Arthritis Life

The conversation also dives into the emotional side of chronic illness, including fear of movement, the importance of interoception (body awareness), and how to avoid the boom–bust cycle of overdoing it. Cheryl and Jamie reflect on the shift from a “warrior” mindset to one rooted in acceptance, adaptability, and long-term self-care. Ultimately, this episode offers a hopeful, realistic perspective: that thriving with arthritis isn’t about pushing harder, it’s about finding what works for your body and building a life alongside it, not in spite of it.  Episode at a glance: 01:27 Jamie’s Diagnosis Journey 05:41 Processing The Reality Online 07:05 Gender And Community Support 11:50 From Isolation To Teaching 19:12 Why Accessibility Matters 22:59 Adaptations And Safer Strength 31:58 Interoception Explained 33:23 Proprioception and Arthritis 36:02 When Awareness Becomes Sensitivity 36:57 Progression Beyond Rehab Sheets 39:55 Progressive Overload in Flares 42:45 Just Right Challenge 43:09 Accessible Training Tools 45:47 Acceptance and Thriving 48:58 Community and Uncertainty 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Together, we walk through how to find reputable research, what “peer-reviewed” really means, and why one exciting study doesn’t equal a proven treatment. Dr. Li also explains key concepts like plain language summaries, the hierarchy of evidence, and how to spot common traps like cherry-picking data or misleading headlines. Our goal on this episode is to give you some practical tools so you can feel more confident, informed, and supported in your health decisions. Because learning how to interpret research helps you build realistic, evidence-based hope that actually serves you long-term.  Episode at a glance: Why “doing your own research” can feel empowering, but also confusing without the right tools Trusted places to start when looking for arthritis information (so you’re not relying on random posts or headlines) What “peer-reviewed research” means in plain language How plain language summaries make research more accessible (and why to look for them) Why not everything published in a journal is high-quality (and what “predatory journals” are) The truth about “one study says…” and why science is built over time What cherry-picking data looks like—and how it can lead to misleading conclusions The difference between correlation and causation (and why it matters for treatment decisions) Red flags to watch for when you see bold claims online Simple ways to feel more confident evaluating research, without necessarily needing a science degree Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They also  reflect on how they’ve navigated the ups and downs of chronic illness life and share how grief and joy can co-exist. They also highlight the importance of  finding a supportive community with shared experiences. They also discuss their choices around how much to share on social media about their experiences. Paulina, Jenny, Ali, and Ananthi each share wisdom that has guided them along this nonlinear journey; encouraging self-care, advocating, celebrating small victories, and approaching life one day at a time. They conclude with a discussion about how to balance acceptance and adapting with a “fixing” mindset. Episode at a glance: Methotrexate and treatment plans: what’s changed and what’s stayed the same? Pregnancy and medication decisions: Jenny and Cheryl discuss how their pregnancies affected their treatments, as methotrexate is unsafe during pregnancy The impact of a supportive community: the panel reflects on how important it’s been to find others who “get it” The coexistence of joy and grief: the panel reflects on how important it is to make space for both joy and grief Coping toolbox: each panelists shares what’s in her coping toolbox, including reflections on how living “one day at a time” helps cope with unpredictability Balancing Chronic Illness and Identity: Some participants share the challenge of balancing their identity with chronic illness. They expressed the importance of finding a balance between addressing health needs and living a full life. Social Media and Mental Health: The discussion touched on the impact of social media on mental health. Participants shared their experiences of navigating online spaces, stressing the need to set boundaries and avoid being consumed by the negativity that can sometimes arise. Acceptance and Adaptation: The conversation delved into the journey of acceptance and adaptation to life with chronic illness. Participants shared personal strategies for navigating challenges, such as making choices that enable a better quality of life and adjusting plans based on energy levels 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cristina and Cheryl also discuss Cristina’s new GLOW framework: Grow gut diversity, Lower inflammation, Optimize energy, and Work with your body compassionately. The conversation also covers gut health, the risks of overly restrictive diets, mindful eating, and how to aim for progress over perfection, even on flare days. Episode at a glance: 02:02 Diagnosis and Acceptance 05:25 Medications Plus Lifestyle 06:48 Why Cristina