My Spoonie Sisters

Are you ready to transform how you navigate the daily hurdles of arthritis? Join me, Gracefully Jen, for practical advice that promises to enhance your daily living with arthritis. Overcoming the challenges of chronic illness is no small feat, but with our latest episode, you'll learn five key strategies to rework your routine for the better. We focus on making each day not just bearable but more fulfilling—celebrating the little triumphs and ensuring your well-being never takes a back seat.

From creating an arthritis-friendly living space to mastering the art of asking for help, our heart-to-heart chat is packed with insights that cater specifically to the Spoonie Sisterhood. As I wrap up Arthritis Awareness Month, I share how to listen to your body's needs and adapt accordingly, ensuring that you stay empowered and in control of your health journey. With no guests, just us, this episode is an intimate guide to embracing self-care and maintaining a positive mindset amidst the unpredictability of arthritis. Tune in and let's navigate the complexities of chronic illness with courage, support, and a spoonful of Grace!

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Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

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Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

Navigating life with an autoimmune condition can feel like a solo journey, but it doesn't have to be. I had the pleasure of bringing in Annie, my health and wellness coach, who's an expert in turning living with autoimmune diseases into thriving despite them. Together, we unpack the art of crafting wellness plans that are as unique as your fingerprint, offering hope and actionable advice for anyone aiming to steer their health in a positive direction. Through our candid conversation, I open up about my own triumphs—no matter how small they may seem—they're milestones worth celebrating.

Community can be your lifeline when dealing with the silent battles of autoimmune conditions. Annie and I shed light on the solace found in support groups and the connections made in the digital space that often act as a beacon of understanding in the face of isolation. We also delve into how a consistent mindfulness practice can not only ease the physical pain associated with autoimmune diseases but also elevate your overall quality of life. I share some personal anecdotes on finding joy in these practices, emphasizing the beauty in selecting activities that resonate with you on a deeper level.

Habit-building can feel like an uphill battle, yet it's the cornerstone of lasting wellness. In this heart-to-heart with Annie, we explore the nuances of setting attainable goals and the transformative potential of regular check-ins for those on their autoimmune journey. From spotlighting success stories to discussing the unique hurdles women face, particularly during perimenopause, this episode is a tapestry of experiences woven together to illustrate the profound impact of consistent, personalized care. Join us as we affirm that, regardless of the ebbs and flows of life with an autoimmune condition, there's strength in the steadfast pursuit of health.

Annie is a yoga teacher, meditation guide, and wellness coach certified by the Mayo Clinic of Rochester, MN, and Yoga Center of Minneapolis. She holds an M.B.A. and is a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC).

Annie’s passions extend beyond yoga to encompass a whole body, whole mind approach to wellness. This passion drove her to obtain her M.B.A. and create Annie Hayes Wellness, a holistic approach to making wellness affordable and accessible to all.

As a national board-certified health and wellness coach, Anne will serve as a skilled partner to help you identify the steps you need to take to improve your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health and support you along the way. Whether you want to lose weight, change your habits, tackle life’s transitions with confidence, or feel better, her goal is for you to feel better after every session.

www.anniehayeswellness.com

Instagram: @anniehayeswellness

Facebook: Annie Hayes Wellness

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

As your host, Jen, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of getting the right diagnosis - it's a journey that can be as tumultuous as it is enlightening. That's why I invited Olivia Dennis to the show, where she bravely recounts her quest through the tangled healthcare system, grappling with the often invisible web of IBS, anxiety, OCD, and autism. Olivia's candid narrative strikes a chord, revealing the emotional toll of being misunderstood and the subsequent liberation of understanding her true self after an autism diagnosis at 19. Her resilience is a beacon for anyone feeling lost in the labyrinth of healthcare.

