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In today's podcast, we delve into the topic of mindfulness with our guest Stephen Schettini. Stephen, AKA the inner monk, shares his experiences as a mindfulness coach and as a former Tibetan monk.

In our episode, he shares how mindfulness:

• Differs from meditation
• Creates self-awareness
• Is bypassed by habitual behaviours
• Draws us into authenticity
• Allows us to feel the full spectrum of emotions
• Helps those with a chronic illness
• Provides realistic hope
• Makes us aware of negative thinking patterns
• Works best within a community
• Becomes part of your daily rhythm

Visit schettini.com to learn more about Stephen Schettini and his work.

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Today's topic uncovers an emotional aspect of my healing journey and I'm grateful to share my experiences with gut health coach, William Dickinson. William will help unpack disordered eating, restrictive diets and why your gut health may be the issue, not the food you're eating. In today's episode, we will also discuss:

• The connection between chronic illness and digestive function
• How compromised gut health intensifies the toxic effects of mercury and similar substances
• The five primary functions of the gut
• ARFID and fear-based eating habits
• How restrictive diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies and isolation
• How food can be a "moral" choice
• The intersection of physiological and psychological symptoms
• The stigma of a psychosomatic diagnosis
• How healing can turn the world from black and white into color
• The need for self-awareness and flexibility with food choices

Podcast Links for William Dickinson

Book a 1:1 consult
Take the Gut Health quiz
Website
YouTube

Get connected with The MS Gym

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Join us for a special podcast episode with the CEO of The MS Gym, Ken Allen. In today’s interview we’ll learn about:

• Ken and his career before The MS Gym
• How he met founder Trevor Wicken
• The MS Gym’s evolution and ethos
• The The MS Gym product offerings
• Its online growth and social media outreach
• Who’s not a good fit for The MS Gym
• Ken’s views about partnership and affiliates
• The MS Gym’s program updates
• Plans for MS Gym community events

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In today's episode, Jodi and I get to check in with Ardra Shephard about the engaging complexities of her intriguing new book, aptly titled, Fall-osophy, My Trip through Life with MS. You may think you already know Ardra from her award-winning blog, Tripping on Air, her social media content, or her popular podcast, but, trust us, if you REALLY want to know her, you need to place this revealing page-turner of a memoir on your shopping list. Until then Jodi, Ardra and I are going to give you a glimpse of what you can expect.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Her personal journey on her blog and social media being only a fraction of what is captured in her book
• The book making Ardra more 3D
• Both newbies and veterans of MS will resonate with the content
• This book is about way more than just a woman with MS
• A movie in the making
• Her goal with the book
• Deciding what's humiliating
• When her condition is finally given a label
• The worst symptom of MS…fear or guilt
• Looking cool while using mobility aids
• Her first MS DMD
• Dr. Muppet. What was he thinking?
• Ardra's HSCT saga
• Relief when your MS symptoms become visible
• When co-workers question the validity of your condition
• The “C” word. It's not what you think.
• Reminding ourselves of our value
• Being recognized for our contribution to relationships
• Disability decor
• Serenity is for quitters
• On dating
• Passing muster with potential in-laws
• Instilling self worth in a loved one
• Raising the bar for other MS advocates
• The love story woven throughout the book
• The unveiling of “The Banker”
• Inspiring others to write their story
• Giving the chronic illness community a voice

LINKS:

Video version of this interview on YouTube

Ardra's new book - FALL-OSOPHY, My Trip through Life with MS

Ardra on Instagram

Ardra's Blog, Tripping on Air

The Tripping on Air Podcast on YouTube

The MS Gym

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Take a journey overseas as we address the rarely discussed topic of mental health in the chronic illness community. Join our podcast guest Lynn as she shares about her:

• Early childhood symptoms
• Symptoms dismissed as anxiety
• Numerous doctors appointments but yielding no results
• Medical team delaying a diagnosis out of fear of legal action
• Physiotherapist (sister) "diagnosing" her with MS
• Mother's catastrophic reaction to diagnosis
• Various MS medications
• Struggle with mental illness and isolation
• Loss of friends due to disease progression
• New found love of baking
• Story with The MS Gym
• Numerous setbacks caused by infections
• Travel plans with her family
• "Why"

MS GYM LINKS:

THE MS GYM

Motivational Monday - Reconnecting with your WHY

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Today's podcast guest, Danielle, shares about the challenges of balancing family, work and chronic illness. Danielle shares with us her:

• First symptoms at 16 years old
• Lack of diagnosis due to technology limitations
• Symptom remission because of positive lifestyle changes
• Being shuffled between medical professionals
• Official diagnoses 11 years after initial symptoms
• Choice of MS medications
• Education and career
• Journey through pregnancy
• Favorite resource for mom's with young kids
• Supportive church community
• Work accommodations
• Discovery of The MS Gym
• Incorporation of "neural edge" into daily life
• Mobility aids
• Advice for the newly diagnosed and those in "limbo"
• Goals for the future
• Future family plans

MS GYM LINKS:

The MS Gym

Education - Threat Bucket

Book - "Some Days we.." by Julie A Stamm

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In today's podcast, we meet Michelle and explore her passion for advocacy, while she navigates her own health challenges.
Michelle will share about her:

• Sudden, troublesome symptoms
• Numerous diagnostic tests
• Official MS diagnosis
• Family history with MS
• Post-secondary education and career
• Passion to help vulnerable groups
• Rollercoaster ride with different DMTs
• Discovery of The MS Gym
• Dedication to exercise
• Volunteer opportunities
• Ability to advocate for herself and others
• Goals and achievements

THE MS GYM LINKS:

THE MS GYM

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Today's podcast guest, Missy, will inspire you, as she shares about her:

• Troubling health concerns
• Diagnosis with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Complications from RA medications
• Unusual symptoms and MRI findings
• Difficulty coping with life challenges
• Walking struggles and MS diagnosis
• Career and work accommodations
• Difficult decision to "medically" retire
• Support from family and church
• Travel adventures with mobility aids
• Journey to finding her new identity
• Advice for living a healing lifestyle
• Exciting upcoming family events

MS GYM LINKS:

THE MS Gym

Motivation Monday - Chemistry, butterflies and a rock

Motivation Monday - Overcoming your Crisis of belief - "I Won't"

Motivation Monday - Imperfect Action vs Perfect Inaction

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Let's travel down under to chat with Australian MS Gym member Kerry. Learn about her rare disease and journey of:

• Being diagnosed with Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM)
• Battling muscle atrophy
• Living with a disease that has no treatment options
• Embracing the Wahls protocol and experiencing symptom relief
• Finding The MS Gym
• Using her research skills to learn more about her disease
• Traveling to the U.S. to attend the Wahls coaching program
• Joining an international MS Gym Buddy Group to find community
• Refocusing her schedule to manage family priorities
• Training like an "athlete"
• Planning goals and future travel plans
• Self-care

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Join us as we travel to the rainy lands of the UK to chat with our latest podcast guest, Sarah. We'll learn more about Sarah's journey with MS as she shares about her:

• Early symptoms in childhood
• Post-secondary education in Germany
• Adventurous travel expeditions and volunteer work
• Marriage and difficulties finding work
• Catering business partnership with her parents
• Flare of symptoms and ensuing diagnosis
• Relatives with a previous MS diagnosis
• Choice of DMT
• Decision to travel to Mexico for HSCT
• Improvements seen since the treatment
• Signing up for The MS Gym
• Mollii suit and reduction in MS symptoms
• Support system and leisure activities
• Determination
• Future travel plans
• Love for the outdoors and her dogs
• Desire to live life to the fullest

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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In today's podcast we delve into the chaos with MS Gym veteran Julie. Join us as we travel down the winding path as Julie shares her:

• Initial symptoms
• Years of being gaslight
• Delayed MS diagnosis
• Son's cancer diagnosis
• Ability to find calm and community in the storm
• Sudden worsening of symptoms and departure from work
• Environmental triggers and isolation
• Change in life after finding The MS Gym
• Dedication to exercise and physical victories
• Memorable experiences at her children's weddings
• Goals for the future

MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

Confident In Crisis - Motivation Monday

Overcoming Your Crisis of Belief - Motivation Monday

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It's time to travel across the oceans to talk with today's podcast guest, Cathrin. We'll learn of her journey with MS from her homeland of Sweden. She'll share her story about her:

