following Up
• 42:12 How to Get Involved with Advocacy Groups
• 44:42 Financial Considerations and Accessibility
• 45:17 Encouragement and Closing Thoughts on Advocacy
• 47:12 Lessons Learned the Hard Way
• 50:33 Closing Remarks and Gratitude
• 51:22 Outro and Credits

Topics on this episode:

• Overview of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Personal experiences of living with IBD and the impact on daily life.
• The role of patient advocacy in improving healthcare policies and patient rights.
• Challenges faced by patients regarding insurance barriers and treatment access.
• Importance of sharing personal stories with legislators to influence policy change.
• Distinction between activism and advocacy in the context of healthcare.
• Strategies for effective communication and preparation for advocacy efforts.
• The significance of teamwork and collaboration in advocacy initiatives.
• Resources and organizations that support IBD advocacy and patient education.
• Emotional aspects of sharing health experiences and the importance of building relationships with legislative staff.

Find Kelly E. Dwyer at:

• Web: https://www.keepingmyshittogether.com
• Twitter: @keepingmyshitTG
• Instagram: @keepingmyshittogether

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Amber interviews artist Daniel Leighton, who shares his journey living with Crohn's disease from childhood. Daniel tells us how he didn't think of himself as an artist, but painting became a vital tool for expressing emotions and coping with complex PTSD related to chronic illness. He offers some advice for those intimidated by starting a journey into creativity and describes how art validates the experiences of people with chronic illness. Daniel's artwork, inspired by his medical journey, helps others with IBD feel seen and less alone, highlighting the role of art in emotional healing and community connection.

This episode contains a discussion of medical trauma and complex PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), so please take care when listening. Check the show notes for a description and time stamps, in case you want to skip certain sections.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD185

Chapters:

• 00:01 Intro & Content Warning
• 2:40 Daniel's IBD Journey & Surgeries
• 5:15 Early J-Pouch Surgery
• 6:24 Discovering Art as an Outlet
• 11:24 Art for Processing Trauma
• 15:21 Getting Started with Art
• 17:23 Art, PTSD & Chronic Illness
• 18:43 Connecting to Cure
• 19:57 Evolution of Artwork
• 21:30 Depicting Pain in Art
• 22:39 Trying New Things
• 23:44 Specific Artworks & Meanings
• 29:24 First Surgery & Trauma
• 33:12 Evolving Trauma Over Time
• 34:22 Art as a Bridge
• 38:08 Medical Restraint Trauma
• 40:52 Power of Not Feeling Alone
• 42:15 Lessons Learned the Hard Way
• 43:56 "Here Comes the Flood"
• 46:49 Self-Compassion & Healing Timelines
• 47:55 Ballroom Dancing & New Experiences
• 50:38 Where to Find Daniel's Art
• 51:44 Closing & Credits

Topics discussed on this episode:

• The role of art as an outlet for expressing emotions related to living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Personal experiences of living with Crohn's disease, including diagnosis and surgeries.
• The therapeutic benefits of using art to process trauma and cope with chronic illness.
• Practical advice for using art as a form of emotional expression, regardless of artistic skill level.
• The importance of self-compassion and recognizing individual healing timelines.
• The impact of trauma on emotional expression and the need for safe spaces to feel emotions.
• The evolution of personal artwork and its connection to experiences with IBD.
• Encouragement to embrace intimidating activities as a means of personal growth and healing.
• The significance of creating visual representations of emotions, such as "pain charts."
• The importance of community and connection in the journey of living with chronic illness.

Links to information mentioned in this episode:

• Miller-Ocuin JL, Dietz DW. The Evolution of Pelvic Pouch Surgery: Optimal Pouch Design for an Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2022;35(6):453-457. doi:10.1055/s-0042-1758135.
• Morgan Check, NP: @morgancheckgastronp
• Taft TH, Bedell A, Craven MR, Guadagnoli L, Quinton S, Hanauer SB. Initial Assessment of Post-traumatic Stress in a US Cohort of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2019;25(9):1577-1585. doi:10.1093/ibd/izz032.
• Gomez DA, Ahmad-Waqar M, Brookes MJ, Kumar A. IBD-related mental health disorders: where do we go from here? Frontline Gastroenterol. 2023;14(6):512-520. doi:10.1136/flgastro-2023-102403.