Became a Dietitian 13:59 GLOW Framework Explained 29:16 Defining Gut Health 36:10 Healing Your Food Relationship 38:20 Why Restriction Backfires 40:05 Mindful Treats and Less Stress 41:37 Sustainable Habits Over Time 43:01 Progress Over Perfection 43:49 Shifting Priorities with Illness 49:12 Living a Good Life with RA 51:43 Where to Find Cristina’s Spanish Podcast 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Yasmin also shares what it was like to navigate multiple major health crises at once, including serious GI symptoms and an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis, and how it all impacted her mental health and anxiety. Together, Cheryl and Yasmin explore the tools that helped her cope and rebuild: therapy (CBT/talking therapy), journaling, poetry, mindfulness, support groups, pacing, and learning to advocate for herself. Yasmin’s message is clear and hopeful: life may change after diagnosis, but it doesn’t end. You can still pursue dreams, create meaning, and build a full, beautiful life. Episode at a glance: 01:43 Misdiagnosis Then RA 03:32 Lockdown Flare And Meds 04:34 Why Early Treatment Matters 09:55 Breast Cancer Diagnosis 15:46 Therapy Journaling And Art 21:02 Support Groups And Pacing 24:52 Self Compassion And Boundaries 26:56 Learning Self Advocacy 30:24 Pushing for Imaging 33:48 Handling Dismissal 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! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl and Chrissy also do a deep dive into the Rheum to THRIVE program and discuss their excitement over Chrissy taking on a new role as the lead facilitator of an upcoming cohort.  Chrissy’s facilitation style is flexible and responsive, letting the group’s needs guide the conversation while keeping it grounded in the weekly theme. If you want a supportive, stigma-free space that helps you feel less alone, more informed, and more capable of building a full life with arthritis, Chrissy’s Rheum to THRIVE group might be just right for you - learn more here.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome Back, Chrissy! Quick Catch-Up & Arthritis Background 11:23 Big Announcement: Training New Rheum to Thrive Facilitators 12:13 Why Chrissy Wanted to Facilitate (and What Participants Gain) 18:40 What a Typical Rheum to Thrive Meeting Looks Like (THRIVE Breakdown) 35:26 Rheum to Thrive Explained: Cohort Learning + Alumni Support (and Why Topics Help) 39:41 On the Fence About Support Groups? Privacy, Intimidation & Finding the Right Fit 42:30 Myths, Doom Spirals & Misinformation: What Good Facilitation Looks Like 45:45 Participation Your Way: Cameras Off, Chat-Only, Discord, and Asking for Help 51:34 Words of Wisdom: “Life Is Different, But It’s Not Over” + Acceptance & Adapting Goals 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They also discuss safe, realistic strategies that support joint health, including tailored exercise and strength training, plus the emerging evidence on GLP-1 medications (like semaglutide/Ozempic/Wegovy) for people with obesity and arthritis. The key message: obesity is a treatable chronic condition, and care should be compassionate, individualized, and evidence-based.*Content note/ trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of body weight, obesity, BMI, and weight-loss medications (including GLP-1 drugs).  We approach this topic from a stigma-free, evidence-based perspective, as well as lived experience, but we know conversations about weight can be sensitive or activating, especially for those with a history of weight stigma, eating disorders, or body image challenges. Listener discretion encouraged.Episode at a glance:Weight and arthritis: inflammation + joint load (OA and inflammatory arthritis)Why adipose tissue can worsen pain and disease activityBMI limits: muscle loss, fat distribution, and rheumatoid cachexiaExercise myth-busting: movement helps when it’s tailored and gradualStrength training for knee support and better joint mechanicsGLP-1 medications (semaglutide, tirzepatide): what research shows so farStigma-free framing: obesity is chronic, not a personal failurePractical next steps and trusted resources (Arthritis Research Canada webinar)Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Birnbaum also addresses common early fears, including confusion about autoimmune disease and anxiety around immunosuppressive medications, reframing treatment as dialing down an overactive immune response rather than taking away your immune system. Throughout the episode, he encourages self-advocacy, realistic hope, and partnership with your care team, and shares insights from his book“Living well with autoimmune diseases”  A Rheumatologist's Guide to Taking Charge of Your Health. The takeaway is empowering and hopeful: we’re living in a “golden era” of RA care, with more effective treatments and real reason to believe a full, meaningful life is possible alongside this diagnosis.Episode at a glance:00:20 Dr. Burnbaum's Background and Passion for Arthritis & Neurology05:19 The Diagnostic Process in Rheumatology08:59 Understanding Inflammatory Arthritis15:22 Explaining Autoimmune Diseases and Inflammation23:11 The Role of Immunosuppressive Therapies28:16 Personalized Treatment Plans in Rheumatology30:50 Understanding Diagnostic Criteria and Nuances31:31 Dealing with Diagnostic Ambiguity32:57 Empowerment Through Patient-Doctor Partnership38:10 Practical Tips for Patient Empowerment46:03 Realistic Hope and Coping Strategies56:34 Concluding Thoughts and ResourcesMedical 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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Listeners will learn how to reframe movement as something personal, enjoyable, and adaptable, because sustainable behavior change comes from doing what fits your life, not from chasing perfect routines. The biggest benefits come from starting small, not from hitting rigid guidelines like 10,000 steps or 150 minutes per week.   