Our exploration of chronic illness doesn't stop there. Olivia courageously steps into the spotlight, shedding light on her life with a spectrum of genetic and chronic health conditions, including POTS, CMT, fibromyalgia, and gastroparesis. Her story is a testament to the relentless pursuit of balance between treatments and lifestyle changes, which includes a daily regimen of managing symptoms that could easily overwhelm the strongest among us. Our guest's insights into the genetic intricacies of CMT and the pervasive influence of fibromyalgia offer a poignant reminder of the complex battles fought behind the smiles of those with invisible illnesses.

Wrapping up with a touch of warmth and compassion, Olivia opened up about the joy she found in assembling spoonie boxes for fellow chronically ill young adults, a project that has seen 58 care packages spread light across the country. These acts of kindness, along with the steadfast support of therapy, family, and the unwavering love of pets, have become a cornerstone of her personal journey. Through stories of validation, laughter, and faith, this episode celebrates the indomitable spirit that unites us in the face of life's greatest health challenges. Join us for an episode filled with raw emotion, unwavering courage, and the healing power of community.

Instagram accounts: @oliviardennis
@yourpainhasapurpose

Info & Funding for Spoonie Boxes: https://www.gofundme.com/f/fund-care-boxes-for-chronically-ill-teens

Mental health resources: https://linktr.ee/mental.health.support

Olivia’s favorite ice packs: https://www.releafpack.com

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

When your world is turned upside down by chronic illness, finding humor and connection can be your lifeline. That's exactly what happened when Jewel, the effervescent @thelipedemacushie, joined me for a chat that'll make you laugh, and nod along with understanding. We dove into Jewel's experiences with Cushing's disease, her surgeries, and the daily dance with adrenal insufficiency. There's something incredibly powerful about sharing stories of resilience, and Jewel's candidness about her spine surgery and its aftermath reminds us all that strength often comes with a side of vulnerability.

Our conversation took a lighter turn as we mused over the quirky collections that pepper our lives—from my array of cups to my husband's stash of comic book memorabilia. We all have our treasures, don't we? The secret sweatshirt hoards, the spoons from travels, or that second fridge in the garage that silently marks our passage into adulthood—these collections tell the stories of our lives. And as we laughed about the closet wars waged with our loved ones, it was clear that these shared spaces hold more than just stuff; they hold the essence of our relationships, too.

Rounding off our tête-à-tête, Jewel and I touched on the peculiar world of mail delays and the sweet anticipation of giveaways that mean so much, particularly to those of us with chronic illnesses. We delved into the role of physical therapy, the non-negotiables of emergency medication, and the oddities of coordinating meals across time zones. It's not every day you get to plan lunch and breakfast simultaneously! Whether you're tuning in for a dose of empathy, a spot of crafting, or just to feel understood, this episode is a warm invite to join our community where chronic illness is part of the conversation, but not the whole story.

The Lipedema Cushie - Listen on YouTube, Spotify - Linktree

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

Leila's voice crackles with emotion as she recounts the moment her life took an unexpected turn with the diagnosis of Lupus and Sjogren's disease. Her candid narrative details the trials and triumphs of living with these stealthy autoimmune diseases, from the early signs that something was amiss to the latest treatment that's been her saving grace. We're honored to have her on our show, sharing invaluable insights into the world of chronic illness, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, and the intricate dance of managing health care with a condition that refuses to play by the rules.

Our conversation takes a heartfelt detour through stories of resilience that bloom in the face of adversity and the incredible journey working for AiArthritis. We hear how a simple melody, the support of a spouse, and the companionship of a furry friend can bring solace to aching souls. The episode weaves tales of personal transformation, from career changes that resonate with purpose to the empowerment found in the communal embrace of fellow warriors battling autoimmune diseases. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of community, the power of education, and the collective voice raised during awareness initiatives, shining a beacon of hope for all those touched by the shadow of lupus.

www.instagram.com/lupus.lifestyle.lei

www.tiktok.com/lupus.lifestyle.lei

https://linktr.ee/lupuslifestyle.lei

www.aiarthritis.org

www.aiarthritis.org/aiarthritisday

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

Struggle and healing often go hand in hand, as Delicia's gripping tale of resilience unfolds in our latest conversation. Facing a health odyssey that begins with severe allergies and the emotional scars of childhood trauma, she takes us through her diagnosis and the powerful connection between emotional distress and physical health. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone facing similar battles as she recounts her experiences with hay made from barley on a Swiss farm, propelling a discussion on the intertwining of past traumas and present health conditions.

Delicia doesn't shy away from the raw realities of living with chronic pain, sharing the complexities of managing Crohn's disease with treatments ranging from Biologics to a holistic approach. Her journey is punctuated by surgeries and the acceptance of a permanent colostomy bag, yet it's her gratitude and unyielding spirit that captivates us. As she navigates the daily confines of the "Spoon Theory," we're reminded of the power of community, meditation, and a mindset geared towards positivity.

Tune in to hear Delicia's insights on the double-edged sword of medical treatments, the risks of immunosuppressive drugs, and the essential role of therapy in her well-being. The conversation also reveals her passion for advocacy against child molestation, highlighting her determination to turn personal adversity into a source of support and awareness for others. Her trilogy memoir stands as a testament to her courage and the transformative power of storytelling, offering a raw and authentic perspective on trauma, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of purpose.

Website - www.kissingasphalt.com

Facebook Page - kissingasphaltmemoir
Instagram - delicianiami_author

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

When Lisa Norris, a part-time paramedic and former clinical trials researcher, recounts her 20-year struggle with lupus and polymyositis, it's not just a story of illness but of extraordinary perseverance. Our latest episode invites you into Lisa's world, where she navigates the complexities of her autoimmune diseases with the same precision and focus she once brought to emergency scenes and research labs. Her candid discussion of the sudden emergence of her symptoms, the winding path to a correct diagnosis, and her evolving treatment plan, including the strategic use of steroids, is both educational and deeply moving.

Living with an autoimmune disease like lupus can feel like sailing in unpredictable weather, but Lisa's experience teaches us the art of charting a course through the choppiest of waters. She shares valuable insights into managing the condition's daily challenges, from deciphering lab results to planning around environmental triggers that aggravate symptoms. Together, we explore the importance of a strong support network and the determination to live fully. The episode serves as a testament to the power of self-advocacy, the benefit of informed healthcare partnerships, and the unspoken bond shared by those who face similar battles.

This heartfelt exchange culminates in an unexpected twist - guidance from a veterinarian with an autoimmune disease that enriched Lisa’s approach to managing her health. The discussion transcends professional boundaries and underscores the profound comfort found in shared experiences. Whether it's through hobbies like jewelry making that double as therapeutic outlets or the inspiring resilience of public figures with autoimmune conditions, the stories shared in this episode are a beacon of hope and camaraderie. If you're on a quest for understanding, community, or just a sign that you're not alone on this journey, Lisa extends a warm invitation to connect and find solace in the shared paths we tread.

Instagram: @autoimmunewarriorinfo

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

There's nothing more humbling than hearing the story of someone who's faced the gauntlet of health challenges and emerged with wisdom to share. That's precisely what you'll get as Suzanne Casamento joins us to recount her battles with chronic Lyme disease, medical gaslighting, and a complexity of health issues that would test anyone's resolve. Her story isn't just a sequence of struggles; it's a beacon for anyone who's felt unheard or misunderstood by the medical system, and it's packed with insights into the importance of advocating for your own health.

As we unravel Suzanne's narrative, we venture into the lesser-traveled paths of healing, discussing the profound effects of alternative therapies. From the muscle testing and Chinese herbs that brought Suzanne relief to my transformative encounters with acupuncture and Ayurvedic medicine, this conversation deeply explores the body's capacity to heal in non-traditional ways. It's a chapter for the curious and the seekers who believe that recovery goes beyond prescriptions and that our bodies sometimes whisper the solutions we need.

