Welcome to a new chapter of The Chronic Brew! In this pivotal episode, we’re expanding our focus beyond Chronic Kidney Disease to embrace the entire chronic illness community.

Join us as I share the personal story behind this rebrand and reveal why this is so much bigger than my own journey. We dive into the staggering global impact and economic burden of non-communicable diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Then, we bring the conversation home to a struggle so many of us know too well: chronic fatigue. I introduce the powerful Spoon Theory as a tool for managing limited energy and offer a raw, personal reflection on what living with an unpredictable body truly feels like.

Whether you live with a chronic illness or support someone who does, this episode is for you. Tune in to feel seen, understood, and part of a bigger conversation.

Episode Highlights:

• The personal reason behind the podcast's rebrand.

• The global and economic impact of common chronic illnesses.

• A deep dive into what chronic fatigue truly feels like.

• How to use the Spoon Theory to manage your energy.

• A raw reflection on the emotional toll of living with CKD.

#ChronicIllness #ChronicFatigue #SpoonTheory #CKD #Podcast #Health #Wellness

Join us on this episode of The Chronic Brew as we sit down with the amazing Michelle, the creator behind Hobbies for Broken Bodies. Michelle's journey with multiple chronic illnesses—including Chiari Malformation, POTS, EDS, and gastroparesis—has taught her the incredible power of finding purpose through creativity. We'll explore how she’s blended humor and advocacy to build a vibrant online community, the unexpected lessons she's learned along the way, and how a creative outlet can truly be a lifeline. Plus, Michelle shares her experience writing for The Mighty and what she wishes others understood about living with chronic illness. Get ready for a conversation that's honest, inspiring, and full of heart.

Links:

• Follow Michelle on Instagram: [@hobbiesforbrokenbodies]

• Follow The Chronic Brew on Instagram: [@mrcoolbeans2889]

• Read Michelle's article on The Mighty: [https://themighty.com/topic/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-symptoms-invisible-instagram/ ]

If you love someone battling a chronic illness, this episode is for you. In Part 2 of our series, we shift our focus to the other side of the battle: the caregivers, family, and friends who provide an essential lifeline.

This episode is your compass, a guide to helping without getting lost yourself. We'll share actionable advice on:

• How to Validate: Learn the difference between comforting words and truly validating your loved one's feelings.

• The Power of Practical Support: Find out how specific acts of service can mean more than any words.

• Educating Yourself: Discover how understanding the illness makes you a stronger advocate and ally.

This journey is a shared one. Join us as we equip the support system with the tools they need to stand strong for the ones they love.

Don't forget to listen to Part 1: The Patient's Toolbox for insight into the patient's perspective, and follow Mr. Cool Beans (mrcoolbeans2889) on Instagram to become part of our community.