a patient story: Recent Episodes
Daniel
Natural and Holistic Medicine continues to grow globally for one simple reason..it gets results. We have conversations with patients that have achieved success by using natural medicines and holistic practitioners presenting cases.
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Health is wealth. In this episode Dr Iggy Soosay (driggysoosay.com.au) shares is expansve knowledge and experience on how to maximise your health potential at all stages of life. You are never too young or too old to reframe your approach towards ageing well (without a fistful of medicatons)
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Psoriasis is a skin condition that can be socially debilitating. About a third of people with psoriasis develop a related form of arthritis which can also be physically limiting. Whilst there are a number of medical interventions that can reduce or control symptoms for some people, they generally have limited success. Psoriasis is a condition that responds best to a holistic approach including the management of diet, stress and microbial balance. In this episode Naturopath Helen Christian will help you to understand the process over a 20 year journey with her client Lista.
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If itching skin, redness, vaginal discharge, brain fog. bloating and general exhaustion sound familiar you may have a common fungal infection; candida albicans. Sometimes some antifungal agents offer temporary relief but unless you make big changes to your diet it will always come back. Chronic candida can impact how you want to live your life. Our guest Ricki Heller discusses how she beat it. If you need inspiration listen in..
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Rebecca Huntley is a well known Australian author ( her MDMA memoir is 'Sassafras') and social analyst who has described herself as a "good girl. " She was brought up in a dysfunctional family and had it tough. After years of therapy she decided to try MDMA which at the time was not approved for therapy. It transformed her. This is an intriguing story of endless possibility and hope.
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Forever chemicals, electronic smog, and processed foods commonly make mainstream news, but most people dont realise the implications. Scientists and holistic clinicians understand that all of the environmental factors and processed food chemicals create an increasing toxic load and are associated with inflammatory processess, changes to the gut flora and chronic disease. The emerging evidence that toxic exposure is enormously damaging to human reproduction is just frightening. Since the 1930's the quantity and quality of sperm has plummeted by over 70%. Sperm activity is highly sensitive to change making it the perfect Canary in the Coal Mine. In this episode Doctor and researcher Giselle Cooke discusses what can be done to assist male fertility.
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Medicinal cannabis is hot in the media and the business community. With the rush to market is there enough education of and understanding by health professionals? Naturopath Zoe Turner works in a multidisciplinary centre (Salt Recovery) which supports clients trying to break their addiction to prescribed and non-prescribed cannabis. We are joined by her client Bailey to better understand the issue first hand. With the rising concern of mental health issues together with the growing number of medicinal cannabis prescriptions this is not an episode to miss.
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It is generally well accepted that our mind controls our nervous system and overall health. Many eastern philosophies and western medicines support this approach. However there is also another way, by training the nervous system to teach the mind. In this episode Tanja Degitz found relief from her intractable pain by using Trauma Informed techniques.
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Hypnotherapy is a powerful therapeutic tool with broad application. As a teenager Craig Meriwether discovered its potential which helped him through a difficult mental period. He explains how hypnotherapy can leverage the power of self healing in a safe and effective manor.
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When Hippocrates (400 BC) said 'Let thy food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food' he was really in tune with good medical practise. In this episode we speak with Jocelyn whose thryoid habitually became overactive only when pregnant. The prescribed drugs made matters worse. Her Naturopath made a dietary change that completely resolved her problem and saved the life of her unborn child.
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Life would be boring if we were all the same. However, neurodivergent people often feel the pressure to be "normal" and it takes its toll. The burnout rate is double that of neurotypical individuals.
Paula Liub (https://paula-mindfulness.com/) is a neurodivergent psychologist who discusses her personal journey.
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Happy, healthy and connected to depressed, detached and suicidal in the blink of an eye.
Lynette Milakovich had her C19 jab and could not understand how her life changed for the worse so quickly. Her family supported her, but no one believed her until one doctor provided the hard evidence. With a confirmed cause, Lynette was able to hunt for a treatment and when she found it, the results were spectacular.