Episode at a glance:Why movement matters (and what counts): How physical activity supports pain, stiffness, fatigue, mood, and mental health, and why movement doesn’t have to mean gym workouts, strict guidelines, or 10,000 steps to be beneficial. How to move with arthritis - realistically: Practical guidance on starting (or restarting) movement during flares, fatigue, anxiety, or depression, including pacing, rest vs. movement, muscle soreness vs. joint pain, and why short “movement snacks” can be both effective and sustainable. How to make it stick: Building lasting movement habits by keeping them personal, flexible, enjoyable, and supportive, plus a walkthrough of the free, arthritis-friendly Just One Move resource, including flare-friendly options and habit-building tools.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tori also highlights the vital role of creative expression, through painting and poetry, in coping with chronic illness and reclaiming parts of her life. Listeners will be inspired by her powerful poems, descriptions of her artistic adaptations, and advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life despite chronic health challenges. This episode is particularly resonant for those recently diagnosed with RA and looking for ways to find healing and joy in their new reality.Episode at a glance:00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:20 Tori's Background and Diagnosis Journey10:49 Creative Expressions as a Lifeline13:36 Poetry and Personal Reflections18:09 Cultural and Familial Challenges24:40 Redefining Healing and the Hero's Journey25:57 The Rollercoaster of Life with RA27:28 Creativity as a Form of Healing28:35 Adapting Artistic Practices32:52 The Power of Letting Emotions Out33:35 A Poem: Not That Girl37:59 Words of Wisdom for the Newly Diagnosed45:33 Conclusion and Where to Find MoreMedical 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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Stamatos explains why fibromyalgia is absolutely real, how it commonly overlaps with inflammatory diseases like RA, and what’s actually happening in the brain, nerves, and spinal fluid of people with fibromyalgia. She offers practical guidance for telling the difference between an RA flare and a fibromyalgia flare, explains why opioids often make fibromyalgia pain worse, and reframes treatment as a whole-person, multi-tool approach, not a single pill, diet, or supplement. This conversation is especially powerful if you’ve ever felt dismissed, blamed, or overwhelmed by mixed messages about pain, fatigue, brain fog, sleep, or mental health. You’ll walk away feeling validated, better informed, and more confident in navigating life with both conditions.Episode at a glance:Why fibromyalgia is a real, biologically based condition (and what the science actually shows) How common fibromyalgia is in people with RA and other chronic illnesses What functional MRI, nerve studies, and spinal fluid research reveal about fibromyalgia pain Why opioids often worsen pain sensitivity in fibromyalgia instead of helping How trauma, prolonged untreated pain, and stress can “turn on” fibromyalgia Practical ways to tell the difference between RA inflammation vs fibromyalgia pain The critical role of sleep, mental health, and stress regulation in pain management Why fibromyalgia treatment is a constellation of strategies, not a magic fix A compassionate explanation of catastrophizing — and how to work with uncertainty How to explain fibromyalgia to friends and family (including the Spoon Theory) Trusted resources for learning more, including The Chronic Pain Reset by Dr Afton HassettMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl shares the origin story of the podcast, how it has evolved over time, and why storytelling remains at the center of her mission: helping people feel less alone, more informed, and more empowered to live well alongside chronic illness.Cheryl then walks through nine core themes that keep resurfacing across these conversations, including: validation and belonging, coping with uncertainty, the power of community, navigating medication decisions, redefining “normal,” and why self-compassion, acceptance, identity, and joy still matter after diagnosis. This episode is an honest reflection on what it really means to “thrive” with arthritis, not as a one-size-fits-all outcome, but as a deeply personal, evolving process rooted in