In this episode of Take a Pain Check, host Natasha sits down with Stacey Ivits, Registered Social Worker, advocate, and author of Navigating Your Vasculitis Journey. Stacey shares her journey living with vasculitis and Crohn’s disease, highlighting the realities of medical trauma, body image challenges, and the emotional impact of chronic illness.We discuss:
Why body image and disordered eating need more recognition in chronic illness careStacey’s story reminds us that chronic illness affects both body and mind and that healing also means advocacy, community, and education.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc...Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ / takeapaincheck_ / takeapaincheck / take-a-pain-check / @takeapaincheck / takeapaincheck https://www.x.com/takeapaincheckStacey's socials:LinkedIn: Stacey Ivits, Facebook: Stacey Ivits, Instagram: @staceyivitsmswrsw
At 28, Michael Santillo was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis after years of unexplained pain that made even simple tasks like putting on socks or driving which became nearly impossible. Instead of letting it define him, he turned his journey into an inspiring mission: founding the annual “Let’s Get Loud for AS” gala.
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we talk about:
- His road to diagnosis and the symptoms he faced
- The mental and physical health challenges that followed
- How AS impacted his relationships and love life
- The creation and growth of “Let’s Get Loud for AS”
Whether you’re living with AS, supporting someone who is, or just looking for inspiration, Michael’s story is a reminder that even in life’s toughest moments, there’s room to create change.
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In this episode, we explore the legal landscape surrounding injury, illness, and chronic pain. Personal injury lawyer Shane Katz joins us to unpack the most common misconceptions about personal injury law, the truth behind medical malpractice claims, and the importance of compassionate legal representation. We discuss how the legal system can serve as a tool for empowerment—especially for those navigating complex medical conditions—and what patients need to know when dealing with insurance companies and systemic healthcare failures. Shane shares stories from his practice and offers practical advice on when to seek legal help, how to advocate for yourself, and why justice matters just as much as healing.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch... https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-...https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Maggie Douglas opens up about her complex journey living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Fibromyalgia, and PCOS. She walks us through the physical and emotional challenges of early symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and navigating the transition from pediatric to adult rheumatology care.This week also features something a little different: a conversation about the short film Fibro and the New Me. Maggie shares her reactions to the portrayal of fibromyalgia on screen, reflects on the importance of accurate representation, and unpacks how media can both validate and educate. From support systems to self-discovery, this episode is a candid exploration of resilience, identity, and what it really means to find yourself in the midst of chronic illness. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Maggie's socials: IG - mdouglas0423, FB/Linkedin - Maggie DouglasOur socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ / takeapaincheck_ / takeapaincheck / take-a-pain-check / @takeapaincheck / takeapaincheck https://www.x.com/takeapaincheck
In this powerful episode of Take a Pain Check, we sit down with Mya Barnett, a driven and inspiring young woman living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Diagnosed at just 11 years old, Mya shares the reality of growing up with a chronic illness, how it shaped her confidence, impacted her daily life, and led to major decisions like undergoing jaw surgery. From navigating school accommodations and finding community at IWK summer camp, to becoming a camp counsellor and launching a homemade soap line for psoriasis. She also opens up about her experience travelling to Europe with Global Brigades Canada and managing her condition on the go.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck
What happens when you’re diagnosed with the same illness you once watched a friend silently suffer through? In this powerful episode of the Take a Pain Check Podcast, Natasha sits down with Macenzie Rebelo, who shares how Lupus reshaped her life, relationships, and sense of self. From juggling university and dating to confronting stigma and learning to speak up, Macenzie reveals the unfiltered truth behind living with a chronic illness and how writing became her rebellion. Don’t miss this raw, honest, and unexpectedly empowering conversation. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch... https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-...https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we’re joined by @DrAndreaFurlan , a physician, researcher, educator, and YouTube star who is transforming the way we understand and approach chronic pain. From her early days studying medicine in Brazil to becoming one of Canada’s foremost pain experts, Dr. Furlan shares her personal journey with chronic pain, explains the differences between nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain, and uncovers why so many patients are misdiagnosed and what we can do about it. We also explore the inspiration behind her latest book, the impact of her viral YouTube content, and how she makes cutting-edge science accessible and empowering for patients worldwide. Register for our in person event here by May 18: https://forms.gle/tWdabTbta8ZYeieb8Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Dr. Furlan's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@DrAndreaFurlan instagram.com/dr.andrea.furlan twitter.com/adfurlan facebook.com/dr.andrea.furlanOur socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck#chronicpain #chronicpaindoc #doctor #education #pain #opioids
