Ep. 93 Naked Realities. Part 1 of 2. A poetic look at Invisible Illnesses with author Martin Keogh

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In this two-part series we get to hear from the author of Naked Realities, Martin Keogh. The compilation of poems takes a no-holds-barred look at chronic illness. There is no sugar coating within those pages. Those of us living with any of the complex illnesses, such as ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, or long covid, are grouped under the moniker, ‘the millions missing.’ We have grown to become a considerable throng of people whose disability makes it challenging to be seen and heard.If you are one of us, these reflections are for you.
This book delves into five themes:
* Living with chronic disease
* Living with symptoms
* Living with people
* Living with loss
* Living with curiosity

An iconic painting from one of history’s celebrated artists accompanies each poetic reflection. The writings speak to the realities and hardships of living with a disability, while the paintings, through their beauty, celebrate the restorative acts of resting and sleep. These reflections arose to help remind us that each breath breathed is a breath of life and possibility. May this book help you grapple with what has come crashing into your world and give you language to communicate your experience with others. Let’s together explore the naked realities of living day-to-day with a long-haul condition.I wish you the best in your health marathon.––The Missing Neighbor
Connect with Martin through the following links:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083998309919
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/the_missing_neighbor/
Naked Realities: Living with an Invisible Chronic Illness: USA Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Realities-Invisible-Chronic-Illness-ebook/dp/B0BHQZCZQP/ref=tmm_kin_swa

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*