She and Cheryl also discuss the complexities of symptom tracking and diagnosis, challenges of treatment, and the importance of self-advocacy and support groups.

 Estela also highlights her nonprofit organization, Looms for Lupus, which she co-founded with her sisters to provide advocacy, support, and educational resources for those affected by lupus and overlapping conditions. 

The conversation covers personal coping strategies, the significance of community, and the multifaceted nature of living with chronic illness.

Episode at a glance:

• Estela's Advocacy Journey: Estela's extensive experience in the healthcare industry, working as a medical assistant from a young age, and how her sister’s lupus diagnosis in 2009 propelled her into the world of autoimmune advocacy.
• Estela’s Diagnosis Journey: Estela shares her long road to a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, touching on the difficulties of being seronegative and the importance of tracking and communicating symptoms effectively to healthcare providers.
• Treatment Challenges: The conversation covers Estela's experience with various treatments, including her struggles with medications, weight gain, hair loss, and how she found resilience through these challenges.
• Importance of Self-Advocacy: Advice and tips on the necessity of advocating for oneself within the medical system, and the impact it can have on receiving timely and accurate diagnoses.
• Looms for Lupus: An in-depth look at the foundation Estela co-founded with her sister. They discuss the support groups, educational symposiums, and bilingual resources offered by Looms for Lupus, dedicated to supporting those with lupus, fibromyalgia, mental health challenges, and their caregivers.
• Personal Coping Strategies: Estela highlights the strategies she employs to manage her health, such as mindfulness, spending time with family, painting, and journaling. She also emphasizes the importance of asking for help and giving oneself grace.
• Inspirational Advice: Estela's key message to listeners: never give in, never give up, never let go, and just keep fighting. She also underscores the necessity of knitting a community of hope and the importance of laughter and friendship.

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!