In this honest and inspiring episode, Cheryl and Chelsea talk about the emotional toll of chronic illness, the power of having a solid support system, and how Chelsea went from feeling isolated to becoming a voice for others. Chelsea opens up about how sharing her story online, especially as a Hispanic woman, helped her find connection, purpose, and strength.

If you’re newly diagnosed and feeling overwhelmed, Chelsea’s story is the reminder you need: you’re not alone, and your voice matters. Tune in for talk on therapy, faith, coping tools, and how advocacy can become part of your healing.

• Chelsea’s Diagnosis Journey: Chelsea shares her experience being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, scleritis, and PCOS all in her early 20s.
• Emotional Rollercoaster: The mental toll of chronic illness and how it impacted Chelsea’s daily life.
• The Power of Support: Why having a strong support system made all the difference in Chelsea’s chronic illness journey.
• From Isolation to Advocacy: How sharing her journey online helped Chelsea find connection and purpose—especially as a Hispanic woman navigating the healthcare system.
• Your Voice Matters: Encouragement for those newly diagnosed—you are not alone, and your story is powerful.
• Coping Tools: Therapy, faith, and mindset shifts that helped Chelsea regain control.
• Advocacy as Healing: How turning her pain into purpose became part of Chelsea’s recovery.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE,

 an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. 

See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!

On this episode, Cheryl & Eileen talk with sleep expert and researcher D. Deborah Da Costa about evidence based interventions to improve sleep in people with rheumatic conditions. Dr. Da Costa explores how sleep challenges are deeply entangled with social and emotional wellbeing as well as pain, fatigue and cognition for those living with rheumatoid arthritis and related conditions. 

She also overviews Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI), which is the the gold standard for treating sleep disturbances. Whether it’s resisting social pressure to stay up late or coping with fatigue while caregiving, this episode explores sleep-related struggles and provides specific tips for improving sleep.

• Sleep Is a Critical Yet Underrecognized Component of Arthritis Care: Despite its profound impact, sleep is often neglected in both patient and provider conversations. Poor sleep can worsen arthritis symptoms such as pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and cognitive dysfunction—even when the disease is otherwise well-managed.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) Is a Promising Non-Pharmacological Treatment: CBTI is considered the gold standard for treating insomnia without medication. It helps patients reframe negative beliefs about sleep and adopt healthier sleep behaviors, such as limiting screen time in bed and creating a relaxing pre-sleep routine. Internet-based CBTI programs tailored for arthritis patients are currently being piloted.
• Sleep Challenges Are Deeply Intertwined with Social and Emotional Wellbeing: The podcast highlights how sleep difficulties affect social life, relationships, and self-advocacy. From navigating social pressure to stay up late to managing fatigue while caregiving, the conversation emphasizes the need for greater awareness and support around sleep in the context of chronic illness.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

She and Cheryl also discuss the complexities of symptom tracking and diagnosis, challenges of treatment, and the importance of self-advocacy and support groups.

 Estela also highlights her nonprofit organization, Looms for Lupus, which she co-founded with her sisters to provide advocacy, support, and educational resources for those affected by lupus and overlapping conditions. 

The conversation covers personal coping strategies, the significance of community, and the multifaceted nature of living with chronic illness.

• Estela's Advocacy Journey: Estela's extensive experience in the healthcare industry, working as a medical assistant from a young age, and how her sister’s lupus diagnosis in 2009 propelled her into the world of autoimmune advocacy.
• Estela’s Diagnosis Journey: Estela shares her long road to a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, touching on the difficulties of being seronegative and the importance of tracking and communicating symptoms effectively to healthcare providers.
• Treatment Challenges: The conversation covers Estela's experience with various treatments, including her struggles with medications, weight gain, hair loss, and how she found resilience through these challenges.
• Importance of Self-Advocacy: Advice and tips on the necessity of advocating for oneself within the medical system, and the impact it can have on receiving timely and accurate diagnoses.
• Looms for Lupus: An in-depth look at the foundation Estela co-founded with her sister. They discuss the support groups, educational symposiums, and bilingual resources offered by Looms for Lupus, dedicated to supporting those with lupus, fibromyalgia, mental health challenges, and their caregivers.
• Personal Coping Strategies: Estela highlights the strategies she employs to manage her health, such as mindfulness, spending time with family, painting, and journaling. She also emphasizes the importance of asking for help and giving oneself grace.
• Inspirational Advice: Estela's key message to listeners: never give in, never give up, never let go, and just keep fighting. She also underscores the necessity of knitting a community of hope and the importance of laughter and friendship.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

Eileen and Cheryl break down six types of unsolicited advice, including lifestyle interventions, toxic positivity, unqualified medical advice, predatory marketing, wild suggestions, and even well-meaning but unsolicited solid advice. 

They share their personal experiences and offer practical strategies for responding to these unsolicited suggestions, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based treatments and individualized care. The episode aims to empower listeners to assert their boundaries and make informed decisions about their health.

• Introduction to Rheumer Has It
• The Impact of Unsolicited Advice
• Types of Unsolicited Advice
• Responding to Unsolicited Advice
• Conclusion and Takeaways

Medical disclaimer: 

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

From navigating a complicated healthcare system to managing symptoms in a remote location, Dawn opens up about the real challenges she’s faced, and the tools that help her cope.

Together, Dawn and Cheryl explore what it takes to live well with arthritis, from finding the right medications and building an exercise routine, to advocating for yourself and embracing self-care. Dawn also reflects on the power of mindset, gratitude, and simplifying life to focus on what truly matters.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your diagnosis or unsure where to start, this conversation is full of down-to-earth wisdom, encouragement, and hope.

