Navigating College and Chronic Illness: Tips from Gabi’s Spondyloarthritis Journey

Gabi highlights the accommodations that have been instrumental during her college experience, including adaptive tools and flexible scheduling. She shares how other young people with chronic illness can advocate for the accommodations they need to succeed in school.

Cheryl and Gabi also discuss the vital role of peer support groups, such as Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE program, and emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and maintaining a positive outlook. 

For those newly diagnosed, Gabi offers invaluable advice: seek reputable resources, stay informed, and embrace the mindset that thriving with a chronic illness requires adapting, planning, and finding joy amidst challenges. This inspiring conversation celebrates resilience, community, and the power of living well with a chronic illness.

Episode at a glance:

• Navigating Life with Spondyloarthritis and palatal tremor: Gabi shares her personal journey and how she manages the challenges of living with inflammatory arthritis. She also shares what it was like to try different medications and switch due to side effects.
• Key Tips and Tools for School and Work: Cheryl and Gabi discuss accommodations available through organizations like the Arthritis Foundation and adaptive tools and strategies for daily life.
• The Power of Self-Advocacy: Gabi highlights the importance of advocating for yourself in medical and personal settings.
• Creating a Supportive Environment: Gabi shares about finding community and encouragement through groups like Rheum to THRIVE and about the importance of building a network of understanding family, friends, and peers..
• Advice for the Newly Diagnosed: Lean on trustworthy resources, Stay informed and learn to adapt, and Focus on maintaining joy and living life fully despite the diagnosis.

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!