Take a Pain Check

In this episode, we're honored to have Jeanine V McGuire sharing her incredible journey with JRA (Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis). From her diagnosis story spanning two years to navigating high school with accommodations, shifting friendship dynamics, and excelling as a student-athlete, Jeanine's resilience shines through. She dives into the challenges of managing arthritis during college, both living independently and staying at home. We explore her dedication to fitness, adapting training routines, and maintaining a social life. Jeanine shares valuable insights on transitioning to adult healthcare, telling her partner she has arthritis, getting involved in the chronic disease community, and her impactful roles with the Arthritis Foundation, including the PA race planning committee and the Ease of Use Box campaign. Tune in for advice on managing chronic conditions while pursuing your passions, maintaining a positive mindset, and insights into Jeanine's worries for the future.

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we delve into the experiences of Jillian Wickert, who has been living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) for the majority of her life. From her diagnosis story to navigating through various treatments and medications, Jillian shares her journey with candor and resilience. We explore the challenges she faced in school and the impact of her condition on her social life. Jillian also opens up about the psychological barriers she encountered and how she overcame them, shedding light on the need for understanding and support. As she discusses her thesis project centered around the question 'How are you doing, really?' Jillian offers valuable insights into what constitutes a neutral experience for individuals living with JIA. We uncover the nuances of Jillian's journey, gain valuable advice for those facing similar circumstances, and explore the significance of community engagement in the realm of chronic illness. Additionally, we delve into the exploration of alternative treatment options alongside medications, the interactions with people over a lifespan, and the delicate balance of when to share or withhold information about one's arthritis. Through the lens of trial and error, we navigate the complexities of managing chronic illness and finding the right path to wellness.

Sign up for our first joint chat rheum session to meet others with rheumatic diseases this month: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElcO2tqD8qG9LiI_INsTT7kpGKyhsnKTNZ#/registrationOur socials:Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck?lang=enX: https://twitter.com/takeapaincheckGrowing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara

In this week’s episode of Take a Pain Check, we delve into the journey of Rachel Gehue, who bravely shares her experiences living with JRA, Spherocytosis, anxiety, OCD, and depression. From the emotional impact of her diagnosis to the challenges faced in school, sports, and social life, Rachel unfolds a narrative of strength and perseverance. She discusses the medications that have played a crucial role in her journey, the supportive relationship with her rheumatologist, and the importance of a patient-centered approach. She discusses the highs and lows of her undergraduate experience, the impact on friendships, and her strategies for managing mental health. Lastly, we discussed Rachel’s advocacy work, from her active participation in the Walk for Arthritis to her role with Patient Partners in NL.

On this week’s episode on Take a Pain Check, Kyle Brooks talks about his diagnosis journey and about navigating the challenges of JIA and psoriasis. From physio to a two-year wait for answers, Kyle shares his daily battles with symptoms and medications. We delve into the social aspect, addressing bullying, handling negative comments, and finding resilience. Kyle opens up about school life, securing accommodations, and fostering a positive relationship with his general practitioner. Not only that, this episode talks about contrasts in healthcare systems between England and Canada. Finally, we discuss Kyle’s involvement in awareness initiatives, from live streams to TikTok, and his passion for the arts which adds a unique perspective.

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Isabel Dukes opens up about her personal journey dealing with JIA, Lupus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome, ADHD, and Dyslexia. She shares candid reflections on navigating the challenges of high school, dating in university, and the significant transition to adult life, including moving in with her partner. The episode delves into her medication journey and the evolving accommodations she has navigated since her youth. Isabel discusses the critical role of her support system during high school and the unique hurdles encountered in transitioning from pediatric to adult care. As an industrial designer, she discusses her commitment to accessibility. Not only that, she talks about her experience at arthritis camp, the @ArthritisSociety Walk, volunteering with Take a Pain Check and her active participation in the Make Rheum for Youth project by TAPC and @canadianarthritispatiental3234 . The episode concludes with practical advice on advocacy, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and community engagement for those navigating health challenges.

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Alyssa discusses her journey in being involved in the treatment of osteoarthritis care. She discusses the knowledge gap in patient communication, the importance of a holistic approach, and practical advice on exercise for managing symptoms. Additionally, Alyssa also shares insights into physiotherapist appointments and highlights her initiative, “Keep the Adventure Alive,” aimed at helping those with osteoarthritis lead fulfilling lives. The episode explores the significance of exercise in managing symptoms and provides practical advice on safe muscle strengthening and relieving knee pain. Alyssa also shares insights into what patients can expect during physiotherapist appointments, the duration of sessions, and the personalized approach to care. The episode concludes by emphasizing the significance of Alyssa’s YouTube channel in spreading awareness and building a supportive community.

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Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara#osteoarthritis

Join us on this week’s episode of Take a Pain Check as Brookie Zarb shares her journey with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA). From the initial symptoms to facing healthcare practitioners, Brookie discusses her diagnosis, medication experiences, and their impact on her life. She explores how PsA influenced her high school years, friendships, and extracurricular activities. She dives into the dynamics of her family, navigating the emotional rollercoaster of sibling diagnoses. Brookie discusses the Australian healthcare system, her creative coping mechanisms during flares, and her role as a Take a Pain Check ambassador. Hear her valuable advice for those dealing with rheumatic diseases in high school and those hesitant about getting involved with organizations.

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Resources: https://msk.org.au/

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Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara

In this podcast episode, we delve into Dr. Anna Costello’s pathway to becoming a rheumatologist. She shares her initial interest in oncology and the reasons as to why her decision took her to rheumatology and pediatric medicine. She discusses her educational background, from her undergraduate years at Brown University to her medical school experience and the unique opportunities that paved the way to her current position at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Costello opens up about her decision to pursue a fellowship and the challenges of transitioning from the working world back into education, providing valuable insights into her daily life and how she manages her physical and mental health. The episode also delves into her research interests, particularly in addressing diagnostic delays in patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and her approach to ensuring accurate diagnoses within limited timeframes.

In this week's episode of "Take a Pain Check," we sit down with Laurie Proulx, who takes us on a journey through her life and experiences dealing with arthritis. Laurie discusses her early years, when arthritis seemed to be taking control of her life, and how she found solace and inspiration in the realms of piano, dance, and voice lessons. Diagnosed with arthritis in 1991, she sheds light on the limited treatment options available at the time, including her experience with gold therapy and crossing the border for medical care. Laurie's story unfolds as she saw the introduction of biologics enter in the field of rheumatology, and she emphasizes the importance of education on medication. Through eight surgeries, she shares her coping strategies for dealing with chronic pain and the role that Methotrexate played in her treatment journey. Laurie also delves into the therapeutic power of music and her personal journey with pregnancy, highlighting the reproductive health resources she has created and collaborated on. Tune in to gain insight into Laurie's inspiring journey and her resilience in the face of chronic pain.
Don't forget to subscribe to Take a Pain Check for updates!Laurie's Socials X: @ProulxLaurieInstagram: @capa_arthritisOur socials:Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch... Twitter: https://twitter.com/takeapaincheck​​​ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara#juvenilearthritis #chronicillness #juvenilearthritis #research #patientsbelike #arthritis #chronicpain

In this week's episode of Take a Pain Check, we dive deep into Maddie Nero's inspiring journey with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. From the early symptoms and struggles with medical professionals to triumphing over bullying in school, Maddie's story is a testament to resilience. Join us as we explore her college life, her passion for pageantry, and her empowering initiative, the Self Care Club for people with disabilities who want to learn more about self care.