February is about love, but living with chronic illness can change the way we express and experience it. In this special episode, we discuss how to nurture intimacy, navigate tough conversations, and celebrate love in meaningful ways when chronic illness is part of the story. Whether you’re in a relationship or single, there’s something here for everyone.

Processing the Loss of Past Abilities and Future Expectations

Grief isn’t just about losing a loved one—it can also be about losing parts of yourself and the life you imagined. In this episode, we dive into the emotional journey of living with chronic illness, from mourning past abilities to adapting to a new normal. We explore how to process this ongoing grief, embrace self-compassion, and find joy in the present while navigating the complexities of loss and hope.

Welcome to the first full episode of Love Chronically! In this debut, we dive into what inspired the podcast and explore the complexities of love, relationships, and life when chronic illness is part of the story. From navigating stigmas like “discrimidating” to the emotional and physical challenges that chronic illness can bring to partnerships, we discuss how these experiences shape connection and resilience. Whether you’re living with a chronic condition, supporting a loved one, or just curious about the intersection of love and chronic illness, this episode offers insights, data, and personal reflections to start the conversation. Join us as we set the stage for honest, supportive dialogue about living and loving chronically.

In this very first "look" at Love Chronically, we invite you into our story—how a shared experience with chronic illness inspired us to create a space for honest conversations about life, love, and everything in between. Learn how this podcast came to life, the challenges and joys that shaped it, and what you can expect as we embark on this journey together. Whether you live with chronic illness, love someone who does, or simply want to explore the intersections of resilience and connection, this is the place for you.