A new RA diagnosis can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of emotions and uncertainty. In this episode, I share my best advice for navigating this new reality—offering practical tips on mindset, building a strong support system, and avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation.

You'll also hear from fellow RA patients who share their personal insights and heartfelt encouragement, helping you approach your diagnosis with renewed hope—and, if you’re lucky, some evidence-based optimism.

Drawing from my 20+ years of living with RA and my expertise as an occupational therapist, I revisit key lessons from Episode 4 (originally released in 2020) and add fresh reflections from my last five years of running patient support groups and educational programs.

Tune in for a thoughtful, compassionate conversation designed to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website!

• Coping with the Initial Shock – Practical tips to help you process the emotions that come with a new diagnosis and adjust to this new chapter of your life.
• Educating Yourself Without Overwhelm – Learn how to find reliable information about RA without falling into endless internet rabbit holes or misinformation traps.
• Building a Strong Support System – How to connect with the right people—both in real life and online—so you feel supported, understood, and less alone.
• Working with Your Medical Team – Strategies for communicating effectively with your doctors and advocating for the care you deserve.
• Finding the Right Treatment Path – A guide to exploring treatment options with confidence, so you can make informed decisions that fit your needs.
• Managing Stress & Protecting Your Mental Health – Simple, effective ways to care for your mind and body while adjusting to life with RA.
• A Message of Hope & Encouragement – You're not alone in this. Hear words of support and reassurance to help you move forward with confidence.

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 - you don’t have to figure it all out on your own, I’m here to guide and support you!

Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website!

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Chrissy recounts the challenges she faced seeking medical care for persistent swelling and joint pain. Despite visiting multiple doctors, she was repeatedly told she “wasn’t sick” before ultimately receiving her RA diagnosis. She reflects on the mix of emotions she felt—relief at finally having a treatment plan and the hope it brought, alongside fears about the long term implications of a progressive disease like RA.

Chrissy also dives into the importance of mindset. She explains how maintaining a positive outlook helps her navigate life with RA, while being careful to steer clear of the pitfalls of “toxic positivity.”

Her diagnosis, while life-changing, also brought unexpected opportunities. Chrissy discusses how it inspired her advocacy and fundraising efforts, including an incredible bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles to support the Arthritis Foundation.

This heartfelt conversation between Cheryl and Chrissy is a reminder that, even with a chronic illness diagnosis, it’s possible to thrive and find purpose in new and meaningful ways.

• Chrissy’s Journey to Diagnosis: From frustrating delays to finally being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• Emotional Ups and Downs: The relief of finding a treatment plan and the challenges of accepting life with a chronic illness.
• Mindset Matters: Balancing positivity while avoiding the pitfalls of "toxic positivity."
• Advocacy in Action: How Chrissy turned her diagnosis into a mission, including fundraising for the Arthritis Foundation.
• Inspiring Adventures: Chrissy’s empowering bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles to support RA awareness.
• Finding Purpose and Adapting: Cheryl and Chrissy discuss thriving, adapting and finding purpose after an RA diagnosis.

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! 

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Gabi highlights the accommodations that have been instrumental during her college experience, including adaptive tools and flexible scheduling. She shares how other young people with chronic illness can advocate for the accommodations they need to succeed in school.

Cheryl and Gabi also discuss the vital role of peer support groups, such as Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE program, and emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and maintaining a positive outlook. 

For those newly diagnosed, Gabi offers invaluable advice: seek reputable resources, stay informed, and embrace the mindset that thriving with a chronic illness requires adapting, planning, and finding joy amidst challenges. This inspiring conversation celebrates resilience, community, and the power of living well with a chronic illness.

• Navigating Life with Spondyloarthritis and palatal tremor: Gabi shares her personal journey and how she manages the challenges of living with inflammatory arthritis. She also shares what it was like to try different medications and switch due to side effects.
• Key Tips and Tools for School and Work: Cheryl and Gabi discuss accommodations available through organizations like the Arthritis Foundation and adaptive tools and strategies for daily life.
• The Power of Self-Advocacy: Gabi highlights the importance of advocating for yourself in medical and personal settings.
• Creating a Supportive Environment: Gabi shares about finding community and encouragement through groups like Rheum to THRIVE and about the importance of building a network of understanding family, friends, and peers..
• Advice for the Newly Diagnosed: Lean on trustworthy resources, Stay informed and learn to adapt, and Focus on maintaining joy and living life fully despite the diagnosis.