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we are joined by the Jenna Kedy, a passionate advocate living with Juvenile Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. We dive deep into Jenna’s diagnosis journey, navigating school and childhood with a chronic illness, and the challenges of finding proper pediatric care. Jenna opens up about learning to advocate for herself, balancing a busy life of advocacy, volunteering, and pageantry, and the realities of managing pain and flare-ups. We also explore the differences in healthcare systems across Canada, her work with IMPaCT Trials mentoring researchers, and her inspiring role as a Youth Board Member and Youth Ambassador at Take a Pain Check.Register for our in person event here by April 27th: https://forms.gle/tWdabTbta8ZYeieb8Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Jenna's socials:Instagram: _missjennak_ LinkedIn: Jenna Kedy Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.comhttps://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, our host Natasha introduces our guest Dr Erica Lawson. Dr. Erica Lawson is a pediatric rheumatologist and Program Director for the UCSF Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship. We dive into her journey in medicine, passion for pediatric rheumatology, and the challenges young patients face—from diagnosis to transitioning to adult care. Dr. Lawson shares insights on parental involvement, health disparities, and the importance of collaboration in healthcare. She also discusses balancing family life with a demanding career. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes.Register for our in person event here: https://forms.gle/tWdabTbta8ZYeieb8Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:Website: www.takeapaincheck.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch...Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec...X: https://x.com/takeapaincheckLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take...#arthritis
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Natasha is joined by the inspiring Sahara as she shares her journey of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. They dive into the challenges of getting a diagnosis amid uncertainty, navigating university while managing a chronic illness, and finding the right resources for understanding RA.Sahara opens up about how her south Asian background influenced her family’s understanding of her condition and how she worked to create a supportive space for herself and others who are immunocompromised. She also talk about the importance of setting boundaries, adapting to unexpected challenges while traveling, and lifestyle changes that help her manage flares. Beyond her health journey, Sahara shares her passion for writing and gives us insight into her two books—Love Letters to Myself, a heartfelt collection of poetry on love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, and Reflections, which explores themes of heritage, culture, and love. She leaves us with valuable advice for students managing a rheumatic disease and reflects on what she would tell her younger self when she was first diagnosed.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:Website: www.takeapaincheck.comInstagram: / takeapaincheck_ Tiktok: / takeapainchec. .X: https://x.com/takeapaincheckLinkedin: / take-a-pain-check Sahara’s socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missbrainyb...Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Natasha sits down with Brandon Volesky to explore his journey with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)—from being diagnosed at just two years old to navigating the challenges of childhood, overcoming stigma, and adapting his mindset to thrive as a husband, father, and professional. Brandon shares how his fear of medication affected his condition, how he ultimately embraced treatment, and how he transitioned from aspiring chef to becoming a Software and Data Engineer at H&R Block’s Machine Learning Lab. We dive into his work in AI and healthcare, his involvement with CARRA, and his passion for improving childhood rheumatology research. Through his lived experience, Brandon is leveraging machine learning and data science to transform healthcare and support better treatment options for future generations. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincheckApply to our scholarship today: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/schola...Apply for our NEW paid youth and young adult support program: https://forms.gle/W3ciBhG89eAH8QvS8Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials: Website: www.takeapaincheck.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec...X: https://x.com/takeapaincheckLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check/Brandon's socials: www.linkedin.com/in/bvoleskyCARRA: https://carragroup.org/Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, host Natasha welcomes Stella Miller to share her journey with Juvenile Arthritis. Stella opens up about her early symptoms, the challenges of receiving a diagnosis, and the impact of medications like methotrexate and Orencia. She reflects on navigating friendships, advocating for her needs, and the support system that has helped her along the way. Stella also discusses the emotional toll of stepping away from basketball, a sport she loved, and how she found new purpose beyond the court. From her advocacy work with MUSC to modeling with a chronic illness, she shares how she’s reshaped her identity and continues to inspire others. Apply to our scholarship today: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/scholarship Apply for our NEW paid youth and young adult support program: https://forms.gle/W3ciBhG89eAH8QvS8 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes. Our socials: Website: www.takeapaincheck.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck?lang=en X: https://x.com/takeapaincheck Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check/ Stella's socials: Instagram & TikTok @Stellamiller71
Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this week’s Take a Pain Check episode, we’re joined by Abigail Meyers, who shares her journey of living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and Cerebral Palsy. Abigail opens up about the challenges of receiving a diagnosis, navigating symptoms, and overcoming medical gaslighting. We dive into the emotional and social impact of growing up with a chronic illness, her passion for theatre and writing, and how she balances these pursuits with her condition. Abigail also discusses her experiences with accessibility, advocacy, and the importance of affordable healthcare. Apply to our scholarship today: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/schola... Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes. Our socials: Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec... X: https://x.com/takeapaincheck Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check Abigail's socials: Instagram and X: @abigaillmeyers Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Natasha chats with Carroll Meilleur, an advocate for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and senior member of True North Disability Services. Carroll shares her journey from dentistry to advocacy, discussing DTC eligibility, benefits, misconceptions, application tips, and support for individuals with rheumatic diseases. She highlights the importance of advocacy, shares success stories, and offers practical advice for navigating the DTC process. Tune in to learn how Carroll is making a difference in accessibility and support for those in need. Apply to our scholarship today: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/schola... Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes. Our socials: Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ Instagram: / takeapaincheck_ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec... X: https://x.com/takeapaincheck Linkedin: / take-a-pain-check Carrol's socials: Website: www.tnds.ca Instagram: / truenorthdisabilityservices Facebook: / tnds.ca Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this week’s episode of Take a Pain Check, Kate Bourne shares her powerful journey with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), discussing the 12-year delay in her diagnosis and the profound impact it had on her confidence, mobility, and academic life. Kate reflects on the emotional toll of not having answers for so long, navigating school and daily life with unexplained symptoms. She also highlights her passion for research, focusing on anesthetic resistance in EDS patients and the relationship between EDS and POTS, with the goal of improving healthcare practices for those affected by these conditions. As a 2024 recipient of the STEM Without Limits scholarship, Kate shares how she plans to use the funds to further her academic and research endeavors, offering advice to young adults about finding their career paths. Apply to our scholarship today: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/scholarship Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes. Our socials: Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck?lang=en X: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ Likedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check/ Kate's socials: Instagram and X: @katebournebsc Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this milestone 100th episode, Natasha sits down with her siblings, Natalia and Nikhil, to reveal the raw, real, and unfiltered moments behind living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. From the first signs of JIA to the highs and lows of family life, this episode unveils how her siblings stood by her side, the unexpected challenges they faced together, and how JIA transformed each of their lives. Discover the secrets to strong family bonds, the power of sibling support, and life lessons you won’t hear anywhere else!
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Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we sit down with Shanesha Scott, who shares her inspiring journey with polymyositis. Shanesha opens up about her diagnosis, treatment challenges, and how she navigates the emotional and physical changes brought on by her condition. We discuss her work as an industrial and organizational psychologist and the impact of workplace dynamics on employee morale and success. Shanesha also talks about her two books, When I Got Sick – A Story of Tragedy & Triumph and Birthing the Leader Within You, offering advice on balancing health, career, and personal growth. Don’t miss this empowering conversation! Join our joint chat rheum: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/regis... Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes. Our socials: Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch... Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec... X: https://x.com/takeapaincheck Likedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take... Shanesha's socials: Instagram: Shanesha__ TikTok: Beauty4RMAshes Facebook: Shanesha & Beauty 4RM Ashes Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Natasha sits down with Kent Messner, who shares his inspiring journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from childhood to adulthood. Kent discusses his early diagnosis, the challenges he faced using crutches during middle and high school, and the impact of bullying on his self-esteem. He reflects on his time in a rehabilitation center, his pursuit of education, including an undergraduate degree and an MBA, and how his experiences shaped his career at Penn Medicine. Kent also shares practical tools and strategies he uses to manage his condition daily, from surgeries to physical therapy and chiropractic care. Throughout the conversation, Kent emphasizes the importance of advocacy and support, offering valuable advice to young people with disabilities. His story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in embracing differences and the importance of community in navigating life with a chronic illness.
In this episode of Take a Pain Check; Sharan Singh shares her journey of living with multiple chronic illnesses, including Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, and others. Sharan delves into her diagnosis story, detailing the symptoms that led her to seek help, her experiences with Western and regenerative medicine, and the impact these treatments have had on her quality of life. She also opens up about the challenges of maintaining relationships, navigating academics, and undergoing a hip replacement, while emphasizing the importance of mental health and lifestyle changes in managing chronic illness. Additionally, Sharan discusses her path to becoming a physician assistant and her advocacy work on TikTok, where she shares her story to educate and support others in the chronic illness community.
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Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara
Joel Nelson, a passionate advocate in the rheumatic disease community, shares his journey with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) on the podcast. He discusses the challenges of obtaining a diagnosis and the importance of self-advocacy, especially from a young age. He reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of medication trials and their effects on mental health, emphasizing the stigma surrounding both physical and mental aspects of chronic illness for men. Joel also explores the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare access and his personal life, including parenting with arthritis. He discusses having no transition, experiences in the clinic which impacted his mental health, and the change in health care system over time in the UK. His initiatives, like the Joel Nelson Podcast and the Pain Company, show his commitment to patient-centered care and community support, making him an inspiring voice in chronic illness advocacy. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes. Our socials: Website: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ Instagram: / takeapaincheck_ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec... X: https://x.com/takeapaincheck?mx=2 Likedin: / take-a-pain-check Joel's socials: Facebook/IG/Twitter/YouTube/Twitch: @JoelvsArthritis Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara