In this episode, Kate shares her journey getting diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis while working as a chef in London. She opens up about her post-diagnosis emotional roller coaster and shares how joining Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE online support and education program helped her feel more confident, empowered and supported.

 She also details other programs that helped her including a mindfulness course and CBT therapy.  The episode ends with Kate sharing what it means to her to live a “good life” with rheumatic disease.

This conversation was first recorded and released as episode 79 in 2022. 

Episode at a glance:

• Kate’s psoriatic arthritis Diagnosis journey: being unable to hold a fork; MRI of her hands showed erosions and inflammatory arthritis
• Emotional Aftermath of Kate’s diagnosis
• Finding community & support: after feeling isolated and not being able to find good answers on her own, Kate joined Rheum to THRIVE and felt more comforted, empowered and supported 
• Two other things that helped kate: Mindfulness course and CBT therapy
• How Kate learned to advocate for her needs with her rheumatologists
• Kate’s favorite life hacks for being a chef with arthritis, including a discussion about what dietary interventions have helped her 

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! 

For full episode show notes including a transcript:

Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website.