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! 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stephanie and Cheryl also reflect on the “roller coaster of acceptance,” or their journeys towards self compassion and acceptance in the face of fluctuating, unpredictable conditions.  They also delve into the challenges of living with cognitive dysfunction or “brain fog” and Stephanie shares how she copes with this while serving as an adjunct professor.

Stephanie also shares resources that have helped her in her chronic illness journey, including her work with Atlas Assistance Dogs and her impactful writing on disability identity.  Together, Cheryl and Stephanie show how living with chronic conditions can foster resilience, deepen self-awareness, and lead to a fulfilling life despite challenges.

Trigger warning: miscarriage

• Personal chronic illness Journeys: Stephanie shares her experiences of living with rheumatoid arthritis and the emotional challenges of a new diagnosis after surviving cancer and endometriosis.
• Developing resilience and adapting to the ebb and flow of symptoms.
• Building Community: The value of connecting with others who understand and the role of a support system in managing arthritis.
• Practical Advice: Learn how adapting and being less rigid can improve quality of life despite chronic illness.
• Coping with difficult symptoms like brain fog
• Service animals: Stephanie shares the impact of animal assisted therapy and tips for caring for a dog when you have rheumatoid arthritis.

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! 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 They also discuss the importance of support and community, and Amber shares her experience in Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE program. Cheryl and Amber emphasize the importance of adaptability, finding joy in everyday activities like cooking and cheering for their favorite sports teams, and embracing flexibility in the face of unpredictability. 

• Personal Stories of Resilience: Amber shares her journey of managing psoriatic arthritis while balancing work, friendships, and her love for cooking and sports.
• The Power of Adaptability: Embracing flexibility and pivoting when necessary is key to maintaining a fulfilling life despite chronic illness challenges.
• Therapeutic Insights: Cheryl and Amber discuss the importance of therapy, setting boundaries, and giving up some control to better manage health and wellness.
• Support Networks: Amber highlights resources like her counseling practice, the Welcome Project PA, and a peer support group for those living with chronic illness.
• Lighthearted Moments: Fun anecdotes about Amber's Taylor Swift-themed party, her love for the Eagles, and her relatable Instagram posts featuring her dog and food.
• Encouragement for Listeners: Cheryl and Amber leave listeners with hope, showing how living a good life with arthritis is possible by focusing on joy, adaptability, and meaningful connections.

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! 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

She discusses how she’s learned to adapt to life’s changes, uncover tools to improve her quality of life, and embrace creativity as a way to thrive. For instance, she shares how her power wheelchair allows her to explore her surroundings while conserving energy, and how her Spoonie Coloring Book brings joy and meaning to her daily life through art.

Carrie and Cheryl also dive into topics like self-acceptance, disability representation in media, and the role storytelling plays in processing challenges. With humor and vulnerability, they reflect on what it means to live a fulfilling life despite chronic illness, offering encouragement and inspiration for anyone newly diagnosed.

This episode is a heartfelt reminder that, while the journey may not go as planned, it can still be meaningful and empowering.

• Carrie's Diagnosis and Treatment Journey
• The Power of Acceptance: Balancing grief for what’s lost with hope for what’s possible and finding empowerment in small, daily actions that improve quality of life.
• Life on Wheels: Carrie shares how her power wheelchair helps her conserve energy and enables her to explore her environment in ways she wouldn’t if she had to walk. 
• The Importance of Art and Creativity: Living with rheumatic disease and adapting to life's changes and embracing creativity, such as publishing a coloring book for spoonies, as a means to thrive.
• Books, Media, and Disability Representation: Discussion of favorite authors, including Jenny Lawson and Lisa See, and their openness about health challenges; highlighting the importance of disability representation in books, movies, and other media.
• Encouragement for Thriving with Arthritis: "Keep on going" mindset and recognizing the value of being present and finding meaning in the life you have.

Medical disclaimer: 

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! 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl shares how the program has evolved based on participant feedback, offering flexible learning options including self-paced options for those who would like to learn the self management tools without the support group. Cheryl and Lauren also discuss the ways in which the program has offered essential education, community and realistic hope for people who previously felt lost and overwhelmed. They also share the support group schedule for 2025 and beyond!