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Q: Can natural and holistic therapies assist people with significant genetic disorders?
A: Absolutely!
Working closely with Naturopath Christine Barnes, our young patient has avoided being wheelchair bound and is joining his peers by participating in the school athletics carnival.
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Dr John Tickell realised early in his medical career that good food and exercise was what many of his patients needed. Then, as a young doctor he was faced with a life threatening situation himself. Fortunately, many years of wholesome eating and good lifestyle choices significantly improved his chance of survival. Decades later he continues on his mission to make us all more resilient by the choices we make.
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Cancer survivors often have a deep seated fear that the disease will return. Martin Gillespie (www.gemwellnesswarrior.com.au ) significantly reduced the return risk of his non-hodgkins lymphoma which has an extremely high rate of recurrance by changing his diet, lifestyle and mindset.
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Medical fertility procedures typically include giving oestrogen. Anna Paredes, a colon hydrotherapist has found that excess oestrogen can find its way to the bowel where it causes problems such as constipation. Anna and her client Sam discuss the rationale behind hydrating the bowel to fascilitate oestrogen clearance.
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"Complicated" is an understatement when describing Dr Shala Rasouli's patient. In a short few years she had gone through aggressive breast cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, pneumonia, brochiectasis, hiatus hernia, melanoma, SIBO and migraines. Is there a common thread and how do you find it? Where do you start? How do you treat? Dr Rasouli's discoveries are better than any TV detective show.
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Mental trauma and anguish can end well or very badly, but what determines the direction you go in? Michael Adamedes (www.michaeladamedes.com) is a psychotherapist who describes how his relationship breakdown ultimately changed the course of his life for the better. He now helps others understand and re-evaluate those hurdles that all of us are confronted by at some point in our lives. Michael discusses his personal experience, helpful techniques and psychedelic substances.
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Bleeding from your backside can be frightening but haemorrhaging to the point of collapse is a whole new level. Common conditions like haemorrhoids are widely experienced and usually relate to poor diet and inadequate exercise. Some medical procedures such as radiation for prostate cancer can breakdown the blood rich tissue in the rectum and cause significant distress. In this case, basic dietary advice together with a tailor made herbal blend from the Naturopath had an outstandingly positive result. .
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As a successful and experienced registered dietician Rocco knows that eating more fibre is important for bowel movement. But as he discovered some-times it's just not enough. Severe constipation is distressing and there are many causes and considerations. His journey involved experimentation and discovery. With 20% of the population experiencing constipation, this episode will get you going.
Rob Prior has a highly trained scientific and curious mind. When diagnosed with kidney cancer he applied his logic and intuition and decided to reject all standard cancer treatment. Rob chose to relentlessly pursue a holistic approach. He really wanted to live well and keep his kidney. 11 years later Rob loves telling his story and devotes his time to coaching others. Have a listen and think about what it would take for you to follow your own path to health.
When MS (Multiple Sclerosis) patient Jana visited Naturopath Helen Christian, she was in a terrible state. With limited mobility, insomnia, depression and deep seated anger Jana felt like she was a burden to her family and society. Within a couple of weeks Jana's life did a 180 degree turn and she now feels amazing and has become the valuable contributor she yearned to be. How did Helen and Jana accomplish this?
When Ash was 21 years old she was told that the cause of her chronic cystitis was unknown so she'd have to "keep taking antibiotics and avoid sex forever." Her sister Melissa made a bet with the Homeopath that helped Ash and changed Melissa's life.
Iron deficiency anaemia is extremely common affecting around 20% of the world’s population including 8% of preschool children, 12% of pregnant women and 15% of non-pregnant women of reproductive age. Iron deficiency without anaemia is 3 times more common yet remains under-recognised and undertreated. The symptoms across both groups are many but include fatigue, weakness and irritability. Taking iron supplements is first line treatment, but may not always bring success. Evidence demonstrates that holistic gut health and iron absorption are inseparable. Naturopath Di Strang and her client Natalie Chapman bring the point home in this episode “The return of Iron Woman.”
All of us have a history full of happy, sad and embarrassing events. Some more traumatic than others. How we carry the emotions attached to those moments can impact our health and ability to thrive. Dr Michelle Woolhouse, an experienced integrative doctor is passionate about helping her patients understand and appreciate their emotions. Tune in for one of our most enlightening episodes so far where Dr Woolhouse gives her patient the tools and teaches her how to dig for the roots that hold back her ability to heal.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be extremely debilitating for some people. It can limit their opportunities in education and employment and fundamentally reduces enjoyment in life. In this episode holistic clinical psychologist Dr Adrian Lopresti discusses a case whereby using specific strategies and lifestyle changes brought back hope. An important demonstration for sufferers and carers.
When someone you know or love has received "bad news," your response makes an enormous difference to them. Sharni Hartley was a young woman diagnosed with cancer who wants to let us know what people said to bring her comfort. There's also a few tips in this conversation on what not to say. Sharni also found her tribe with an organisation called Cancer Chicks who cater for young women with cancer : www.https://www.cancerchicks.org.au/
'You have aggressive breast cancer' are not the words you want to hear; ever. However Christina's Naturopath, Oncologist and family backed by her unshakable faith got her through faster than expected with relatively minimal trauma. By working together the possibilities are endless.
The rate of autoimmune disease has doubled over the last decade now impacting 10% of the population. Medications work for many but the side-effects can be significant. Humans and parasites (Helminths) have had a symbiotic relationship forever. In our quest for hygeine we have changed our relationship for the worst. Is it time to invite 'old friends' back into our world. This episode screams yes.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is common. Often it is passed off as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or chronic indigestion or food intolerances or even allergies. As the gut is intimately associated with so many body systems it is expected that symptoms can be broad and not fitting into any typical diagnostic pattern. Bill's case is extremely complicated. His practitioner Nirala had to take her time in deconstructing the health issue's Bill faced and take special care to reconstruct his health,
Eddie Enever is a champion. He lost his testical ("Mr Righty") to cancer followed by 3 relapses over the next couple of years. He realised that his life priorities needed to change; and quickly! Eddie's journey of transformation came through a deeper understanding of self which dramatically improved his health. The knowledge gained has empowered Eddie to assist hundred's of other people diagnosed with cancer.
Frankie was just 3 years old when he was diagnosed with a Neuroblastoma. He had secondaries throughout his tiny body. Contrary to medical advice his mum Amanda trusted her instinct and also immediately engaged her Naturopath. When standard oncology treatment was combined with holistic medicine young Frankie was the winner.
Eat less and exercise more sounds like an obvious weight loss plan. For many it just doesn't work. There are so many other considerations to account for such as body type, individual microbiome, reactive foods and stress hormones. Kira Sutherland together with her client Tash discuss what did make a big difference in sustainable weight loss.
You have 4 children under 10 and a successful career only to find that your brain tumour has returned more aggressively. Your doctor tells you to prepare for death. The emotional roller coaster is unimaginable. Kate's incredible story brings hope, stability and humility to a precariously dangerous situation. For most of her life Kate was a 'giver' and 'receiving' didn't come easily. A brain tumour is a tough teacher.
Thank you to the Quest for Life foundation for assistance in this episode. If you need help or can volunteer or donate please visit their website: https://questforlife.org.au/
Something in our environment or food or medical approach is causing the rate of Autism diagnoses to rise sharply. This case study demonstrates the power of a holistic approach which in reality is the only way to tackle such a complicated condition. In this episode we follow the patients improvement from 3 to 16 years old. He has a remarkably wonderful outcome which will make you smile or cry (or perhaps both at the same time). Profound change is possible with a deep understanding.
Tired, jaundiced and nauseas? You may have Gilbert's syndrome ( a genetic liver issue) which may affect between 7% to 25% of the population depending on which part of the world you are from. Over time this condition will potentially impact your hormones and further diminish your liver's ability to detoxify. Medicine does not consider the condition serious but the symptoms experienced by some people demands an appropriate level of attention. Holistic practitioners consider the liver as key to good health.
Breathing and eating are critical to life. We talk so much about diet but relatively little about breathing. Yet the impact of breathing on our body's chemistry has an effect on almost every disease. Mim Beim is a breathing specialist and will discuss 3 patients covering sleep apnea, asthma and anxiety. If you want to improve your physical or mental health or enhance your sporting performance you'll be fascinated by this episode of a patient story.
Can you imagine being so sick from mould that you slip into a coma for 3 years? That is what happened to Amie Skiltons patient. With 50% of Australian homes being potential 'mould bombs' this is a topic that must be taken seriously. Allergies, asthma, eczema and even cancer can have an association with mould. This story will really make you think about your residential and working environments and how it can impact you and your family.
A diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease can be devastating because the understanding that most doctors and patients have is that the condition is degenerative with an expectation of worsening symptoms. In this episode you will meet John Coleman who through unbelievable personal adversity reversed his Parkinson's symptoms and went on to support over 3000 other people diagnosed with the same condition.
A healthy 13 year old female gets a covid vaccine and develops thrombocytopenic purpura, a condition that affects blood platelets causing bruising and excessive bleeding. Naturopath Diana Mund successfully applies holistic principals to overcome a strange beginning to a serious health issue.
Fatigue and exhaustion are a modern curse. In fact they represent main reason people visit their health care professionals. Without the proper care and support the symptoms escalate and manifest in different ways, both mentally and physically. These symptoms can not be treated by a tablet nor is there a special 'fatigue' test ( well, maybe iron levels). To properly manage fatigue and exhaustion requires an evaluation of your lifestyle, diet and environmental factors. With a deeper understanding of "you" a holistic health care provider can help you rediscover your energetic self. In this episode I interview the very lovely Karina Antram who has been through the journey and wrote a book "Fix Your Fatigue" to help others.
Mounting evidence is connecting oral hygiene with chronic disease. Holistic Dentist Ron Ehrlich helps us to understand this relationship which includes a fascinating turnaround in his patient with rheumatoid arthritis.
Charlie Teo is a very well known Neurosurgeon with a reputation for tackling difficult cases. In this episode Charlie opens up about his professional career and navigating the medical system. He also discusses how a holistic approach helped his patient with a Grade 3 Anaplastic Astrocytoma. These cancers usually offer a lifespan of 2-3 years post diagnoses.
Allergies are becoming increasingly common. For adults constant allergies can make life miserable. Parents caring for children with severe allergies live in constant fear. In practically all cases allergies interrupt the quality of life. By understanding diet, lifestyle and gut function a natural holistic approach will make an enormous difference with a liberating outcome. Sharon Selby and her client Lisa discuss how with structure and minimal fuss the changes that can literally change lives.
Over their life-time many women will experience ovarian cysts. For some it's a barely noticeable transient discomfort. For others it presents as abdominal and/or back pain, changes to urination and bowel problems. Our patient had a very large cyst that required surgery which she was desperate to avoid. How did Naturopath Maria Harpas help the patient to reduce the cyst and avoid surgical intervention?
In a modern world the rate of chronic kidney disease continues to climb. The general medical approach is "wait and see" but that is not good enough. Adrian Harper describes how he avoided renal dialysis for decades with natural medicine and diet. Also how he later used diet and supplements to minimise the side effects of dialysis to improve his quality of life, A truly inspirational and very timely story.
Migraine headache affects over 1 in 4 Australians who will on average have 21 episodes a year. The impact on family, social life and productivity is obvious, yet the condition is not well understood and the level of relative research has to date been insufficient. This leaves sufferers of this brutally painful condition to navigate through a range of medications with variable outcomes. Tune into Naturopath Josie Carin and her client Erin to understand how a significantly better quality of life was achieved.
