Arthritis Life

From navigating a complicated healthcare system to managing symptoms in a remote location, Dawn opens up about the real challenges she’s faced, and the tools that help her cope.Together, Dawn and Cheryl explore what it takes to live well with arthritis, from finding the right medications and building an exercise routine, to advocating for yourself and embracing self-care. Dawn also reflects on the power of mindset, gratitude, and simplifying life to focus on what truly matters.If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your diagnosis or unsure where to start, this conversation is full of down-to-earth wisdom, encouragement, and hope.Episode at a glance:Dawn’s Journey: Dawn shares her psoriatic arthritis diagnosis story. Life in Alaska: Dawn and Cheryl discuss the unique challenges of managing healthcare in Alaska. The Power of Exercise and Movement: Dawn shares how movement plays an important role in managing her symptoms. Mental Strength and Resilience: Dawn and Cheryl discuss tools and strategies for mental strength and resilience. Working in the Medical Field with Chronic Illness: Dawn shares her background in the medical field and how it shaped her approach to chronic illness.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! 

The discussion addresses concerns about medication side effects, the importance of treating rheumatic diseases early, and the false stigma that using advanced treatments indicates more severe disease or personal failure. Dr. Hazelwood emphasizes the importance of balancing risks and benefits and provides insights into how modern treatments can significantly improve quality of life. The episode emphasizes the safety and necessity of these medications and highlights the benefits of starting treatment early to prevent long-term complications. This episode is particularly valuable for anyone newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who is navigating the complexities and concerns surrounding medication.Episode at a glance:Meet Rheumatologist & Researcher Dr. Glenn Hazelwood:Busting Myths About MedicationsChallenging Stigmas Around Advanced TreatmentsAddressing Misconceptions About Medication UseMedical 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 Crow, OT 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! 

Seth discusses the challenges and lessons learned from his condition, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and humor as coping mechanisms. He also reflects on the 25-year journey of Creaky Joints, which began as a simple idea to connect arthritis sufferers and has grown into a significant patient advocacy and support organization.Cheryl and Seth also discuss the importance of patient voices in research and healthcare policy, the role of advocacy in improving healthcare systems, and the power of community and proper information. This episode highlights the power of advocacy, sharing our stories and remembering you are not alone in your arthritis journey!Episode at a glance:Seth’s Diagnosis Journey: Seth shares his early diagnosis at age 13 with Spondyloarthropathy and how it shaped his perspective.Creaky Joints and Global Healthy Living Foundation Origins: How a simple idea to connect arthritis patients evolved into a major advocacy and support organization over 25 years.Coping Strategies: Cheryl and Seth bond over the value of self-advocacy, humor, and mindset in managing chronic illness.Patient Empowerment and Advocacy: Why patient voices matter in research, healthcare systems, and policy-making.The Power of Community: Cheryl and Seth discuss how connection and reliable information support well-being.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!

Cristina and Cheryl reflect on how RA has shaped their lives, and the deep sense of purpose they’ve found in supporting others on a similar path. They highlight the power of self-advocacy, the comfort of community, and the resilience it takes to live well with RA. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or alone in your diagnosis, this honest and empowering conversation will remind you: you’re not in this alone—and your voice matters.Episode at a glance:Christina’s Journey with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early symptoms and the relief of finally getting a diagnosis, coping with depression, chronic pain, and postpartum flare-ups,  and navigating treatment options and finding the right doctorThe Power of Self-Advocacy and Community: How this helped Cristina feel more empowered and supported while managing chronic illnessVolunteer Work and Advocacy: How Cristina’s journey with RA has led to her work with the Arthritis FoundationTurning pain into purpose: How RA has led both Cheryl and Cristina to have a passion for helping others and raising awarenessMedical 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! 

Cheryl, Marisa, Alice, Gittel, Meg and Annette reflect on the profound impact of community, the invaluable educational components, and the collective wisdom that has helped them cope and thrive. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, shared humor, and the supportive environment of the Rheum to THRIVE group, which empowers members to navigate their health challenges and advocate for themselves. Episode at a glance:Celebrating 5 Years of Thrive: Cheryl reflects on the origins of the Rheum to THRIVE program and members share how they found the group and what drew them in.Support Group as Lifeline: Members describe Rheum to THRIVE as a uniquely supportive and safe space that offers emotional validation, practical advice, and deep connection.Power of Peer Support & Representation: Cheryl and Rheum to Thrive members share how hearing others share similar stories helps members feel less alone and seeing others thrive with chronic illness is empowering and inspiring.Tools for Thriving: Members reference helpful resources like the THRIVE Framework, webinars, and guest speakers.The Joy of Community & Shared Identity: Cheryl and the Rheum to Thrive members discuss how inside jokes, celebrations, and shared experiences strengthen group bonds.Lasting Impact of the Program: The Rheum to Thrive members tell Cheryl that they pursued careers in counseling or advocacy inspired by their journey and that Rheum to Thrive supports lifelong learning and personal growth. They also reflect on how the group has helped members through isolation 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 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!