• First symptoms as a new mom
• Questionable and poorly delivered diagnosis
• Choice of DMTs and failure rates
• Lifestyle choices that helped relieve her fatigue
• Career and necessary accommodations
• Divorce and ensuing stress
• Journey to find The MS Gym
• Friendships forged in her Buddy Group
• Switch to the Wahls diet protocol
• Physical victories
• Travel accommodations
• Flooding threat bucket
• Need to prioritize work, rest, and chores
• Advice to the newly diagnosed
• Ability to show kindness and gratitude to her body

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

How Full Is Your Threat Bucket? - Episode

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Be encouraged by today's podcast as we talk with long time MS Gym member Joann. Journey with us as we unpack Joann's:

• Initial symptoms
• Challenges of navigating an MS diagnosis before the internet
• Choice to ignore unhelpful advice from medical providers
• Determination to continue her career
• Decision to pursue accommodations at work
• Routine with work and exercise
• Choice of medications
• Distaste for "labels"
• Feelings of being mistreated because of her disability
• Path to finding The MS Gym
• Passions and future desires
• Advice to the newly diagnosed
• Tenacity to keep moving forward

MS GYM LINKS:

The MS GYM

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In today's episode, we'll be chatting with MS Gym newcomer, Heather.
Gain new insights as we explore Heather's:

• First symptoms and diagnostic journey
• Challenges of being a single mom
• Career and accomodations
• Frustration of needing mobility aids at a young age
• Squeaky wheel policy
• First impressions of The MS Gym
• Non-linear progression with exercise
• Goals for the future
• Focus on living in the present moment
• "Why's"
• Advice to the fellow MS warriors

MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

Reconnecting with your WHY- Motivational talk with Trevor Wicken

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Join us for our first episode of the fall season as we talk with MS Gym veteran, Yulia, and learn about the many tools she's found and used in her healing journey with MS.

We'll talk about her:

• Initial symptoms and adolescent diagnosis
• Course of treatments - both pharmaceutical and natural
• Introduction to The MS Gym
• Love for The MS Gym community
• Freedom from loneliness and anxiety
• Tool belt - CPAP machine, Yoga Nidra, PEMF, EMS, Wim Hof
• Changes in diet and difficulties with Intermittent fasting
• Issues with body image and disordered eating
• Use of mobility aids for exercise
• Passion for exercise
• Advice to the newly diagnosed
• Victorious trip to Singapore
• Affirmation of her hard work

MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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In today's podcast episode, Jodi Feltham shares from the book, "Habit Stacking" by author James Clear. She highlights some of the tips and tricks she uses in her own life to create sustainable habits.

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In today's message Jodi Feltham shares about her own humble beginnings and healing journey from a broken rib injury. She also recounts the early beginnings of The MS Gym.

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I have the privilege today to interview our latest guest Dr. Samantha Roman, better known on TikTok as Dr. Sam. You'll learn valuable insights from our guest, who's not only a John Hopkins MS-trained neurologist, but a fellow MS warrior. In today's podcast, we'll discuss Dr. Sam's:

• Extensive education in mental health and neuroimmunology
• Experiences in MS research
• Initial symptoms, diagnosis, and MS treatments
• Experience with "medical student syndrome"
• Views on diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices
• Following on social media, most notably TikTok
• Desire to educate our community about all things MS
• Thoughts on therapy treatments in dealing with chronic illnesses
• Views on treatment risks and efficacy for each person
• Involvement in the "Treat MS trial"
• Distrust of the internet and the spread of misinformation
• Bewilderment about the TikTok myth of "MS and parasites"
• Advice to the newly diagnosed
• Recommendations about reputable and educational MS resources

Links

Dr. Sam on TikTok

thatmssdoc on Instagram

thatmsdoc on Facebook

The MS Gym

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Join us for our podcast as we learn more about Brenda, one of the Original Gymmers (OG) in The MS Gym. Today, she'll talk about her:

• Initial symptoms
• Unexpected diagnosis
• DMT and treatment choices
• Journey to find The MS Gym
• Her commitment to exercise
• Her change in vocation
• Travel bug origins
• Mobility aids that assist her in her passion for global travel
• Upcoming plans
• Advice to fellow Chronic Illness Warriors

MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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Life can change so quickly when diagnosed with a chronic illness. Things we once held tightly to like our jobs, hobbies, abilities, family and friends can disappear in the blink of an eye. We can find ourselves lost and isolated from the world around us. Today’s podcast guest tells us how she channelled her own struggles, fear and uncertainty into her TikTok videos and created a safe space and community for others who are struggling with chronic illness. What started out as a wobbly dance turned into 41,000 engaged followers, and a whole world of purpose.

Join me as we get social with Julie and learn about:

• Her initial symptoms and diagnosis
• Her struggles raising young children
• How she had to forego continuing education
• Her medication dilemmas and complications
• Her dedication to exercise
• How she started posting on Tiktok
• What motivates her daily videos
• Why she is so loved by her 41,000 followers
• Her speaking opportunities with #sothisisms
• Her hobbies, interests and desires
• Her advice for the newly diagnosed
• How she deals with the difficult days
• The message she wants to shout out

Links:

The MS Gym

Connect with Julie on TikTok

Connect with Jodi on TikTok , Facebook

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Social media is all around us and is a valuable tool for spreading knowledge, influencing others, and creating awareness. Today, we will learn from Toronto-born Christina Andaya as she shares about how she uses social media to:

• Create community and share about her own MS journey
• Raise awareness about atypical MS symptoms and unusual diagnosis in minority ethnic groups
• Collaborate with organizations, such as MS Canada and #sothisisMS
• Showcase her involvement in the Miss Galaxy Canada competition
• Explore career opportunities

Learn more about Christina Andaya.

Instagram

Christina Andaya - Social Media Marketing Specialist

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Today's episode is a super special one because I get to reintroduce and/or introduce the MS Gym to the masses.

The MS Gym has been around for almost 6 years and has thousands of followers, but there are upwards of 3 million people worldwide who have MS, so there's always someone newly diagnosed out there or just discovering us who may want to know more about exactly who we are.

Who's the founder? Where's it located? What's it all about? How can I benefit from it? And, what does it cost?

Our audience is going to get all of that information and more in today's episode as I had the unique opportunity to have an in-depth conversation with the creator and founder of the MS Gym, Coach Trevor Wicken. Let's goooo!

EPISODE NOTES:

• Its founder, programs, and pricing

• Reintroducing The MS Gym

• What is it?

• What is neuroplasticity?

• The role of the central nervous system.

• The brain is plastic

• The truth about neural pathways

• Trevor's credentials

• His own neurologic events

• Defending MS practitioners who don't have MS

• Fighting for people's lives

• The free online resources and where you can access them

• The difference between the free MS Gym information and the paid for program

• When you want more structure

• Details on the paid-for products and programs

• The Members Only Corner (MOC)

• The value of community and connection

• Mindset training

• A healing lifestyle

• Can you continue your regular exercise while using The MS Gym programs?

• Where to start

• Two of the most popular free programs

• Programs for people who use wheelchairs and/or mobility aids

• Full program pricing: semi-annual, annual, monthly

• Link to a promotional discount for podcast listeners

• Are the programs self-paced?

• The MS Gym app

• Consistently up-leveling the programs

• What the MS Gym isn't

• A fun random question about food

LINKS:

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

The MS Gym Programs and Products with Pricing:

Symptom Solutions

Individual Products

Membership Program including Members Only Community (MOC)

SPECIAL PROMOTION PRICING! (mentioned in this podcast episode)

BROOKE SLICK:

Website

Instagram

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With summer, vacation months upon us, at least here in the U.S., for those of us living with mobility issues, it adds on an extra layer of complexity and consideration into planning a trip.

Things like...Is your vacation rental gonna have steps? Is it going to have an elevator? Are you going to be able to get to your connecting flight fast enough through the airport? Are you going to hold everybody back because you're slow? Are you even going to be able to enjoy yourself on the trip? You know what I'm talking about.