Psychiatric Medicine is at a cross-road. Recent scientific journals report that most pharmaceutical drugs don't work for half of the population and that the serotonin (brain chemical) imbalance theory is questionable. Yet, the prescription rate of anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs continues to increase because medicine has no other options and people need help. In this interview, Dr James Greenblatt an integrative Psychiatrist of nearly 40 years explains how functional and natural medicine should be the first considered approach for safe and sustainable outcomes.
Menopause strikes fear into the hearts of many women. Stories of enduring symptoms from friends and family together with decisions around drugs or perseverance also play on the mind. What if the message was different? What if menopause was an honoured time of reflection that empowered women and prepared them for the best part of their lives? This episode is an honest discussion with Naturopath Brenda Rogers and her client Karen about the wonders ahead for women coming into and going through the change of life. An enlightening perspective.
Deep rooted negative thought patterns can become entrenched and manifest in a wide range of physical and mental symptoms. Filipa Bellette's frank honesty and journey of self discovery supports the notion that holistic medicine must consider the mind, body and spirit.
Desperate for a family but the numbers are not on the patients side: 45 years old, 36 rounds of IVF and 0 pregnancies. What did scientist and naturopathic fertility specialist Elizabeth Mucci discover that challenged and beat all odds? Sometimes the answers are hiding in plain sight.
Approximately 1 of every 6 couples experiences infertility. There are many contributing factors but in this story Naturopath Tracy Gaibisso discusses how she helped her client through fibroids and endometriosis to pregnancy. Contact Tracy via her website : www.beyondhealth.com.au
Vashti D'Vyne is a strong person; a high achiever who always pushed herself. After a series of misdiagnoses she required emergency and life-saving bowel surgery. With the help of natural medicine and good nutrition her post operative recovery has been impressive. To say she was shocked would be an understatement but Vashti took the opportunity to understand herself better and reassess what was important.
Itchy skin (pruritis) accounts for 75% of visits to a practitioner for the over 65 age group. Yet, it's barely talked about and not well researched. Naturopath Geraldine Headley discusses how she got her patient Jane through this debilitating symptom.
As a young woman Siobhan Bradley desperately needed to find a solution. She was in debilitating pain and constantly fatigued. Her Naturopath helped Siobhan so much that the student is now a teacher helping others.
With significant cardiovascular, nervous and immune disease Johanna was not doing well. Her health improved when her Doctors and Naturopaths worked together in her best interest.
Without warning Kathy Mills was told that she had an inoperable brain tumour and given 6 months to live. Synergistically combining every tool available she beat the odds. A remarkable woman. A remarkable outcome.
The surgeon told Anthony Minichiello (Mini) that the damage to his spine was so concerning that he should give up his playing career for fear of permanent and serious disability. That's tough to hear for a brilliant professional sportsperson and so Mini found another way through specific dietary change and supplementation. At the age of 30 he rejoined his team and kept winning in many ways.
Buzz Usborne is highly intelligent and has high confidence that medicine will find and treat the gut issues that have plagued him for years. Then his doctors tell him that there's not much more they can do. Buzz reluctantly seeks alternatives to find that natural medicine changed his life
Mum was getting worried as Cooper was not himself and this had been going on for too long. He was getting more exhausted and sickly as time went on. Thinking outside of the square his Naturopath discovered the problem and before long he was back to his normal bouncy self.
You have a science degree and you've played and coached at the highest level but a significant health issue makes you reassess everything you know. This Rugby League identity challenges his beliefs to make a remarkable turnaround.
A patient presents with an extraordinarily rare cancer. The treatment involves Doctors and Naturopaths across continents but there is one more twist to this story that changes everything.
A patient story will help people know what options are available to improve their health. Hear directly from those that have benefitted and/or their health practitioner telling the story. There is comfort in knowing that another has shared your journey and come through stronger and healthier.