
Behind the Smile with Cheryl Crow
09/04/23 • 54 min
Welcome to Behind the Smile with Cheryl Crow!
Have you ever wondered how someone manages a bustling online presence while battling a chronic condition? Picture this: Cheryl Crow, a woman leading an active lifestyle, starts experiencing an array of symptoms that eventually lead her to a Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosis at age 21. Once a vibrant athlete, she noticed her weight drop, leading to her life-altering diagnosis.
Join us as we traverse Cheryl's journey managing her condition and online business, Arthritis Life. We delve deep into Cheryl's revolutionary 'Room to Thrive' framework. It's an approach to wellness inspired by occupational therapy and lifestyle medicine, where lifestyle factors like exercise, sleep, nutrition, stress management, and mental health walk hand in hand with medication. We also discuss social media's crucial role in connecting with others dealing with chronic conditions and the need for responsible online research.
The episode culminates with Cheryl recounting the tough times when her medication ceased working, leading her to accept her new reality. We explore the importance of therapy and technology in managing Arthritis and how Cheryl's 'Rheumm to Thrive,' framework can be invaluable for others in a similar situation. From the seriousness of the chronic illness, we switch gears to a light-hearted debate on the perfect family vacation spot - Maui, Kauai, or the chronic pain-friendly Oahu. So, lend your ears as we navigate through this enlightening journey of resilience, holistic wellness, and the power of embracing a mindfulness-based approach.
https://www.instagram.com/arthritis_life_cheryl/
https://thoughtful-experimenter-636.ck.page/1fb879479c
Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.
Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice
🎙 Living with a rare disease or chronic illness can feel isolating—but you are not alone. Find Your Rare is more than just a brand—it’s a movement. From empowering apparel to real, raw conversations, they’re here to remind you that your story matters. Because being RARE its your superpower. Explore, join & wear your rare with pride at FindYourRare.com
🎙 "Ever wanted to hug your autoimmune disease? Okay, maybe not—but with Giant Microbes, you totally can! These adorable microbes turn science into snuggles, featuring fun and educational designs of bacteria, viruses, and yes—even immune cells! They’re perfect for spoonies, medical professionals, or anyone who loves a quirky, cuddly take on health. Check out GiantMicrobes.com and find your new favorite pal today!"
Use code SPOONIE20 at checkout for 20% off!
Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSistershttps://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)
Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/
Discount Codes:
GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off
Welcome to Behind the Smile with Cheryl Crow!
Have you ever wondered how someone manages a bustling online presence while battling a chronic condition? Picture this: Cheryl Crow, a woman leading an active lifestyle, starts experiencing an array of symptoms that eventually lead her to a Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosis at age 21. Once a vibrant athlete, she noticed her weight drop, leading to her life-altering diagnosis.
Join us as we traverse Cheryl's journey managing her condition and online business, Arthritis Life. We delve deep into Cheryl's revolutionary 'Room to Thrive' framework. It's an approach to wellness inspired by occupational therapy and lifestyle medicine, where lifestyle factors like exercise, sleep, nutrition, stress management, and mental health walk hand in hand with medication. We also discuss social media's crucial role in connecting with others dealing with chronic conditions and the need for responsible online research.
The episode culminates with Cheryl recounting the tough times when her medication ceased working, leading her to accept her new reality. We explore the importance of therapy and technology in managing Arthritis and how Cheryl's 'Rheumm to Thrive,' framework can be invaluable for others in a similar situation. From the seriousness of the chronic illness, we switch gears to a light-hearted debate on the perfect family vacation spot - Maui, Kauai, or the chronic pain-friendly Oahu. So, lend your ears as we navigate through this enlightening journey of resilience, holistic wellness, and the power of embracing a mindfulness-based approach.
https://www.instagram.com/arthritis_life_cheryl/
https://thoughtful-experimenter-636.ck.page/1fb879479c
Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.
Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice
🎙 Living with a rare disease or chronic illness can feel isolating—but you are not alone. Find Your Rare is more than just a brand—it’s a movement. From empowering apparel to real, raw conversations, they’re here to remind you that your story matters. Because being RARE its your superpower. Explore, join & wear your rare with pride at FindYourRare.com
🎙 "Ever wanted to hug your autoimmune disease? Okay, maybe not—but with Giant Microbes, you totally can! These adorable microbes turn science into snuggles, featuring fun and educational designs of bacteria, viruses, and yes—even immune cells! They’re perfect for spoonies, medical professionals, or anyone who loves a quirky, cuddly take on health. Check out GiantMicrobes.com and find your new favorite pal today!"
Use code SPOONIE20 at checkout for 20% off!
Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSistershttps://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)
Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/
Discount Codes:
GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off
Previous Episode

Navigating Life with Grit and Grace
What does it mean to be a warrior? Today, I'm joined by Makenzie, a 22-year-old nursing student who embodies this term like no other. Battling Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis since age 13, Makenzie navigates the daily struggles of her own disease while also being a champion for her son Josiah, who has Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome, and her mother, who is fighting Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis. She offers a candid insight into the complexities of their journeys, from the agonizing search for a diagnosis to the treatments they undergo.
Have you ever felt unheard or misunderstood in a doctor's office? Makenzie knows this feeling all too well, and she's here to emphasize the importance of standing up for yourself and your loved ones. She shares her thoughts on advocating for early detection tests for autoimmune and autoinflammatory markers at birth - a simple measure that she believes could spare others from undue suffering.
Lastly, let's delve into Makenzie's resilience kit, her 'Spoonie Toolkit,' and how she maintains a positive outlook despite the trials she faces. We touch on the reality of parenting children with special needs, the invaluable importance of support, and maintaining a good attitude, no matter what. Whether you're personally affected by chronic illness or not, this conversation with Makenzie is sure to inspire and motivate you to face life's battles with grit and grace.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/cabrera-family-medical-funds?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customerhttps://linktr.ee/makenziecabrera
Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.
Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice
Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSistershttps://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)
Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/
Discount Codes:
GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off
Next Episode

Rising Above RA: Effie's Journey
What might you do if you had symptoms of a chronic condition at the tender age of 15 and diagnosed at 18? Well, our guest for this episode, Effie, turned her fight with juvenile arthritis into a platform for advocacy. Rising Above RA, as she is known in the digital world, sheds light on her journey from grappling with the emotional fallout of her diagnosis to finding her equilibrium. Join us as she opens up about her high school years wrapped in pain, her journey of managing imbalances within her body, and the catharsis of writing.
Imagine having a specially curated 'Spoonie Toolkit' - what would you put in it? As we chat with Effie, not only do we explore this idea, but we also dive into the realm of personalized treatment plans. We delve into the importance of self-care while juggling chronic conditions and the role of writing in Effie's RA journey. We share some of our favorite book recommendations and ponder on how positivity can manifest differently for each individual.
In the world of chronic illness, inspiration and support are vital. But how do you balance encouragement with sensitivity? How do you access reliable information while avoiding information overload? As our conversation with Effie continues, we emphasize the importance of following organizations that provide reliable resources. We also discuss the value of a robust support system and the challenge of finding a healthcare provider that truly resonates with your personal journey—strap in as we navigate through the highs and lows of living with arthritis.
https://linktr.ee/effiekoliopoulos?fbclid=PAAaYLMG9-Ch1N_dwqJ8j3yJ3LB5oCl5Kl876LCN2CR-_BX0Rqu5WJLBU5g7Q_aem_AWecvW_yL-iGCAPPXnHJnTAd89bHmypDpqz6XeGyLSJCZECZM-rxILkKC-b4gPuRZ-A
Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.
Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice
Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSistershttps://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)
Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/
Discount Codes:
GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off
My Spoonie Sisters - Behind the Smile with Cheryl Crow
Transcript
Hi my spoony sisters . I am your host , Gracefully Jen , and I am so freaking excited because I have Cheryl Crow in the house , the one , the only . Hi , Cheryl , how are you ?
CherylI'm great . Thank you so much for having me .
JenOh my gosh , I'm so excited , like in our community , it's like you're our cel
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