Today's guest is going to tell you how you can conquer all of your fears with ease...on a scooter. That's right. It's the mobility device you didn't know you needed. Maybe the mere thought of using one makes you want to stop listening. Maybe you think you're not ready or bad enough yet to use a scooter.

Well, you can keep wasting your time and your physical energy trying to get all of your daily tasks completed. You can struggle through trying to keep up with the crowd. You can continue to rely on others to get you where you need or want to go. Or, you can listen to today's guest debunk all of your misgivings and tell you how it's done.

Join me in welcoming Jodi Johnson, one of our fellow MS Gymmers, to the podcast.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Rapid decline

• Most symptoms -related

• Persistent foot drop

• Tripping

• Enter mobility aids

• From strolling to rolling

• Starting with canes

• The joy and frustration that came with deciding to use a mobility aid

• Embarrassment

• Traveling with aids

• Discovering a workaround for walking longer distances

• Renting a wheelchair even though she wasn't "ready"

• Feeling small

• Being an ambulatory wheelchair user

• Trying out a walker/wheelchair combo…even in Portugal and Costa Rica

• Getting unapologetically used to using a mobility aid

• Mobility aids in the home

• Getting her first scooter

• Pride Gogo Scooter

• Shocked at the freedom and portability of a scooter

• Going to the mall again!

• Getting her independence back

• Using multiple mobility aids depending on how she was feeling on any given day

• Canes/walker/wheelchair/scooter

• Acquiring her bumblebee scooter

• Flying with a foldable scooter

• The Transformer by Solax

• Getting a lift for her car - Bruno Scooter Lifts for vehicles

• Opening up doors for travel

• Been on over 40+ flights

• Being aware of potential airline damage

LINKS:

Jodi Johnson on Instagram

Pride Gogo Scooter

Solax Transformer Automatic Folding Scooter

Bruno Scooter Lifts for vehicles

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Website

Instagram

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In today's MS Gym podcast episode, we'll chat with MS Gym member Kim as she shares about her:

• Symptoms and rare diagnosis
• Brain biopsy
• Family life
• Career in mental health
• Support system
• Love for MS support groups
• Inspirational mindset
• Independence and self-determination
• Priorities for living well
• Use of imagination to activate movement
• Desires for inclusivity and awareness
• Ability to break obstacles down into smaller, manageable parts

MS Gym Links: The MS Gym

Join host Jodes Feltham, on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook Reels to learn more about disability awareness and inclusion.

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Welcome back to our 3rd and initially unplanned episode with Dr. Richard Burt, author of the recently released book, Everyday Miracles and the OG provider of HSCT here in the US.

Let me explain why we thought it would be useful for our listeners, as well as Dr. Burt to come back and re-hash some of Dr. Burt's touch points from the first two episodes. In particular his stance on NOT treating PPMS and non-active SPMS with HSCT.

You see, after the first two episodes, I witnessed rumblings of concern and discontent within the online HSCT community. I belong to multiple HSCT groups and most had at least one or two conversations going on addressing Dr. Burt's most recent interviews, including ours on this podcast.

So, who was most concerned? Well, primarily PPMS patients, and non-active SPMS patients who are either considering HSCT, are already booked to have HSCT or those who've recently had HSCT. I 100% understand how Dr. Burt's stance on the efficacy of HSCT on their types of MS would have been reason for pause. Knowing that, I felt a responsibility to revisit the topic with him and drill down on the details.

It would also give us a chance to ask him a couple of questions we missed on the first interview, like dietary restrictions before and after HSCT as well as questions on second transplants.

We feel so fortunate that Dr. Burt graciously agreed to come on again an address a lot of these pressing issues.

Also, if you hold on until the end, Jodi and I have a short chat about what we took away from today's interview and recap our thoughts on our entire experience with Dr. Burt.

Because she and I have had HSCT, and each in different facilities, Russia and Mexico, we have a unique perspective and are able to relate to the concerns of an HSCT patient no matter what stage they're at in their HSCT journey.

EPISODE NOTES:

• 2nd transplants

• Were you misdiagnosed?

• Do you even have MS?

• Many diseases mimic MS

• The average percentage of patients who relapse post HSCT

• Explaining in detail his thoughts on treating PPMS and non-active SPMS patients

• What is RPMS (relapsing progressive MS) and would he offer HSCT to RPMS patients?

• The type of regimen he would recommend If progressive MS is treated with HSCT

• If not HSCT, what types of treatments does he recommend for PPMS and non-active SPMS patients?

• Does he have any dietary recommendations for HSCT patients either before or after HSCT?

• His thoughts on carbohydrates

• The Epstein Barr virus (EBV) connection to MS

• Following EBV titers after transplant

LINKS:

Episode #1 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ezjhqHtYA8Y

This episode, #2 of 2, on YouTube: https://youtu.be/40dqLdIeZlc

Dr. Burt's book, EVERYDAY MIRACLES: https://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Miracles-Scleroderma-Autoimmune-Hematopoietic/dp/1637631251

Dr. Burt's website: https://astemcelljourney.com/about/drrichardburt/

Email to apply for HSCT with Dr. Burt: BURTRRMSTrial@scrippshealth.org

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Website

Instagram

JODI FELTHAM:

TikTok

Instagram

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Today, we'll chat with one of our Original Gymmers, Jan J, and learn about her:

• Misdiagnosis and surgical treatment
• Primary symptoms and their impact on her life
• Change in occupation
• Adventures living in foreign lands
• Love for travel and how that looks after diagnosis
• Introduction to the The MS Gym
• Love for the Members Only Corner Facebook group
• Strategies to keep calm and maintain a positive outlook
• Ability to find joy in daily chores
• Future travel plans and bucket list destinations
• Goals for finding continued freedom
• Advice to keep moving your body

The MS Gym Links:

The MS Gym

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Join me today to uncover what purposes and desires reside in your heart that you want to share with the world.

Are you passionate about a specific hobby, diet, activity or cause?

Today, I'll talk about my own desire to become an advocate for disability and also my favorite clothing line lululemon.

It's my desire that disability be part of the "diversity" movement in word and in action.

Links

The MS Gym

Join me on my advocacy journey:

Jodesfeltham on Tiktok

Jodesfeltham on Instagram

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Welcome to part two of two of our interview with Dr. Richard Burt. I can't tell you how many people have reached out to me after listening to part one and how anxious they are to see what awaits in part two. I even had one listener message me to say the interview with Dr, Burt should be required watching for everyone with MS, and I'm not going to disagree with that deduction.

If you have PPMS, whether you're considering HSCT or not, you should definitely listen to this episode. Dr. Burt completely reframes the type of disease PPMS is or isn't. If you want to hear about the future of organ and tissue repair including but not exclusive to remyelination, you should listen to this episode. Those topics are just scratching the surface of what this medical innovator brings to the table for the future of the treatment of chronic illnesses, debilitating injuries, and to the exciting new world of neuroregeneration. I feel certain that what he's working on today is laying the groundwork for treatments that will be considered commonplace over the next 30 years.

Before we jump into this next episode, I wanted to let you know that this episode will be available to view on the MS Gym’s YouTube page, and there will be links in the episode notes to that YouTube page. There will also be links to part one of this interview as well as links to Dr. Burt’s book, and his website, as well as an email, where you can contact Dr. Burt’s team if you're considering HSCT.

EPISODE NOTES:

• His thoughts on PPMS and why he doesn't treat it

• How disease labels can evolve over time

• How HSCT drug protocols vary per autoimmune disease

• What can trigger a relapse post HSCT

• IPS stem cells and neuroregeneration

• Starting a new biotech company

• The future of HSCT in Chicago

• How IPS could help patients with SPMS and PPMS

• Where patients can receive non-myeloablative HSCT in the US now

• Neurodegenerative treatment for non-active SPMS and PPMS

• Pseudo flares post HSCT and what can cause them…don't panic!

• Tweaking the healthcare system to make the patient first

• Medicine is a profession, healthcare is a business

LINKS:

Episode #1 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ezjhqHtYA8Y

This episode, #2 of 2, on YouTube: https://youtu.be/40dqLdIeZlc

Dr. Burt's book, EVERYDAY MIRACLES: https://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Miracles-Scleroderma-Autoimmune-Hematopoietic/dp/1637631251

Dr. Burt's website: https://astemcelljourney.com/about/drrichardburt/

Email to apply for HSCT with Dr. Burt: BURTRRMSTrial@scrippshealth.org

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Instagram

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I'm super excited about these next two episodes!

Of course, any episode that has to do with HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplant) is super important to me. For the last 10 years, I've been a vocal advocate for HSCT. Screaming about it from the top of my lungs through social media, blogging, and to anyone who would listen or inquired. As you may or may not know, my co-host, Jodi, and I have both received HSCT for our MS. I had mine in Russia 10 years ago, and Jodi in Mexico in 2018. So when Dr. Richard Burt's team reached out to us to discuss all things HSCT, as well as his recently released book, Everyday Miracles, that puts forth, in lay terms, his long road to accomplishing his goals, we were beyond open to having the opportunity to ask all the questions we ever wanted to know. Those questions include the reasoning behind his choices for inclusion and exclusion of certain patients for this treatment...in particular, MS patients. Questions like…Which MS patients does this treatment work for? Who doesn't it work for? and why?

So who is Dr Richard Burt? He's the determined and innovative physician who pioneered the use of HSCT in the US. Within the HSCT community, he's considered the Godfather of HSCT, and yes, in case you're wondering, he IS the Dr. who treated actress Selma Blair.

For the last 35 years, with laser focus and blinders on to block out any peripheral static from naysayers, Dr. Burt has been quietly and methodically raging against the machine that is today's medical system.

Armed with the knowledge he gained while treating patients with leukemia with HSCT, he felt certain it could potentially halt the progression of certain autoimmune diseases and in many cases, reverse symptoms. So he plowed forward with a mission to prove his hypothesis. But it wouldn't happen overnight. There were randomized trials, hundreds of patients, many diseases and, in the end, life-changing success stories.

Dr. Burt was the first doctor in the US to give hope to patients with MS, Lupus, Crohn's, Stiff Person Syndrome and CIDP, when in the past they'd grappled with a life filled with a long list of ineffective drugs and certain disease progression.

To be clear, just because he was butting up against systemic red tape here in the US, doesn't mean he wasn't becoming a highly decorated peer by the international medical community and beyond. His list of awards granted by esteemed medical organizations is lengthy and impressive. I mean seriously, how many doctors do you know who've been presented with the "keys to the Vatican" in Vatican City, Rome? He was even recognized by Science illustrated for accomplishing one of the top 10 medical breakthroughs for the next 10 years. And, the forward for his book was written by the Dalai Lama!

Yes! Dr. Burt has got the juice! So much so that we had to squeeze it out in two full episodes. Both of which are packed with answers from pointed questions that you won't find anywhere else. Asked by HSCT veterans who, for over a decade, have been privy to all the insider speculation regarding Dr. Burt's methodology. Like why he will or won't treat certain MS patients, why he uses certain drugs in his protocol, and what he considers a successful HSCT.

It's time to dig in and peel back the curtain on HSCT with Dr. Richard Burt.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Dr. Burt's book, Everyday Miracles

• Making HSCT easy to understand

• 54 patient stories

• Being a patient-oriented physician

• Insurance coverage

• How HSCT works

• The mistake of thinking that the stem cells are what resets your immune system

• Whose stem cells are used?

• Myeloablative or non-myeloablative HSCT…which one does Dr. Burt prefer for AI disease

• HSCT for cancer vs. an autoimmune disease

• Stronger protocols don't always mean better

• A one-time treatment

• How long will it last?

• The important role of measuring brain atrophy in MS progression

• The colonialistic attitude of doctors toward patients

• The risks associated with a myeloablative protocol

• What is the definition of a successful HSCT

• The difference between active and non-active SPMS

• Neurodegeneration…it's tricky

• Ocrevus, neurodegeneration and progression to SPMS

• Your immune system is your ally

• MS drugs are toxins

• Why he used ATG as part of his HSCT protocol

LINKS:

Dr. Burt's book, EVERYDAY MIRACLES: https://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Miracles-Scleroderma-Autoimmune-Hematopoietic/dp/1637631251

Dr. Burt's website: https://astemcelljourney.com/about/drrichardburt/

Email to apply for HSCT with Dr. Burt: BURTRRMSTrial@scrippshealth.org

THE MS GYM:

Website

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Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Instagram

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Let's travel the globe to chat with one of our international gym Member, Birgit.

We'll unpack her:

• Difficult diagnosis
• Relief with finding answers
• Active lifestyle
• Career and accommodations
• Difficulty educating colleagues about MS
• Lifestyle choices with food and exercise
• Discovery of The MS Gym
• Choice to pursue medications
• Acceptance and convictions of her disease and choices
• Transparency with close friends and family about her diagnosis
• Honest and open relationship with her neurologist
• Tools to stay calm and focused on her difficult days
• Advice to the newly diagnosed
• Future travel plans and whale watching adventures
• Passion to mentor the newly diagnosed in her community
• Her love for the Members Only Corner

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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Today we're going to be talking about integrative and functional medicine and how you can use them in tandem for your best and healthiest outcome while living with MS.

No matter where you are in the trajectory of your disease. Whether you've just been diagnosed or you've had it for 30 years, you may have asked yourself, "What can I be doing for myself above and beyond the drugs I'm taking, or the infusions I'm getting? There has to be something else."

That's where our next guest, Dr. Susan Payrovi, comes into play. Dr. Payrovi is the co-founder of True Medicine which you'll hear more about in this episode. She's board certified in integrative and functional medicine and has dedicated her practice to a whole-person approach to treatment that goes beyond simply throwing drugs at a patient to see what sticks.

Over and above her degrees that hang on her wall, Dr. Payrovi is even more uniquely qualified to provide advice to her patients because she herself lives with MS.

Please join Jodi and I in welcoming Dr. Susan Payrovi as she educates us on the power of lifestyle habits that can lead to lifelong wellness.

EPISODE NOTES

• What is integrative and functional medicine?
• The power of lifestyle habits
• Looking at the human body through a different lens
• Looking at the underlying cause of symptoms
• Looking beyond the physical body
• The profound effect of childhood experiences
• Convincing a patient to consider integrative and functional medicine
• The advantages of working in groups
• Starting with one small change
• What integrative and functional medicine isn't
• What one lifestyle habit would have the biggest effect
• How to make gains in sleep
• The role exercise plays in good sleep
• Cortisol, Melatonin and how they affect sleep
• The lesser known benefits of exercise/movement
• The gut microbiome
• How much exercise to create change
• Rats and remyelination
• The best time of day to exercise
• How much exercise is enough
• Keeping positive mindset in your MS toolbox
• Looking for the gifts of your MS
• Stress management
• Mindset and longevity
• Underestimating the power of our thoughts
• The influence of who you surround yourself with
• Integrative and functional medicine and insurance
• Dr. Payrovi's True Medicine practice
• A structured way to think through your goals
• 12-day detox challenge
• Gut restoration program

LINKS

DR. PAYROVI & TRUE MEDICINE

THE MS GYM:

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YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

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Welcome to part two of our podcast about the gut and microbiome with coach William Dickinson.

In today's episode, we'll learn more about:

• The five pillars of good gut health (stomach acid, digestive enzymes, bile, motility and the gut mucosa)
• How the microbiome interacts with these five pillars
• The importance of having a diverse microbiome to combat disease
• Whether or not deficiencies in the five pillars are causing your unnecessary symptoms and discomfort
• What the “root cause” is and how it plays into your disease and treatment process
• My personal experiences working firsthand with William and the successes I’ve seen in my food intake and digestive function.
• Additional resources to learn more about gut health and auto immunity

Links:

The MS Gym

William Dickinson Linktree

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We’ve all heard so much information about the importance of good gut health. But what does that really mean?

Today’s guest, coach William Dickinson, will help us unravel some of the mystery around autoimmune disease and the gut.

In part one of this podcast, we will learn about William and his own health journey through chronic fatigue syndrome.

He’ll share his:

• Root causes
• Debilitating fatigue that left him bed ridden for one-and-a-half years
• Restricted diet
• Deep-dive research into the gut and microbiome
• Own healing journey
• Discovery of the connection between autoimmune disease and the infamous, leaky gut (intestinal hyperpermeability)
• Formulation of the Five Pillars to heal your gut course

Links:

The MS Gym

William Dickinson Linktree

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Welcome back to the second episode of our interview with actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler.

In this episode, we pick up where we left off when I asked Jamie if she'd experienced a postpartum relapse of her MS. We also discuss Jamie's MS mom guilt, and how she makes vacationing with young children and MS easier. Also in this episode, she shares her experience with Coach Trevor and the hope that his advice has given her. We finish out this intriguing interview by touching on Jamie's diet choices as well as what and how she uses cannabis for spasticity.

EPISODE NOTES:

-Raising young children with MS

-Remission of symptoms during pregnancy

-Postpartum depression

-What she can and can't do with her children

-The guilt of having others do things with her kids

-"Other moms can run"

-Focusing on what she CAN do

-Would I have been a better mom without MS

-When your spouse and children become your cheerleader

-Raising children with a conscious

-Julie Stamm's book, Some Days

-Bringing value despite MS

-The value of therapy

-Finding solace in friendships

-Vacationing with young children and MS

-Not slowing anybody down

-Choosing smaller hotels

-Making vacation easier with accessibility

-Jamie's experience with Trevor and the MS Gym

-Feeling so much hope

-The handbook for living

-Blown away by Trevor's compassion

-Infectious and genuine

-Diet

-She's tried ALL the diets

-Being kind to herself

-Nothing strict

-Everything in moderation

-Whatever makes her feel normal and not restrictive

-Sugar is the enemy

-Restricting water intake

-Avoiding stimulants

-Cannabis for spasticity

LINKS

Jamie's Instagram Page

Big Sky on ABC

Big Sky on Hulu

Julie Stamm's book, Somedays

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Website

Instagram

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Welcome back to another season of The MS Gym Podcast. Jodi and I had planned on taking the summer off as we typically do, but opportunities kept presenting themselves that we simply couldn't turn down. 

We've been absolutely humbled and honored that potential guests have been coming to us, instead of the other way around.

That's right. Word continues to spread about The MS Gym. continues to spread about Coach Trevor, his 100% commitment to and extensive knowledge of how the MS body responds to movement, and his well-informed grasp on how neuroplasticity can restore functionality that was perceived as being impossible.

With that kind of reputation, word gets around fast and far, and that's exactly how it happened with this episode's guest. A friend of hers told her about The MS Gym, she took a look at some of Trevor's videos and was intrigued, so she decided to contact The MS Gym to see how she could work with Trevor, only to find out that we had been trying to contact her to be on the podcast. You see, this was no random guest we were reaching out to. This was a Hollywood actress, famous for her role as Meadow Soprano on the long running HBO series The Sopranos, and now appearing in the ABC series Big Sky, who, after keeping her MS diagnosis under wraps for around 16 years, decided to go public. Little did she know, the MS world was cheering her on, anxious to see how she could use her far-reaching platform to shine a light on MS. 

If you haven't figured it out by now, our guest on today's episode, as well as an upcoming episode, is Jamie-Lynn Sigler, a 42-year-old mother of two young boys, and wife to an incredibly supportive husband.

Over the next two episodes, Jamie opens up about a wide range of topics, from how she handled being diagnosed at a young age, making the decision to go public, the gift of workplace accommodation, raising young children, how she uses cannabis for relief, to, most importantly, her own experience with Trevor and The MS Gym.

EPISODE NOTES:

-Being diagnosed with Lyme disease

-MS at 20 when Sopranos was peaking

-Avonex

-Not being a good patient

-The stress of divorce

-Keeping her MS a secret

-Wanting to get rid of MS

-Finding a partner who was "in it" with her was a turning point

-The emotional side of MS

-Figuring out how to thrive with MS

-Dating with MS

-Being pleasantly surprised by the acceptance of 

others

-The tipping point for revealing her diagnosis to the public

-Making excuses for her visible symptoms

-Taking time off after having her son

-Coming clean about her MS 

-The People magazine article that changed everything

-Her celebrity status doesn't make MS any easier

-Feeling a great sense of responsibility as a celebrity with MS

-Accommodating her MS symptoms when filming

-Not wanting to feel like a burden on the set

-Masking her gait issues

-Using a stunt double

-Inclusivity in Hollywood

-Dreaming of a role that incorporates her MS

-Feeling guilt and shame about her limitations

LINKS

Jamie's Instagram Page

Big Sky on ABC

Big Sky on Hulu

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Website

Instagram

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Tune in for the second part of our discussion with world-renowned Dr. Terry Wahls, creator of The Wahls Protocol. In today's discussion, we'll learn more about Dr. Wahls' role as a researcher. She shares about her upcoming randomized study, Efficacy of Diet on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis.

Diet is often heralded as the key ingredient to managing MS symptoms. But, with over a dozen "MS diets" out there that are often contradictory to each other, how do we really know which one is best? Or is there even one diet that works for everyone?

Everyone shares their opinions about the "proper" MS diet, from fellow MSers to complete strangers. But is the only evidence available anecdotal? What makes this study so exciting is that it's the largest, longest, randomized study about diet and MS.

Study outcomes will be measured both with physical measures, such as MRI findings and changes in walking ability, and patient-reported outcomes in regards to fatigue and mood.

We're all looking forward to the proof in that "gluten and dairy free" pudding. So grab those spoons and let's dig in.

In this episode, we'll learn more about the study.

• Inclusion/exclusion criteria
• Location, start date, and duration
• Physical measures being tested
• Primary and secondary outcomes
• 3 different diets being compared
• Randomization process and adherence requirements
• Time line of results

Dr. Wahls also discusses:

• The importance of adopting a diet that's realistic for each household
• The recent updates to her book, The Wahls Protocol, and how results from this study may shape further revisions
• The carnivore diet as the "ultimate" elimination diet and her reservations about it

For more information about Dr. Wahls upcoming study check out these links:

Study information

Recruitment Poster

Screening eligibility

Additional links:

DR. TERRY WAHLS:

Website

Book - The Wahls Protocol - with access to BONUS content

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

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Hello everyone and welcome to a very special 2-part episode of the MS Gym podcast. At the moment, Jodi and I are currently on our usual summer podcast hiatus, but when author Dr. Terry Wahls, the creator of The Wahls Protocol, reached out to us to help share information about a new study she's working on, we were honored and MORE than happy to oblige.  We both thought it would be a perfect opportunity to host an episode together and, of course, we couldn't wait to share the episodes with our listeners.

So, you might be thinking, who is Dr. Terry Wahls? What's the Wahls Protocol?

Dr. Wahls is currently a clinical professor of medicine at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine in Iowa City, Iowa, U.S.A., where she teaches internal medicine residents in their primary care clinics. She also does clinical research and has published over 60 peer-reviewed scientific abstracts, and papers.

What gives Dr. Wahls a unique perspective in her field, is the fact that in. 2003 she was diagnosed with RRMS  and quickly transitioned to SPMS a few short years later. 

At that time, she put her researched-oriented brain to work and discovered that most MS treatments centered around drugs that were years away from approval. Given that, she diverted her attention to the role of vitamins and supplements, which were readily available, in helping brain disorders, as part of a treatment plan. She added to her research repertoire functional medicine, a biology–based approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease and from there started compiling a list of supplemental nutrients that would assist in brain health. Her ah ha moment came when she asked herself, what if she created a diet that would include those important brain nutrients, not from supplements, but from the foods she ate...and the rest is Wahls Protocol history! 

In this episode one of two, we'll get a closer look at Dr. Wahls own physical decline and how she ate her way back to health and onto creating the now infamous Wahls Protocol. We'll also ask her about the new study she's working on. 