Find Daniel Leighton at:

• Facebook: @DanielLeightonArt
• Instagram: @DanielLeightonArt
• Substack: @danielleightonart
• Artwork: https://danielleighton.com/art-inspired-by-living-with-crohns-disease-ulcerative-colitis-a-deep-dive-into-personal-experiences/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdxRCTh6aPaaEgX07agRsFg
• Web: https://danielleighton.com/

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD184 Amber talks with Aaron Blocker, a Crohn's disease patient and advocate, about the importance of finding and creating community for people touched by IBD. Online and in-person groups offer support and serve as platforms to share practical tips and counter misinformation. Aaron points out that it's important to find a balance between advocacy, health, and personal life when offering support to others. Both emphasize the value of authenticity and learning from mistakes. The conversation stresses the importance of caring for mental health, the power of connection, and staying true to one's own reasons for taking part in community. Topics discussed on this episode:

• Importance of community for people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Challenges and rewards of sharing disease experiences online
• Navigating negative comments and misinformation in online communities
• Strategies for engaging with IBD communities and providing support
• Balancing community involvement with personal health and family life
• Mental health considerations when participating in online discussions
• Importance of authenticity and passion in advocacy work
• Addressing misinformation and promoting accurate health information within the community

Chapters:

• 0:05 Intro & Sponsor
• 1:23 Aaron's Background & Group Origin
• 5:30 Power of Community
• 8:08 Support in Community
• 11:44 Getting Involved in IBD Communities
• 15:16 Before Sharing Online
• 16:15 Motivation & Authenticity
• 19:10 Combating Misinformation
• 25:20 Boundaries & Balance
• 31:52 Mental Health & Selective Sharing
• 34:55 Handling Criticism & Mistakes
• 38:11 Referring Out & Collaboration
• 39:18 Responding to Criticism
• 40:13 Aaron's Socials & Closing
• 41:53 Outro & Credits

Find Aaron Blocker at:

• Facebook: @SupportIBD
• YouTube: @aaronblocker
• Instagram: @AaronBlocker_
• Web: https://www.aaronblocker.com

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We get back to the basics of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including the differences between Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and how IBD is different than irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBDologist Dr Katie Dunleavy explains common symptoms, the diagnostic process, and treatment options, focusing on patient advocacy, regular screenings, and open communication with physicians and other healthcare providers. Also included is the importance of diet, stress management, second opinions, and multidisciplinary care in managing IBD. If you or your loved one lives with IBD, you will learn something new, and if there's someone in your life who could use help in understanding IBD, this is the episode to share with them. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD183 Topics discussed on this episode:

• Definition and overview of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Differences between IBD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Types of IBD: Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, indeterminate colitis, and microscopic colitis
• Common symptoms associated with IBD
• Diagnostic processes and tests for IBD
• Treatment options and the importance of personalized care
• Role of diet and lifestyle changes in managing IBD
• Importance of mental health and stress management in IBD care
• Ongoing monitoring and screening for colorectal cancer in IBD patients
• Advocacy for patient-centered care and the need for multidisciplinary approaches in IBD management

More information on the topics discussed:

• Understanding Toxic Megacolon: https://www.verywellhealth.com/toxic-megacolon-1943111
• How Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Is Diagnosed: https://www.verywellhealth.com/ibd-diagnosis-1942637
• IBD vs. IBS: Understanding the Differences: https://www.verywellhealth.com/ibd-vs-ibs-11714235
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Medications & Treatment: https://www.verywellhealth.com/comparing-biologic-medications-for-ibd-4116127
• Understanding Indeterminate Colitis: https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-indeterminate-colitis-4142657
• Types of Colitis: Everything You Should Know: https://www.verywellhealth.com/types-of-colitis-5198817

Find Katie Dunleavy, MB, BCh, BAO at:

• Web: Massachusetts General Hospital
• Twitter/X: @dunleavy_katie
• Research Gate: Katie Dunleavy, MB, BCh, BAO

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD
• Bluesky: @aboutibd.bsky.social

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio