Episodes

Total Knee Replacement at 45: What Recovery Really Looked Like Ali shares the full story behind her total knee replacement, including why she needed it so young, what surgery and recovery were actually like, and what she wishes she had done differently. This episode is especially useful for anyone weighing a knee replacement while also managing chronic pain or an inflammatory condition. In this episode, Ali breaks down the layered history behind her knee damage, the realities of surgery day, an...

The emotional reality of rheumatoid arthritis surgeries at 47 Ali shares the lived experience of navigating rheumatoid arthritis as a mother, including hand surgeries, a total knee replacement, and the emotional toll of losing independence during recovery. This episode is as much about mindset, grief, and self-forgiveness as it is about the procedures themselves. In this solo episode, she walks through what led to each surgery, why she delayed treatment for years, and how that choice affected h...

Today I am updating you on where I stand with my health insurance issue and how that has translated to life today - flares in all!

If you've ever left a doctor's appointment feeling rushed, unheard, or unsure what just happened, this episode is for you. Living with an autoimmune disease often means navigating specialists, insurance companies, medications, lab work, and appointments that can feel overwhelming. But what if there were simple ways to become a more empowered patient? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Terry Adirim, former Chief Medical Officer for the U.S. Military Health System, emergency physician, healthc...

Ali Atwell shares her ongoing health insurance disaster, including denial of insurance coverage for her rheumatologist treatments, missed infusions, and the financial burden on her family. She also discusses upcoming guest Terry Adirim and the broken medical system. Takeaways Health insurance denial can lead to missed treatments and financial burden Bridging the gap in healthcare is essential for patients with complex medical needs Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Health Insurance Disaster ...

Jenna Schutt shares her journey of being diagnosed with systemic mastocytosis and the impact it had on her life as a mother. She discusses the challenges of treatment, the role of faith in coping, and the development of a relationship with God. Jenna emphasizes the importance of self-worth and finding joy in the midst of adversity. Jenna Schutt shares her journey of finding true joy and peace through faith, even in the midst of health challenges and survivorship. She emphasizes the importance of...

The conversation covers the challenges of parenting with chronic illness, including the impact on pregnancy, postpartum flares, and the importance of modeling self-care for children. It also delves into the experience of early symptoms and diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, as well as the communication of chronic illness to children. The conversation covers the importance of self-care, parenting with chronic illness, and practical parent survival tips. It emphasizes the need for support and comm...

The conversation covers Thy Da's journey with an autoimmune diagnosis, the impact of the diagnosis on her life, and the lifestyle changes and stress management techniques she implemented to manage her condition and improve her well-being. The conversation delves into the impact of mindset on healing and the role of trauma in autoimmune diseases. It also explores the influence of health challenges on parenting and the importance of seizing the present moment. Follow Thy Da on Facebook Takeaways ...

The conversation delves into the fear associated with starting a new medication or treatment, the loss of control and trust, information overload, and the use of mindset shift and affirmations to manage fear. Takeaways Fear of starting a medication or treatment Managing fear through mindset and affirmations Chapters 00:00 The Fear of Starting Medication or Treatment 09:44 Information Overload and Decision-Making

The conversation explores the experiences of the daughters of a mother with a chronic illness, highlighting the emotional impact, coping mechanisms, and family dynamics. It delves into the challenges, empathy, and personal growth resulting from the mother's health condition, providing valuable insights for families facing similar situations. The conversation delves into the impact of chronic illness on family dynamics, highlighting empathy, understanding, and the challenges faced by both the aff...

In this episode, I shares my personal journey of navigating life with autoimmune disease, focusing on managing seasonal changes, lowering expectations, simplifying daily life, prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, finding levity, and embracing joy and gratitude. I try to emphasize the importance of self-care (and what that looks like for me), managing energy levels, and finding joy in difficult seasons. Takeaways Managing seasonal changes with autoimmune disease Prioritizing self-care a...

The conversation explores the challenges of adapting to motherhood while living with chronic illness, the importance of managing expectations and communication, redefining motherhood and self-care, and the value of connecting with others in similar situations. It provides insights into the experiences of mothers navigating the complexities of chronic illness and parenting, offering valuable perspectives and coping strategies. Takeaways Adapting to motherhood with chronic illness Managing expe...

Penny shares her journey of living with autoimmune diseases, including misdiagnoses, trauma, and the impact of Lyme disease. She also discusses the approach of functional medicine and the challenges of testing for Lyme disease. The conversation delves into the misclassification of autoimmune diseases, particularly the misdiagnosis of Lyme disease as other autoimmune conditions. It also explores the impact of stress on autoimmune health and the importance of finding a supportive community. Additi...

Overcoming Autoimmune and Neuropsychiatric Challenges: A Mom’s Personal Journey In this heartfelt episode, CC shares her extensive journey navigating her children's complex health conditions, including autoimmune encephalitis and PANS/PANDAS, and her own health battles. Her story highlights the importance of trusting gut instincts, persistent testing, and building a supportive community. Key Topics: The long, winding journey of diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis and PANS/PANDAS Recognizing s...

Rebecca shares her journey of living with autoimmune disease, from the challenges of diagnosis and pregnancy complications to the emotional impact and coping with stress. She discusses the role of faith, trust in God, and the miracles she experienced. The invisible challenges of motherhood with an autoimmune disease are also explored, along with the current health challenges Rebecca is facing. Rebecca shares her journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis, discussing the impact on her daily life...

The conversation covers the Tetyana's escape from war and immigration experience, the impact of stress on autoimmune disease, and the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune disease. Each chapter explores a significant aspect of the her journey, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced and the resilience displayed. We cover the personal health journey and treatment of autoimmune diseases, the impact on family and parenting, and the importance of lifestyle changes and gratitude in mana...

The Autoimmune Mom podcast explores the hidden struggles of motherhood with autoimmune disease, addressing the challenges, guilt, and isolation faced by mothers. It emphasizes the need for self-compassion, honest communication, and building a support system. Takeaways Hidden struggles of motherhood Self-compassion and honest communication Chapters 00:00 Honest Communication and Accepting Help

Ali Atwell, a mother living with rheumatoid arthritis, shares her experiences and hopes to provide hope and community for others in similar situations. She discusses her diagnosis, challenges, and the impact of the disease on her life and family. Takeaways Hope and community for mothers with autoimmune diseases The impact of rheumatoid arthritis on motherhood Chapters 00:00 Motherhood and Family Support