EPISODE NOTES:

• Who is Dr. Terry Wahls?
• Her unique perspective
• Eating her way to healthy
• Too weak to sit in a chair
• Why mitochondria is key
• Diet, exercise and supplements
• How it changed her career path
• What MS drugs she's taken over the years
• Her chemotherapy experience
• Redesigning her Paleo diet
• When the magic happened
• The highlights of the Wahls Protocol
• Where are the nutrients in the food?
• Her troublesome trigeminal neuralgia
• Being able to sit at the dining table
• Making symptomatic strides from food alone
• The bike ride that changed everything
• Bringing the Wahls Protocol to the masses
• When her own residents started trying her protocol
• Running her own clinic
• "Give me your sickest people"
• Is it a healing diet?
• A body's regenerative capacity
• Fixing the microbiome
• Is it a high fat, low carb diet?
• Less sugar, more vegetables and protein, yes or no?
• FATS, what types are important?
• How the standard American diet is destructive
• Meeting people where they're at
• Explaining why there is NOT a one size fits all diet
• Is coconut oil really like "the devil"?
• Pre-diet blood work
• How our genetic differences change the efficacy of our diet choices
• Should children be on a ketogenic diet
• Who you shouldn't be listening to
• The family factor
• Dr. Wahls study

LINKS:

DR. TERRY WAHLS:

Website

Book - The Wahls Protocol - with access to BONUS content

THE MS GYM:

Website

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

BROOKE SLICK:

Website

Instagram

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Travel with us overseas today as we chat with Julie Wake and explore her:

• Initial symptoms and delayed diagnosis
• Defeated feelings and "death sentence" mindset
• Lifestyle commitments to diet, mindfulness and exercise
• New found ability to see her mobility tools as an aid and not a crutch
• Recent travel endeavours
• Daily motivation for pressing play

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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What an encouraging podcast episode we've got for you today from one of our superstar gymmers, Annika.

Join us as we learn about her:

• Prolonged diagnosis and denial
• Tangled web of disease-modifying therapies
• Experience with the Coimbra Protocol (high-dose vitamin D medical treatment)
• Finding The MS Gym
• Hope through neuroplasticity
• Inspiration and courage to tackle new adventures
• Daily exercise habits

"My advice to other disabled people would be, concentrate on things your disability doesn't prevent you doing well, and don't regret the things it interferes with. Don't be disabled in spirit, as well as physically.” - Stephen Hawkin

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

What The Heck is Neuroplasticity?

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This episode is up close and personal for me. It explains why I've been off grid for the last few months, my continued battle with trigeminal neuralgia, and, even more disturbing (at least to me), my mental struggle with fear.

I will share how even the most strong-willed, strong-minded person you know, may need to seek counseling to get over the mental hurdles of living with a chronic illness.

Most importantly, I want you all to know that seeking counseling is for the wise, not the weak. It can set you free from your time-wasting, joy-sucking struggle with fear and mental angst.

EPISODE NOTES:

-Flu, shingles and a trigeminal neuralgia (TN) attack

-How pain can make your life very small

-Surgery, surgery and more surgery over the years

-My next move

-Weighing options

-My choice to have gamma knife (radiation) treatment

-The patience required for recovery

-The disappointment of attacks after surgery

-Being offered pain meds as a stopgap

-Waiting for the healing to happen

-A long history of medical mishaps

-A stroke at age 35

-An unexpected autoimmune clotting disorder

-Finally, an MS diagnosis

-A pile of failed MS drugs

-Suck it up buttercup mentality

-Constantly revisiting painful medical trauma

-Getting stuck in a loop

-Reliving past traumas

-The difference in past trauma and trauma now

-The unpredictability of TN

-The fear that led me to counseling

-Having your fear validated

-Simple tools to reprogram your thoughts

-Shutting down the stigma

-Seeking counseling does not mean you're weak. It means you're wise

-Stop letting fear waste your time and destroy your joy

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Instagram - @themsgym

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMSGym

Website - www.themsgym.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheMSGym/?ref=share

Brooke Slick

Instagram - @brooke.slick

Website - www.brookeslick.com

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Today, we chat with Susan and learn about her two-decade journey with MS. Join us as she talks about her:

• First symptoms
• Diagnosis
• Familial connection with MS
• Challenges with employement
• Lifestyle and medical choices
• Dedication to exercise and The MS Gym
• Her upcoming "why"
• Meaningful walking victories and community support
• Freedom and joy in doing everyday chores
• Advice for new MS Gym members
• Buddy Group

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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Feel refreshed today as we chat with MS Gymmer Jennifer Laymon and hear about her:

• Houdini symptoms
• Treatment choices
• Belief in The MS Gym
• Negative self-talk
• Dedication to growth
• Many physical and mental victories
• Winner mindset about exercise and effort
• Goals and dreams for the future

MS Gym Links

Motivation Monday: How To Live a Life By DESIGN..NOT by Diagnosis

Motivation Monday: You are NOT Alone Anymore

Mindset Minute: Feed Your Mind Well

THE MS GYM

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Are you fighting for control?

It can be so tiring to make the "right" choices. So exhausting to do everything perfectly. What happens when we think we're on the right path but it doesn't lead to the destination we were hoping for? What then?

What would it look like for you to embrace your inability to control everything?

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Today, we venture overseas to chat with Susannah to learn more about her:

• Multifaceted diagnosis
• Support system
• Teaching career
• Love of travel
• Walking adaption with trekking poles
• Increased Confidence
• Improvements, mentally and physically
• Deep desire to connect with friends and family
• Her goals and plans for the future

MS GYM LINKS

The MS Gym

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Welcome to the episode I've been dying to bring to you! It's all about the use of canes and trekking poles, and, most importantly, the advantages or disadvantages of using one or the other; and, yes, believe it or not, there are HUGE differences in these two modes of assistance.

Luckily for us, today we have access to wisdom and professional insight of Trevor Wicken, founder of the MS Gym, to break it all down for us.

I think it's important to point out that though many of you may know him as Coach Trevor, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that Trevor holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Medicine and Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology & Biomechanics. His education AND his 21+ years of professional experience are steeped in biomechanical analysis, neurologic strength training and neuroplasticity in addition to his other specialties. I can think of no better resource to give us advice on how, when, and which assistive device we should be using.

EPISODE NOTES:

• At what point in your mobility journey should you be considering a assistive device?
• The stigma that accompanies assistive device use
• Paying attention to your patterns of mobility difficulty
• Giving yourself permission to allow yourself to feel safe
• Why Trevor loves trekking poles
• Our bodies are wired for symmetry
• Assistive devices give your brain the opportunity to chill and concentrate on walking
• What's missing in your walking chain when you use a cane?
• The danger of asymmetry
• Restoring gait patterns with trekking poles
• Who wouldn't you recommend a cane or trekking poles for?
• When one trekking pole or cane should be used
• You've got to check your ego!
• What comes first, a rollator or a cane/trekking pole?
• When you're not ready for trekking poles
• In which hand should you be holding your cane trekking pole
• How reaching for things throws you off balance
• Are there programs within the MS Gym (membership or free) that specifically address cane and trekking pole use?
• The final word on which device Trevor favors...canes or trekking poles?
• The ongoing conversation we have with ourselves regarding the stigma of mobility device use
• Learning not to be ego driven
• You can't control what people think
• What's good for you is good for your social circle
• The gift of the disease

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Instagram - @themsgym

Website - www.themsgym.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheMSGym/?ref=share

Brooke Slick

Instagram - @brooke.slick

Website - www.brookeslick.com

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Today's journey takes us to Quebec, Ontario to chat with one of our members, Mae. Join us as we learn more about her:

• Initial symptoms
• Diagnosis at a young age
• Decision to pursue a career in the medical field
• "Forced" retirement
• Daily exercise routine
• Positive Mindset
• Ability to celebrate victories big and small
• Contagious smile

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

Motivation Monday: If you can walk 3 steps, you can walk 30

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Be encouraged and entertained as we chat with Charla about her:

• Symptoms and diagnosis
• Career adaptations as a dancer and coach
• Severe dietary reactions
• Ability to become a detective of her MS symptoms
• Finding The MS Gym
• Improvements that came from neurologically-based exercise vs. traditional weight lifting
• Motto of "I'll improve you wrong"
• Gratitude in finding victory in all things
• Never giving up spirit

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

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This episode welcomes Julie Stamm, author, MS advocate, and proud mom of Jack to the podcast.

Julie, who wrote the recently-released book, Some Days, A Tale of Love, Ice Cream and My Mom's Chronic Illness, shares with us her insight on raising a young child while having MS.

Her thought-provoking book, written from a child's perspective, proves that through a child's eyes, things may not be exactly as they seem, and the pressure you may be putting on yourself to perform for your child is likely an unrealistic, self-imposed expectation.

We hope you walk away from this episode with an enlightened feeling of relief, knowing that in the end, all your child needs is your time and your love.