realistic hope, credible information, and human connection. Episode at a glance:01:31 The Origin Story of the Podcast06:27 Challenges and Reflections on Running the Podcast13:50 Nine Core Themes from 200 Episodes14:04 Theme 1: You Are Not Alone17:12 Theme 2: The Challenge of Uncertainty20:28 Theme 3: The Power of Community22:41 Theme 4: The Importance of Credible Education26:35 Theme 5: Emotional Medication Decisions29:01 Theme 6: Redefining Normal30:52 Theme 7: Acceptance and Self-Compassion32:58 Theme 8: RA as a Whole Life Condition33:59 Theme 9: Identity, Purpose, and JoyMedical 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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie's diagnosis of hip dysplasia which led to osteoarthritis, her hip replacement surgeries in 2022 and 2023, and her experience running the Boston Marathon. Carrie emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, having a strong support and care team, and setting mini goals during recovery. They also candidly talk about the emotional struggle with post-marathon blues and how time, support, and new goals helped Carrie overcome it. Overall, Carrie aims to give hope to others facing similar medical challenges.Episode at a glance:Carrie’s Arthritis and Double Hip Replacement Journey: Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie’s arthritis diagnosis and how that led to having double hip replacements.Carrie’s Experience Running the Boston Marathon: Carrie shares her experience of running in the Boston Marathon in April 2025. The Importance of Self-Advocacy and a Support Team: Cheryl and Carrie discuss the importance of advocating for yourself and having a strong support system to help you overcome challenges.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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Together, they break down common myths about fragility, rest, and “wear and tear,” while explaining why tailored exercise programs are not only safe but essential. Dr. Andonian also offers practical guidance for managing fatigue, using slow progression, and finding trustworthy exercise resources. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand how movement can improve whole-body health with RA.Episode at a glance:1. Exercise is far more than “movement” - it directly supports immune health, slows accelerated aging, and improves disease activity in RA.Dr. Andonian explains how aerobic and strength training influence inflammation, cellular metabolism, and mitochondrial function in ways that go far beyond joint comfort.2. RA is a whole-body immune disease, so exercise must be tailored, not avoided.Listeners learn why joints are actually a secondary issue in RA, why “too fragile to exercise” is a myth, and how the right mix of aerobic, strength, and mobility work can support the cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune systems.3. There is no one-size-fits-all exercise plan; successful programs must be personalized.Dr. Andonian breaks down how arthritis type, disease location, comorbidities, and fatigue shape exercise prescriptions, and why slow progression and “exercise snacks” are essential for many patients.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 She explains the key role nurse practitioners play in rheumatology and highlights the lifestyle habits, like movement and nutrition, that have made a real difference in her own health. Cayla also offers practical advice for communicating with healthcare providers and supporting yourself after a new diagnosis.Her story is an inspiring reminder that living well with a chronic illness is not only possible, but achievable.Episode at a glance:Cayla’s personal journey with axial spondyloarthritis and the challenges of getting diagnosed youngHow nurse practitioners support patients in rheumatologyLifestyle tools Cayla uses to manage her condition, including exercise and nutritionTips for communicating effectively with healthcare providersEncouragement and practical advice for those newly diagnosedInsight into living a full, meaningful life while managing chronic illnessMedical 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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They also reflect on new insights into mental health, cognitive dysfunction, and  the importance of the microbiome as part of lifestyle interventions. This episode offers hope, practical advice, and the latest research to help manage your condition more effectively.Episode at a glance:00:00 Introduction to Rheumer Has It00:30 Importance of the ACR Annual Conference03:02 Sessions on Patient Health Literacy and Support Groups07:10 Dietary Interventions and Microbiome Research10:54 Mental Health and Fatigue in Rheumatic Diseases15:50 Innovative Treatments: CAR T-Cell Therapy and Vagus Nerve Stimulation19:50 GLP-1 Medications and Their Benefits25:23 Cognitive Dysfunction in Rheumatic Diseases29:22 Spotlight on Sjogren's Disease31:50 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They share words of wisdom for individuals newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing kindness, self-compassion, and love. Helen also discusses the highlights of her experience