Arthritis Life

Cheryl and Gittel explore the importance of being mindful with our social media use. While they highlight the risks of falling into negative patterns that can lead to isolation, they also emphasize social media’s powerful potential for connection and support among those living with chronic illness.

Gittel shares how participating in online support communities like Rheum to THRIVE has strengthened her self-management and coping strategies. Together, Cheryl and Gittel stress the importance of setting intentional goals for social media use, fostering connection, protecting mental health, and ultimately avoiding the trap of isolation.

• Milestone guest return: Gittel joins the podcast for her fifth appearance and reflections on her journey with Crohn’s disease and ankylosing spondylitis.
• Rheum To Thrive: Gittel reflects on how her relationship with the Rheum to Thrive program has grown over time.
• Mindful social media use: Comparing patterns of use, misuse, and abuse to drug use.
• The double-edged sword of social media: Exploring both its risks (isolation, negative cycles) and benefits (connection, support).
• Personal impact: Gittel’s story of how online support communities improved her coping and self-management.
• Practical takeaways: Setting intentional goals for social media to foster connection, protect mental health, and avoid isolation.

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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Dr. Liew  shares her personal journey to becoming a rheumatologist inspired by a friend's diagnosis. She then discusses the condition in detail, addressing common misconceptions such as it being exclusive to white men and always showing up on imaging. 

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the challenges of diagnosing this condition, social determinants affecting diagnosis, and reliable resources for further information. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the labyrinth of rheumatic diseases, providing hope and knowledge to help you thrive.

• 00:00 Introduction to Rheumer Has It Podcast
• 00:26 Meet Dr. Jean Liew: Expert on Axial Spondyloarthritis
• 00:40 Understanding Axial Spondyloarthritis
• 01:41 Dr. Liew's Journey into Rheumatology
• 04:16 Busting Myths: Axial Spondyloarthritis and Demographics (it’s not just men!)
• 06:50 Challenges in Diagnosing Axial Spondyloarthritis
• 10:27 The Role of HLAB 27 in Axial Spondyloarthritis
• 12:26 Imaging and Axial Spondyloarthritis
• 14:38 Final Thoughts and Resources

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! 

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

Cheryl and Melissa discuss her experiences in the healthcare system, driven by frustration to become a self-advocate. This led Melissa to write the book Invisible: a Nurse Turned Patient's Resource to Living Well with Autoimmune Disease, aiming to provide validation and resources for others facing similar struggles. 

Cheryl and Melissa also touch on the challenges of advocating for oneself, misconceptions in the medical field, the impact of invisible illnesses, and the importance of finding purpose and joy while living with chronic conditions.

• Melissa’s Journey: Cheryl and Melissa discuss Melissa’s long diagnosis journey.
• Navigating the Healthcare System: Melissa shares what it was like to navigate the healthcare system as a nurse turned patient.
• Self-Advocacy: Cheryl and Melissa discuss the importance of self advocacy. 
• Melissa’s Book: Melissa shares her journey of writing her new book, Invisible: a Nurse Turned Patient's Resource to Living Well with Autoimmune Disease.

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.

Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, they dispel common myths such as the notion that diet alone can treat RA, and also highlight the evidence for some nutrition approaches like the Mediterranean diet as a reliable starting point. 

The episode underscores the importance of integrating diet and other lifestyle approaches alongside medications for optimal well-being. Whether you're newly diagnosed or navigating your journey, this episode offers clarity on an often confusing topic.

• Myth #1: Diet is all you need to treat / cure RA
• Myth #2: Dietary interventions are more effective and safe than medications
• Myth #3: It’s an either or - -you have to do diet OR medications

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! 

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

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!

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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! 

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

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! 

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

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! 

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

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! 

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

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! 

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