They clarify the differences between these terms and provide examples, such as the myth that only elderly people get arthritis, the stigma that people with arthritis are lazy, and the misconception that arthritis is merely mild joint pain. Eileen and Cheryl also emphasize the importance of education and self-advocacy and share personal experiences to illustrate how these misunderstandings can affect mental health. They also highlight resources for further learning and empowerment so you can help bust these myths and bring awareness to the true impact of rheumatic diseases. Episode at a glance:Defining Myths, Stigmas, and Misconceptions: Cheryl and Eileen define the myths, stigmas, and misconceptions related to rheumatic diseases.Personal Experiences with Misconceptions: Cheryl and Eileen delve into their personal experiences with misconceptions of rheumatic diseases. Addressing Stigmas: Cheryl and Eileen address stigmas often associated with rheumatic diseases.Common Myths About Rheumatic Diseases: Cheryl and Eileen discuss the common myths about rheumatic diseases.Impact on Mental Health: Cheryl and Eileen discuss how this topic affects mental health.Final Thoughts and Resources: Cheryl and Eileen highlight resources to help bust myths and bring awareness to rheumatic 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! 

Riley details her complex and often delayed diagnostic journey, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, and which treatments have worked best for her.  She also shares how she navigates daily life while living almost exclusively at home due to limited mobility and energy.Cheryl and Riley also discuss the adaptations and strategies Riley uses to manage her conditions and maintain her quality of life, including some special tips for RV living. Riley offers insights into finding peace in the moment, the importance of advocacy, and the reality of thriving in survival mode.  Riley challenges the traditional idea of what it means to thrive, redefining it as being present for micro-moments of connection, joy, or peace . Her story highlights both the physical toll of chronic illness and the emotional strength required to navigate a complex and often dismissive healthcare system.Episode at a glance:Riley's Diagnosis Journey:  Riley shares her journey with multiple autoimmune conditions, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome.Treatment Trials and Tribulations: Riley opens up about experiences of medical gaslighting and the emotional toll of being dismissed by providers.The Importance of Advocacy and Self-Care: Riley and Cheryl discuss the power of symptom tracking as a tool for validation and self-advocacy in healthcare.Daily Life Adaptations when you Don’t Leave Home Often: Riley shares her daily tools and strategies that work for her and her family.Finding Micro-Moments of Joy and Redefining Thriving: Riley redefines what it means to thrive—finding value in micro-moments of connection, joy, or stillness.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! 

In this candid intro episode, you’ll hear how they met online, bonded over the challenges of living with RA, and teamed up to make science-backed info more relatable and easier to understand. Their mission? To bust myths, share real stories, and offer practical tips to help you feel more in control of your health.Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone with RA, or work in healthcare, this podcast is here to empower you with insights that actually make a difference.Episode at a glance:Cheryl's and Eileens’s Journey with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Both Cheryl and Eileen share their journeys with RA.The Birth of Rheumer Has It Podcast: Cheryl and Eileen discuss how they first connected online through their advocacy work, which eventually led to the creation of Rheumer Has It.What to Expect from Rheumer Has It: Compact, information-dense content from Cheryl, Eileen, and experts. Debunking Myths and Misconceptions: Cheryl and Eileen discuss how this podcast will debunk myths and misconceptions about rheumatic diseases and spotlight scientific evidence in a down-to-earth, digestible format.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! 

They discuss the complexities of managing overlapping conditions and the importance of a strong support system. Alice highlights the invaluable support she receives from her family, friends, church community, and online groups. They also talk about the challenges of explaining chronic illness to others, dealing with unsolicited advice, and finding comfort in relationships. This episode serves as a guide for both patients and their loved ones on fostering understanding and meaningful support.Alice also discusses the significance of finding specialized support groups, such as the 'Rheum to Thrive' community, led by Cheryl. Both Cheryl and Alice stress the importance of open communication, patience, and understanding in building effective support systems. Episode at a glance:Alice's Health Journey: Alice shares her experience living with and navigating multiple chronic conditions such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.The Importance of Support from a Strong and Diverse Support System: Cheryl and Alice discuss the importance of support from family and friends, church community, and online support groups. Finding and Building Support Systems: Cheryl and Alice discuss Cheryl’s Rheum to Thrive Program and how a specialized community is valuable in building a support system.Dealing with Misunderstandings and Unsolicited Advice: Cheryl and Alice discuss how to maintain boundaries and navigate unsolicited advice.Reflections on Long-Term Relationships: Alice shares insights from over 50 years marriage.  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! 

They discuss practical strategies for rebuilding trust in your body, the critical role of understanding your core values, and how to find the right support — whether through programs like Rheum to Thrive or events like the Virtual Sjögren’s Summit. Together, they show how education, advocacy, and mindset shifts can help patients move from fear to confidence in managing their immune health.Episode at a glance:Sjogren’s and MCAS 101: what is Sjogren’s and MCAS?Dr. Kara Wada’s personal journey: Sjögren’s Disease and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and how it shaped her mission to empower patients.Understanding "Immune Confidence": learning to trust your body again after autoimmune and allergic disease diagnoses.The importance of patient advocacy and education: how Dr. Wada supports patients across multiple states through educational visits.Healthcare system issues: why are complex patients being given the short end of the stick, and what are some creative solutions?Upcoming events and opportunities: the Virtual Sjögren’s Summit and Cheryl’s evolving focus with Rheum to THRIVE.Finding balance between personal life and professional advocacy while living with chronic illness.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!