WORD!

In this heartfelt episode, in recognition of World Young Rheumatic Diseases Day, Katy interviews Debbie on the realities of parenting a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (a type of inflammatory arthritis), offering personal insights and reflections.

The conversation begins with personal updates, including Katy’s reflections on imposter syndrome and the differences between shame and guilt. Debbie shares her recent fibromyalgia diagnosis and the challenges of managing medications, fatigue, and brain fog.

As the discussion unfolds, Debbie speaks candidly aboutthe reason she didn’t want to have children when she was younger, but how the conversation with her rheumatologist at university changed her mind. Then sharing the guilt andthe emotional weight of her daughter’s JIA diagnosis, the overwhelming medical appointments, and the impact on family dynamics. She shares the strategies she has developed to stay organised, create a strong support system, and foster resilience within her family.

Despite the challenges, Debbie highlights the importance of open communication, honesty, and allowing others, especially her husband, to be more involved. The value of a support network that get what you are going through. The episode concludes with an uplifting message of hope, encouragement, and practical advice for other parents navigating similar experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Managing a Parent’s & Child’s Health: Debbie opens up about her own struggles with IA andfibromyalgia while supporting her daughter’s JIA journey.

• The Power of Organisation: Keeping track of appointments, treatments, and paperwork is essential for managing a child’s chronic illness.

• The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis: Feelings of guilt and worry are common, but building a strong support network helps ease the burden.

• Resilience & Positivity: Open communication and embracing support from loved ones can make a difference in managing long-term conditions.

Resources & Links:

• NHS link for Fibromyalgia

• Sign up for our newsletter at inflammatoryarthritis.org

• Follow us on social media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky

• Stay tuned for next week’s Q&A session—submit your questions now!

If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow the series. And please do leave us a rating or a review, if you have a few minutes to do so, thank you.

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

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