Episode 3 of the Arthritis Life podcast is now live on all major podcast players, and on the link in my profile!
In this episode, Cheryl interviews Claire, a young nonprofit professional, mom, and world traveler.
They discuss the MANY ways rheumatoid arthritis affected Claire’s career choice, pregnancy and parenting experiences, mental health, friendships, and more. She also discusses her rocky journey towards a diagnosis.
Claire has some stellar advice for newly diagnosed patients and constructive feedback for providers. This interview was conducted more like a casual conversation, and so you’ll also hear lots of Cheryl’s tips and experiences as well! It was recorded in 2019.
Here’s the episode breakdown by minute:
- 01:35 – Claire diagnosis journey for rheumatoid arthritis: difficulty being believed by providers through her official diagnosis and her journey towards accepting it
- 10:30 Claire’s pregnancy and childbirth experience
- 14:20 – Claires postpartum experience with RA coming back
- 16:20 – How Claire parents a Toddler with Rheumatoid Arthritis
- 18:15 Claire’s advice for people with RA who want to have a child
- 20:20 – How to Manage Stress and Anxiety with chronic illness, including tips for finding a good fit with a provider
- 26:40: Claire’s advice for newly diagnosed patients
- 30:10: What Claire wishes doctors did better
- 31:26: Claire’s tips for a good patient-provider relationship and tips for advocating for yourself
- 35:36: The Difference between living with an invisible illness and living with a visible one when Claire had to wear a splint!
- 38:55: How RA affected Claire’s choice of work, and her employment
- 41:42: How RA affected Claire’s relationship with her husband
- 44:00 – Fatigue and RA
- 45:44 – How RA affects friendships and relationships in adulthood
External resources mentioned in this episode:
Book: Suzie Edward May “Arthritis Pregnancy and the Path to Parenthood”
Mother to Baby – website for evidence based information for MEDs
Beginner’s Guide to LIFE with Rheumatoid Arthritis: the 4 week online program Cheryl created to educate and support people with rheumatoid arthritis. Registration is open from now through July 31st for the August course