• Introduction to the "Rheum to THRIVE" program: Cheryl shares the evolution and impact of her education and support program, designed for individuals with rheumatic disease.
• Iterative improvements: Cheryl discusses how the program has evolved over time based on participant feedback, adding more resources like PDFs and flexible learning options.
• Support group details: The program follows a consistent schedule, with 13 meetings each from February-June and September-January, and plans to expand with additional facilitators.
• Testimonials and feedback: Cheryl and Lauren discuss common positive feedback from people who’ve taken the course and/or joined the support groups.
• How to get involved: Cheryl explains how to join the support group or access the self-paced course, highlighting options for affordability.
• Program fit: Cheryl clarifies who the program is ideal for and who it might not be suitable for, focusing on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Cheryl’s guest role: Normally the interviewer, Cheryl steps out of her usual role as the host to be interviewed by Lauren, adding a twist of fun to the episode.

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! 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl and Eileen stress the value of self-advocacy, working with a multidisciplinary team, and accessing reliable resources to navigate life with confidence and care.

• Mental Health and Support Groups: Cheryl and Eileen explore the transformative power of support groups, not only for attendees but also for those facilitating them. They discuss how mental health practices, like therapy and mindfulness, can supplement traditional care and provide emotional resilience.
• The Overlooked Impact of Sleep: Sleep disturbances, often dismissed as a symptom of rheumatic diseases, are addressed with actionable advice, including the need for sleep assessments to diagnose conditions like sleep apnea.
•  Nutrition’s Role in Managing Symptoms: Nutrition is examined as a key player in managing fatigue and overall well-being. Cheryl and Eileen discuss the benefits of a Mediterranean-style diet, the pitfalls of food shaming and misinformation, and how a positive, individualized approach to diet can support health without fostering food fear

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!

See the full episode show notes including a transcript and video on the episode page here.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carrie shares how she  managed being a mom to two young kids and returned to her passion of running after undergoing two hip replacement surgeries. Her story emphasizes the importance of getting second opinions, persevering through setbacks, listening to her body and asking for help.

Cheryl and Carrie discuss the challenges she faced and the mindset shifts that helped her return to running, including the importance of “staying in the mile you’re in” and remembering that “the comeback is bigger than the setback.” This episode serves as important representation for those looking for stories of younger or middle aged people returning to their passions after joint replacement surgery.

• Carrie's Remarkable Journey: Surviving hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and  two hip replacements to become a marathon runner.  
• Carrie’s Journey from seeking a “miracle cure” to accepting the need for surgery
• The importance of advocacy and second opinions: While most doctors said she could never run again, Carrier found one doctor who believed she could return to her passion post hip replacement surgery. Her surgeon had done over 6,000 surgeries for hip replacement, with only 3 patients ever returning to half marathons. She and her doctor worked together with the current (very small) set of data to decide what was best for her.
• The Complexity of Parenting Small Kids while in Pain: Carrie shares the physical and emotional hurdles she faced post-surgery, including the difficulty of explaining her pain and limitations with small children. How do you balance the goal of being honest without giving your children false hope?
• How Carrie recovered from Surgery: the power goal-setting, listening to her body, and pacing in Carrie’s recovery.
• Community Support: Cheryl and Carrie discuss how a strong support system helped Carrie stay motivated and focused.  
• Mindset Matters: How Carrie developed resilience and adaptability in the face of limitations.  
• Takeaway Message: Embrace challenges and pursue passions despite obstacles!  

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! 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Both Jed and Cheryl emphasize the importance of finding a supportive community and adjusting personal goals, as chronic illness often reshapes life plans. Cheryl also highlights the power of acceptance and resilience, and together they underscore the value of living fully within one’s limitations, embracing good days, and finding joy in achievable dreams.

• Chronic Illness Challenges: Jed shares his experiences living with ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory condition that impacts daily routines and long-term goals.
• Balancing Work and Health: Jed and Cheryl discuss the practical tools and strategies he uses to manage pain and fatigue while teaching, including compression gloves, heating pads, and a massage recliner.
• Finding Community Support: Jed and Cheryl discuss the importance of connecting with others who understand the chronic illness experience, providing both emotional support and practical advice.
• Redefining Goals and Expectations: Cheryl discusses how chronic illness reshapes personal and professional goals, encouraging resilience and adaptability.
• Acceptance and Joy in Small Wins: Both Jed and Cheryl emphasize embracing good days and celebrating small achievements, focusing on a fulfilling life within the boundaries of 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!