Mogil's Mobcast-A Scleroderma Chat

Monika Hilton was living her dream as the “cake lady” when her hands started to change and she was diagnosed with systemic scleroderma. That did not stop her.  She turned something traumatic into the Mo Experience. Her story is uplifting . 

themoexperience.org

Today’s guest has an inspiring journey to share with you. At 13 Natasha Trehan was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. She took this diagnosis and did some incredible things. Stick around to hear how she turned that challenge into something truly incredible.

Today’s guest, Dr. Lee Shapiro, is a returning guest who has now retired from clinical practice in rheumatology. He’s now mentoring students on research projects. Also with us is Avni Sanghvi, a third-year student at Albany Medical School, who’s doing research under Dr. Shapiro’s guidance. Today, you’ll learn about her research and the other projects Dr. Shapiro is involved in. As a scleroderma patient myself, I’m especially excited to dig into what’s happening in the research world to help with this condition. I think you’ll find this conversation really interesting.

Today’s guest is Dr. Natalie Trehan, assistant professor at the Medical University of South Carolina and a clinician educator specializing in oral medicine, orofacial pain, and injectable therapies. As a scleroderma patient myself, I know how tough it is to find a dentist who actually understands our needs. Dr. Trehan shares practical tips that will help so many warriors, including one smart strategy for finding the right dentist.

Today’s guest is Dr. Kristofer Andréasson. It was a real honor to talk with a rheumatologist from another country and learn how his medical system works. We dove into his research, which was absolutely fascinating. My particular interest lies in the gut’s role in rheumatic disease, and I learned a ton and I know you will too.

Welcome to episode 124 of Mogil’s Mobcast. Today’s guest is Dr. Anthony Esposito. Dr. Esposito is a pulmonologist and the co-director of the Northwestern Scleroderma Program. Interstitial lung disease is the leading cause of death in scleroderma patients, and one of the first manifestations many will develop. In fact, four out of five scleroderma patients will show it on their very first CT scan. Dr. Esposito shares important information we all need to hear.”

Today’s guest is another incredible scleroderma warrior, Evamarie Cole. Eva was diagnosed 20 years ago, and like many people living with scleroderma, she was initially diagnosed with lupus. When Eva later questioned that diagnosis, she turned to her physician for guidance, only to be dismissed and told he knew better. What ultimately helped save Eva was the strength of her scleroderma community, the support she found in patient groups, and her passion for advocacy. Her story is one of resilience, empowerment, and perseverance — and I know you’re going to love hearing it.

Today’s guest is Dr. Kimti Kumar, a rheumatologist living in New Zealand and completing her PHD at the University of Adelaide. Dr. Kumar’s research caught my attention for its focus on non-drug strategies to address the significant challenges faced by scleroderma patients with Raynaud’s. As many of you know, I’m always drawn to more holistic approaches to health, and I think you’ll find this conversation very insightful. 

Today’s guest is Sundar Balasubramanian  Sundar is internationally recognized for his pioneering research on how yogic breathing and chanting practices can enhance overall well-being. His work highlights a powerful connection: good health begins with proper circulation—and that starts with effective breathing. Sundar also brings a fascinating personal and professional background, which made this conversation especially engaging. Be sure to stay until the end of the episode, where he’ll guide us through some of his breathing techniques so you can experience the benefits for yourself.

I’m excited to welcome back Dr. Elizabeth Volkmann. Dr. Volkmann takes a truly holistic approach to care, focusing on the whole person rather than just the disease. She also has a wonderful new Instagram page filled with helpful, informative content that you won’t want to miss. As always, it was an absolute delight talking with her.