in the Rheum to THRIVE program and how it helped her adjust to her new normal. Helen also shares how using the PERMA model from positive psychology (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning & Accomplishment) helps keep her life and condition manageable. She encourages taking it day by day and continuously asking oneself how to love and support oneself through the journey. This episode is a great reminder for anyone with chronic illnesses to focus on self-love to navigate the challenges of the condition.Episode at a glance:Helen’s Journey with Arthritis: Helen describes diagnosis and treatment journey as gloriously imperfect.Self Compassion: Helen and Cheryl discuss how having self-compassion is a great coping mechanism for those with chronic illnesses.PERMA Model: Cheryl and Helen discuss what the PERMA model is and how it can be helpful in chronic illness management.Rheum to THRIVE: Cheryl and Helen discuss Helen’s experience with the Rheum to THRIVE support group.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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They discuss how they became Rheum Champions, their personal journeys with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, PCOS, and more, and the importance of community and support. The episode also highlights significant takeaways from the meeting, including research updates, the passion of the researchers, and the heartwarming sense of community.  This podcast serves as a powerful reminder of how important it is to integrate the patient voice into rheumatology research.   *This episode was originally recorded for the My Spoonie Sisters podcast. Episode at a glance:00:00 Welcome to the Rheum Champions Tell All01:59 Introducing the Rheum Champions03:55 Sharing Our Stories: The Journey to Advocacy07:13 The Impact of Community and Support10:55 Becoming a Rheum Champion16:09 Highlights from the 2025 Investigators Meeting24:52 Final Thoughts and How to Get InvolvedMedical 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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beyond her personal battle, Deb has established a global support group for those with osteonecrosis and actively participates in the Arthritis Foundation's Live Yes! Connect groups. Highlighting the power of community support and advocacy, Deb's story is an inspiring testament to resilience and the importance of helping others navigate similar health challenges.Episode at a glance:Deb’s Journey: Cheryl and Deb discuss Deb’s journey with osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis.The Power of Community: Deb shares how having a community is important for support and connection in the chronic illness world.Deb’s Support Groups: Cheryl and Deb discuss Deb’s global support groups and the Arthritis Foundation’s Live Yes! Connect groups. 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 SponsorsRheum 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!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Edens debunks common misconceptions, such as vaccines causing autoimmune diseases or always triggering flares. She explains that while mild immune responses are normal, serious complications are extremely rare and the benefits far outweigh the risks. Dr Edens emphasizes that vaccines not only prevent infections but also certain cancers, making them an essential part of care for immunosuppressed patients. The discussion also explores vaccine timing with medications, the dangers of misinformation, and how to talk about vaccine hesitancy with empathy and evidence.Episode at a glance:Guest Expert: Dr. Cuoghi Edens, dual-trained adult and pediatric rheumatologist at the University of Chicago.Myth #1: “Natural is better than vaccines” — Debunked; vaccines dramatically reduce child and adult mortality from infectious diseases.Myth #2: “Vaccines cause autoimmune diseases” — Overwhelming evidence shows they do not.Myth #3: “Vaccines always cause flare-ups” — Possible but uncommon; most patients tolerate vaccines well, and disease prevention outweighs brief discomfort.Risk–Benefit Balance: Vaccines protect against infections and cancers (HPV, hepatitis B) that can worsen or complicate autoimmune diseases.Timing & Medications: ACR guidelines suggest coordination with treatments like rituximab and high-dose steroids, but partial protection is better than none.Health Literacy Tip: “Doing research” means reviewing credible scientific evidence—not social-media opinions or cherry-picked studies.Social Stigma: Addresses misinformation, polarization, and “anti-vax” rhetoric, highlighting the need for compassion and critical thinking.Trusted Resources: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia vaccine education site and American College of Rheumatology guidelines.Key Takeaway: Vaccines are safe, vital, and empowering tools for people with autoimmune diseases.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum 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! Full Episode Show Notes:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website for full details including a transcript and video!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.