EPISODE NOTES

• About Julie's book, Some Days

• The fears that come with pregnancy when you have MS

• How she and her son view "bad days" differently

• Turning obstacles into games

• Teaching your child resilience

• How the book is uniquely from a child's perspective

• Teaching your child that "everyone has something"

• Explaining MS to your child

• Incorporating your disability into fun

• Adapting how you play with your child based on your current symptoms

• The importance of talking to your child

• The things your child will and won't remember

• Whether to disclose your disease from your child or not

• Teaching about disability/chronic illness and empathy in the classroom

• Customizing the cover of her book

• Book #2 coming out next Fall...Book #3 the following Fall.

• Julie's advice to pregnant moms and women considering having children

LINKS:

Some Days, A Tale of Love, Ice Cream and My Mom's Chronic Illness

Motion Censor Night Light

The MS Gym

Instagram - @themsgym

Website - www.themsgym.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheMSGym/?ref=share

Brooke Slick

Instagram - @brooke.slick

Website - www.brookeslick.com

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In today’s episode, we journey to England to chat with Ann about her:

• First symptoms and diagnosis
• Sudden disruption of career opportunities
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Threat bucket
• Willingness to be vulnerable
• Passion for writing and poetry
• Love letter to The MS Gym (see below)

Acrostic poem to Trevor Wicken and The MS Gym

Thousands of strangers are connected by hope.

Redefining their abilities and expectations.

Evolving in their bodies and minds.

Virtually family.

Ordinary people experiencing extraordinary miracles.

Results speak for themselves.

Wisdom and passion fuel our journeys.

Individuals feel valued.

Compassion is contagious.

Kisses and hearts festoon the house you created.

Endurance is easy.

Now that you have brought us together.

The MS Gym Links

The MS Gym

Motivation Monday: Threat bucket

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SUMMARY:

In this episode, I welcome board certified neurologist, Dr. Marwa Kaisey, to the podcast where we discuss the most up-to-date information on COVID vaccines and COVID boosters. In particular, we discuss how all of that information relates to people living with MS.

Dr. Kaisey, an assistant professor in the Department of Neurology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles focuses her practice on caring for people with MS and other neuroimmune conditions. She teaches Cedars-Sinai neurology residents in both inpatient and outpatient settings and assists with the MS fellowship. She's won multiple teaching awards including the AB Baker teacher recognition award from the American Academy of Neurology.

Dr. Kaisey is active in research and has several publications on the diagnosis and misdiagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Her work includes developing novel tools to more quickly and accurately diagnose MS.

She can be found on Instagram @themsmd and YouTube where she provides, in a quick and concise way, all the latest in MS research as well as tips for living well with MS. Links to both of those can be found in the Episode Notes.

In this episode, Dr. Kaisey and I cover not only the most commonly asked questions regarding COVID and MS, but also the questions that we might be curious about but aren't often discussed.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Is MS alone considered an underlying condition?

• Which MS treatments put you at higher risk?

• What about the timing of a vaccine and your infusion?

• Which MS drug puts you at 4x higher risk of being hospitalized from Covid?

• Tysabri and the blood brain barrier.

• The sweet spot for timing your vaccine and your infusion for best vaccine efficacy.

• Vaccine response and antibody testing.

• Will the vaccine evolve as new variants emerge?

• How the vaccine was designed.

• What to do if you want to get a Covid vaccine and a flu vaccine and when? Can you get them at the same time?

• Typical side effects of first and second doses of the COVID vaccine.

• Dr. Kaisey's Conquer MS project. Link below.

• Should an MS patient get a vaccine booster?

• A third dose or a booster? Which one? Is there a difference? Are you eligible?

• How long does your natural immunity last if you've had COVID?

• Mixing brands of vaccines. Is it safe?

• How were they able to bring the COVID vaccine to market so quickly? Did they cut corners? Were safety measures sidestepped?

• How long until we'll have some sense of normalcy?

• Masks. Are they still important?

LINKS:

Where to find Dr. Marwa Kaisey:

Instagram - @themsmd

YouTube - https://youtube.com/c/drmarwakaisey

The MS Gym

Instagram - @themsgym

Website - www.themsgym.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheMSGym/?ref=share

Brooke Slick

Instagram - @brooke.slick

Website - www.brookeslick.com

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In today’s podcast, we join Michael from Scotland.

He talks about his:

• Diagnosis
• Career changes
• Relationship challenges
• MS treatment options
• MS Gym victories

MS Gym Links:

The MS Gym

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Join us as we explore the musical passions of one of our own international MS Gym Buddy Groups. Today, we will cross time zones and country borders to learn how these members:

• Each began their own musical journey
• Came together as a group sharing their passion for music
• Found community across cultures and country lines
• Beat isolation by forming bonds
• Shared their dreams and fears about the present and future
• Collaborated their musical talents to create music
• Made music despite their disability and technical challenges
• Inspired each other while finding their own inner purpose
• Each found The MS Gym
• Shared their dreams and losses together
• Seek to inspire others with their music

Links:

The MS Gym

Gravity & Gratitude - Youtube video

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I'm so excited to bring you the 4th and final episode of the series of interviews from the MS Gym's Thrive Summit, previously available to members only.

I'm even more excited that the interview is with fan favorite, and former guest, registered dietitian, Ahna Crum. Ahna, who's certified in Integrative and Functional Medical Nutrition, will be completing her masters in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine by the end of this year. As juicy as her credentials sound, her previous series on MS and diets are even juicier, and I don't even think she knows this, but they still hold the record for the most downloads of any episodes in MS Gym Podcast history. She's that good!

This particular 5 to Thrive interview you'll be listening to today is no less stellar and focuses on five crucial areas of importance when it comes to diet and living with MS. I had to re-listen to it today to take notes for the episode and it sucked me in all over again. Hanging on every word.

It's important to note that in this episode, there are multiple times Ahna refers to a handout that the attendees of the Thrive Summit received as part of her presentation. A link to that handout will be in the Episode Notes and I highly recommend you download it. It takes all the information that you will hear in the interview and dives even deeper into each topic. I've read the entire handout and it's really a must have.

EPISODE NOTES:

• True results come with testing and individualization
• Inflammation and joint health
• Spasticity
• Sleep
• Macronutrients
• Hydration/Dehydration
• Inflammation as it relates to added sugars
• How the inflammation presents itself
• CRP
• Blood sugar dysregulation
• Neurotransmitter balance
• Sugar from fruits
• Sports drinks
• Weight gain
• Hormone imbalance
• Spasticity
• Circadian rhythm
• Defining neurotransmitters
• Serotonin
• Dopamine
• GABA is a big one! Why you need it.
• Why too much Glutamate can be a problem
• Baclofen and GABA
• Ingestion is not the same as absorption
• Magnesium and the neurotransmitter connection
• Magnesium glycinate
• GABA and sleep
• Sleep
• How much sleep you should be getting with MS
• No sleep, no healing
• Inflammation and oxidative stress
• Don't skip carbs
• Choosing the right carbohydrates
• Good carbs and bad carbs
• Choosing whole foods sources
• Why the glycemic index matters
• Protein for healing
• Protein and exercise
• Nine essential amino acids
• A vegan or vegetarian approach and why it's harder work
• Vitamin B12 is not found in plants
• MS and the fat controversy
• Omega 3 intake to balance Omega 6
• Good fats and bad fats
• What about butter?
• Macronutrients
• A challenge to drink more water
• Carbonated beverages
• Should you drink water before or after exercise?

LINKS:

5 to Thrive Handout

THE MS GYM

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For today’s episode we'll join Heather at her long-term care facility in Alberta, Canada. During our time together will learn more about Heather and how she:

• Was diagnosed with MS
• Grappled with the choices of MS medications
• Learned about an anti-inflammatory diet
• Managed her MS symptoms while working
• Travelled overseas for an invasive procedure
• Struggled with repeated post-op infections
• Made the transition to a long-term care facility
• Is using The MS Gym to grow stronger
• Wants to be a light and inspiration to her fellow residents
• Has found great purpose and enjoyment in co-writing a trilogy of novels
• Has managed through multiple lockdowns in her long-term care facility
• Looks forward to being out in beauty and nature very soon

Links:

The MS Gym

Global News Interview: Residents Complete Book Trilogy during COVID-19

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In this episode, I'm speaking to renowned neurologist, Dr. Mitzi Joi Williams of Atlanta, Georgia, regarding the increasingly popular mode of medical communication called telemedicine. At no other time in the history of medicine has this option to communicate with our health care professionals been more important. In addition to a behind the scenes look at telemedicine, we discuss the many advantages of this mode of communication and what we can expect in the future. This interview is # 3 of 4 from the MS Gym's Thrive Summit, previously available only to Summit attendees. I'm excited to be able to share this exclusive info with all of you.

