Riley details her complex and often delayed diagnostic journey, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, and which treatments have worked best for her.  She also shares how she navigates daily life while living almost exclusively at home due to limited mobility and energy.

Cheryl and Riley also discuss the adaptations and strategies Riley uses to manage her conditions and maintain her quality of life, including some special tips for RV living. Riley offers insights into finding peace in the moment, the importance of advocacy, and the reality of thriving in survival mode.  

Riley challenges the traditional idea of what it means to thrive, redefining it as being present for micro-moments of connection, joy, or peace . Her story highlights both the physical toll of chronic illness and the emotional strength required to navigate a complex and often dismissive healthcare system.

Episode at a glance:

• Riley's Diagnosis Journey:  Riley shares her journey with multiple autoimmune conditions, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
• Treatment Trials and Tribulations: Riley opens up about experiences of medical gaslighting and the emotional toll of being dismissed by providers.
• The Importance of Advocacy and Self-Care: Riley and Cheryl discuss the power of symptom tracking as a tool for validation and self-advocacy in healthcare.
• Daily Life Adaptations when you Don’t Leave Home Often: Riley shares her daily tools and strategies that work for her and her family.
• Finding Micro-Moments of Joy and Redefining Thriving: Riley redefines what it means to thrive—finding value in micro-moments of connection, joy, or stillness.

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.

Episode Sponsors

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!