In our journey with Suzanne, we unmask the power of detoxing both emotionally and physically through modalities such as AmpCoil therapy, breathwork, and energy work. This episode examines the interconnectedness of our emotional states and physical health, a lesson in how our unresolved traumas manifest as persistent pain. As a Lyme survivor and now a practitioner, she offers a glimpse into my practice and how to help clients find balance and peace. It's a testament to the strength of vulnerability and an invitation to open your mind to the healing potential that may lie just outside the bounds of conventional medicine.

Website:
https://www.suzannecasamento.com/

To book an AmpCoil Session:
https://www.suzannecasamento.com/ampcoil-PEMF-sessions-los-angeles

My Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/suzanne.casamento?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

Have you ever wondered why we carry certain beliefs about sexuality, or how those beliefs impact our intimate relationships? In a riveting discussion with Dr. Fanny the Baker, an acclaimed sex coach, we unravel the intricate web of sexuality myths and the profound influence of sex education on our perceptions. As we examine the delicate interplay between intimacy and expectations, Dr. Fanny and I illuminate the significance of pleasure, safety, and communication in sexual relationships. You'll discover the importance of pacing and self-awareness in finding satisfaction, especially when chronic illness adds another layer of complexity to the mix.

This episode takes an enlightening turn as we venture into the transformative realm of self-consent, unpacking how recognizing your personal boundaries and desires can lead to a richer sexual life. Through the lens of conditions like vulvodynia, we discuss the perils of ignoring discomfort and the pivotal role of internal dialogue in honoring one's physical and emotional needs. We further delve into strategies for fostering trust and safety in conversations with partners, ensuring that the connection remains strong and sincere. When an audience member's question brings the topic of medication and libido to the table, we explore how to balance one's medicinal needs with the pursuit of a fulfilling sex life, challenging societal norms and redefining personal pleasure. Join us for this empowering journey toward a deeper, more joyous connection with one's own sexuality.

Links : 

• Your Sexyfied Life on your favorite podcast platform (or https://feeds.captivate.fm/your-sexyfied-life/ )
  
  
• Get the Essence free ebook https://view.flodesk.com/pages/63762fafc6d1c43fb3bac1bf**
• Get on my email list : https://view.flodesk.com/pages/649da546a6be29330ccbaa59**
• www.fannyleboulanger.com
  
  
• IG : @withdoctorfanny (but for real, get on my email list if you want to stay in touch, I have a love-hate relationship with Instagram )

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/

When resilience meets wisdom, stories like that of Carrie Shepperson unfold. Her journey through the labyrinth of Still's disease, narrative rich with city savvy and mountain wisdom, is one I had the privilege to uncover. Carrie, hailing from Kentucky and a steadfast volunteer at AiArthritis, shares her personal odyssey from bewildering symptoms to a fierce advocacy for those entangled in the complexities of autoimmune disorders. Her analytical nurse's mind, coupled with an unwavering spirit, sheds light on the nuances of navigating a life altered by a rare medical condition.

Grasping the intricacies of Still's disease can feel like piecing together a puzzle in the dark, but Carrie's dialogue with me illuminates the path. She walks us through the rigors of symptom recognition, the significance of lab results that wax and wane, and the importance of understanding even the most enigmatic medical criteria. Our conversation explores both the scientific and the profoundly personal, offering solace to those embroiled in similar battles and providing a gateway to a community that supports and uplifts even in the grittiest times.

Beyond the diagnosis, we traverse the landscape of self-care, where Carrie imparts her wisdom on maintaining joint health and overall well-being amidst the storms of chronic illness. With simple yet potent strategies — a leisurely walk, the right balance of heat, ice, and nutrition, and the embrace of a gratitude practice — she paints a picture of a life embraced with joy despite its trials. Her story is a beacon, guiding listeners through the fog of their own health journeys with the assurance that every small step is a victory in the quest to live fully and vibrantly.

https://www.aiarthritis.org/
https://www.nomidalliance.org/
https://stillsnow.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Discount Codes:

• https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen20)
• GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Website:

• https://myspooniesisters.com/