Ep 126 "When I look fine on the outside, but feel horrible on the inside" Christin Veasley

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What does resilience look like when you're living with chronic pain? Our special guest for this episode, Christin Veasley, can certainly give you an idea. Having battled chronic pain for over three decades, Kristen carries a wealth of insights on the physical and emotional toll it takes and the challenges faced while navigating the healthcare system. Despite the odds, she discovered a creative outlet that brought solace - photography - and co-founded the Chronic Pain Research Alliance, proving that joy can be found even in the most challenging circumstances

The second part of this episode is a candid conversation about the unseen effects of chronic pain on daily life and the concept of 'masking.' We dive into the constant decision-making, trade-offs, and careful balancing acts necessary for those battling this condition. We wrap up with a shift in gears, talking about photography. A journey that started as a creative outlet for Christin might also inspire some of you to pick up a camera. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned shooter, we offer tips and recommendations on starting in photography, selecting the right gear, and more. Listen in, as this episode is a blend of inspiration, empathy, and creativity, especially for those grappling with chronic pain.

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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.*