• Dawn’s Journey: Dawn shares her psoriatic arthritis diagnosis story. 
• Life in Alaska: Dawn and Cheryl discuss the unique challenges of managing healthcare in Alaska. 
• The Power of Exercise and Movement: Dawn shares how movement plays an important role in managing her symptoms. 
• Mental Strength and Resilience: Dawn and Cheryl discuss tools and strategies for mental strength and resilience. 
• Working in the Medical Field with Chronic Illness: Dawn shares her background in the medical field and how it shaped her approach to chronic illness.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

The discussion addresses concerns about medication side effects, the importance of treating rheumatic diseases early, and the false stigma that using advanced treatments indicates more severe disease or personal failure. 

Dr. Hazelwood emphasizes the importance of balancing risks and benefits and provides insights into how modern treatments can significantly improve quality of life. The episode emphasizes the safety and necessity of these medications and highlights the benefits of starting treatment early to prevent long-term complications. 

This episode is particularly valuable for anyone newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who is navigating the complexities and concerns surrounding medication.

• Meet Rheumatologist & Researcher Dr. Glenn Hazelwood:
• Busting Myths About Medications
• Challenging Stigmas Around Advanced Treatments
• Addressing Misconceptions About Medication Use

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl Crow, OT created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

Seth discusses the challenges and lessons learned from his condition, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and humor as coping mechanisms. He also reflects on the 25-year journey of Creaky Joints, which began as a simple idea to connect arthritis sufferers and has grown into a significant patient advocacy and support organization.

Cheryl and Seth also discuss the importance of patient voices in research and healthcare policy, the role of advocacy in improving healthcare systems, and the power of community and proper information. This episode highlights the power of advocacy, sharing our stories and remembering you are not alone in your arthritis journey!

• Seth’s Diagnosis Journey: Seth shares his early diagnosis at age 13 with Spondyloarthropathy and how it shaped his perspective.
• Creaky Joints and Global Healthy Living Foundation Origins: How a simple idea to connect arthritis patients evolved into a major advocacy and support organization over 25 years.
• Coping Strategies: Cheryl and Seth bond over the value of self-advocacy, humor, and mindset in managing chronic illness.
• Patient Empowerment and Advocacy: Why patient voices matter in research, healthcare systems, and policy-making.
• The Power of Community: Cheryl and Seth discuss how connection and reliable information support well-being.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE,

 an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. 

See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!

Cristina and Cheryl reflect on how RA has shaped their lives, and the deep sense of purpose they’ve found in supporting others on a similar path. They highlight the power of self-advocacy, the comfort of community, and the resilience it takes to live well with RA.

 If you’re feeling overwhelmed or alone in your diagnosis, this honest and empowering conversation will remind you: you’re not in this alone—and your voice matters.

• Christina’s Journey with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early symptoms and the relief of finally getting a diagnosis, coping with depression, chronic pain, and postpartum flare-ups,  and navigating treatment options and finding the right doctor
• The Power of Self-Advocacy and Community: How this helped Cristina feel more empowered and supported while managing chronic illness
• Volunteer Work and Advocacy: How Cristina’s journey with RA has led to her work with the Arthritis Foundation
• Turning pain into purpose: How RA has led both Cheryl and Cristina to have a passion for helping others and raising awareness

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

Cheryl, Marisa, Alice, Gittel, Meg and Annette reflect on the profound impact of community, the invaluable educational components, and the collective wisdom that has helped them cope and thrive. 

The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, shared humor, and the supportive environment of the Rheum to THRIVE group, which empowers members to navigate their health challenges and advocate for themselves. 

• Celebrating 5 Years of Thrive: Cheryl reflects on the origins of the Rheum to THRIVE program and members share how they found the group and what drew them in.
• Support Group as Lifeline: Members describe Rheum to THRIVE as a uniquely supportive and safe space that offers emotional validation, practical advice, and deep connection.
• Power of Peer Support & Representation: Cheryl and Rheum to Thrive members share how hearing others share similar stories helps members feel less alone and seeing others thrive with chronic illness is empowering and inspiring.
• Tools for Thriving: Members reference helpful resources like the THRIVE Framework, webinars, and guest speakers.
• The Joy of Community & Shared Identity: Cheryl and the Rheum to Thrive members discuss how inside jokes, celebrations, and shared experiences strengthen group bonds.
• Lasting Impact of the Program: The Rheum to Thrive members tell Cheryl that they pursued careers in counseling or advocacy inspired by their journey and that Rheum to Thrive supports lifelong learning and personal growth. They also reflect on how the group has helped members through isolation and uncertainty.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE,an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. 

See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!

They clarify the differences between these terms and provide examples, such as the myth that only elderly people get arthritis, the stigma that people with arthritis are lazy, and the misconception that arthritis is merely mild joint pain. 

Eileen and Cheryl also emphasize the importance of education and self-advocacy and share personal experiences to illustrate how these misunderstandings can affect mental health. They also highlight resources for further learning and empowerment so you can help bust these myths and bring awareness to the true impact of rheumatic diseases. 

• Defining Myths, Stigmas, and Misconceptions: Cheryl and Eileen define the myths, stigmas, and misconceptions related to rheumatic diseases.
• Personal Experiences with Misconceptions: Cheryl and Eileen delve into their personal experiences with misconceptions of rheumatic diseases. 
• Addressing Stigmas: Cheryl and Eileen address stigmas often associated with rheumatic diseases.
• Common Myths About Rheumatic Diseases: Cheryl and Eileen discuss the common myths about rheumatic diseases.
• Impact on Mental Health: Cheryl and Eileen discuss how this topic affects mental health.
• Final Thoughts and Resources: Cheryl and Eileen highlight resources to help bust myths and bring awareness to rheumatic diseases.

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!