EPISODE NOTES:

• What is telemedicine?
• Video assessment
• Who is the perfect candidate for telemedicine?
• What are physicians loving about telemedicine
• Who telemedicine is NOT for
• Telemedicine and insurance billing/reimbursement
• Will telemedicine become the norm?
• How to give a neurologic exam online
• HIPPA in the age of online medicine
• Ensuring online security
• Interstate access to doctors
• Prescribing medications
• Top 3 advantages of telemedicine versus in-person appointments
• Telemedicine is not only for during a pandemic
• The future of telemedicine for doctors and patients

LINKS:

DR. MITZI JOI WILLIAMS

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mitzi: Joi Life Wellness Group

For more information on Dr. Mitzi, visit her personal website, to book her as a speaker, purchase her books, or read her blog, at https://drmitzijoimd.com/

Instagram: @thenerdyneurologist

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Join us today as we delve into the life of one of our international MS Gym family members, all the way from Ireland.

Learn how Denise:

• Was diagnosed with MS
• Coped with various MS medications
• Underwent a month long hospital stay due to a relapse
• Decided to travel to Russia to undergo HSCT
• Recovered from treatment during the onset of Covid lockdowns
• Found The MS Gym
• Learned to "trust the process"
• Achieved incredible walking victories through consistent effort & belief

LINKS:

MS Gym

Motivation Monday: If you can walk 3 steps...You can walk 30

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I'm excited to share that I've been given permission to release yet another exclusive interview from last summer's Thrive Summit that was previously only available to the MS Gym membership. The topic of discussion is ANXIETY which can become a very real component of living with an unpredictable disease.

From identifying the differences between dealing with true anxiety or just being an overthinker, to the techniques and therapies used to treat anxiety, Dr. Miriam Franco breaks it all down for us in a way that makes it easier to digest. Whether you are currently dealing with anxiety or not, there's a lot to be learned in this episode.

EPISODE NOTES:

• What makes having anxiety different from being a worrier or overthinker?
• The human survival response and fear
• Why zebras don't get ulcers
• Over-anticipation of the future
• Is anxiety caused by MS or is it a result of living with MS?
• Mourning temporary losses
• Not knowing where to go for help
• Building a "team" of professionals to assist
• You DO get to choose your response
• When to know it's time to seek professional help
• Interrupting the circuit of stress
• The confusion around relapses
• Relapses vs. pseudo relapses
• Effective stress reduction
• Fear of being prescribed drugs for anxiety and depression
• Distinguishing between fatigue and depression
• What is neuronal reserve?
• MS fatigue is not the same as normal fatigue
• The value of rest to offset fatigue and sustaining neuronal reserve
• What is guided imagery?
• The difference between guided imagery and meditation
• Lowering injection and MRI anxiety
• Becoming a mental ally with your MS medication
• The ImageryWork app
• Claustrophobia and MRI
• Coping with anxiety in bite-sized steps

LINKS:

Dr. Miriam Franco

ImageryWork App

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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In today's episode, we chat with Annice and learn more about her own journey with MS and how:

• She was diagnosed later in life
• Love helped her overcome cancer and continues to help her live with gratitude through the challenges of MS
• Staying in the present moment has helped her overcome each day and not to be overcome by it
• She adapted the All or Something principle into her everyday life
• She finds joy doing chores
• Exercise has helped her combat fatigue and balance issues
• Her "blue man" helps her mindset
• Adopting neuroplasticity has made life better
• She found community through her Buddy Group
• She moved from being "disabled" to "differently abled"

Also visit:

THE MS GYM

Motivation Monday - ALL OR SOMETHING

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In this week's episode, I'll be sharing my interview with neurologist, Dr. Bianca Weinstock-Guttman. She's a professor of Neurology at Buffalo University, where her expertise regarding the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) and her collaborative research as to how EBV relates to MS is extensive and impressive.

This interview was originally recorded as part of The MS Gym's 2020 virtual Thrive Summit, which I had the honor of hosting last summer. While the rest of the world was on lockdown, we were reaching out to experts to share their knowledge in the fields of Anxiety, Telemedicine, Diet, and in this case, the EBV/MS connection.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Elements that contribute to EBV being a trigger to MS
• Questioning if you have MS at all
• What type of virus is EBV?
• The focus on B cells
• Can EBV remain latent?
• EBV triggers
• DMTs, immunosuppression and EBV
• Does having had mononucleosis put you at higher risk of MS?
• Mononucleosis can be silent
• Keeping our children too clean
• The role of T cells
• Mononucleosis increases risk of MS x3
• EBV reactivation
• Aging, immunosuppression and a higher risk of herpes zoster
• Is there a treatment for EBV?

LINKS:

Dr. Bianca Weinstock-Guttman

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Join us as we delve into Trish's story and learn more about:

• Her rare neurological diagnosis
• How she found The MS Gym
• Her daily habits to improve her mindset
• How she lives with joy & laughter amidst her challenges
• Her goals and desires for the future

Links:

The MS Gym

Motivation Monday - Chemistry, Butterflies & A Rock

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In this episode, I'm joined by my MS Gym Podcast co-host, Jodi Feltham.

We're going to be chatting about what happens when you become addicted to your MS. That's right. When your MS consumes your thoughts and your discomfort becomes your comfort zone.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Getting stuck in the MS loop
• Dwelling in the moments of dread
• Doomsday thinking
• Are you aware?
• Is it easier when you're distracted
• How much can you control?
• Flexibility is a requirement
• Are you obsessing?
• How to re-route your negative thoughts
• Being present to stay grounded
• Fighting. Is it worth it?
• Negotiating with your MS
• An MS-free day
• MS is a lifetime project
• When acceptance goes sideways
• Guilty of not contributing enough
• Putting your inabilities into perspective
• Your illusion of expectations from others
• We are more than what we can physically accomplish
• Contributing behind the scenes
• You are not alone in your thoughts
• Accepting losses
• Opportunities for cultivating richer relationships
• Losing hope
• Exciting changes in The MS Gym

Links:

The MS Gym - Website - Instagram - Facebook

The MS Gym Podcast on Instagram

Brooke Slick

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Join me today as we here from Jenny Angus and her journey with MS and learn how she processed through issues of:

• Misdiagnosis
• Physical & cognitive challenges
• Loss of Identity & independence
• Isolation
• Pursing advocacy
• Becoming an Inspiration

Links:

The MS Gym Website

Motivation Monday: If you can walk 3 Steps you can walk 30

Nominou Activewear Website

Nominou Facebook Jenny Angus

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In this quickie episode, we take a look back at 2020, what we in the MS community have learned, and what we hope the population at large has taken away from this unprecedented last year.

LINKS:

Link to COVID-19: The Unexpected Equalizer episode

The MS Gym Website

The MS Gym on Facebook

The MS Gym on Instagram

Brooke Slick Website & Instagram

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EPISODE NOTES:   Each day we speak 15,000-16,000 words and think 30,000 words!   For a relationship to thrive we need to use a ratio of 5:1 positive to negative comments.   What is the relationship you have with your own body?   Do you speak words over yourself so that your body can thrive?   Our words and thoughts have a direct impact on how we view our bodies and our lives.   "Your actions will always follow your beliefs. If you accept defeat then that's what you will get".   Facing the Giants   Links: The MS Gym

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Even though it's been a crazy upside down year, there's been so much to celebrate inside The MS Gym. From member victories to the three year anniversary of The MS Gym, there've been more and more people with MS jumping on the neuroplasticity train and living life by design not by diagnosis.

Today, I sat down with Ken Allen, Trevor's right hand man and guiding force within the MS gym to get an inside look at what makes the Gym tick behind the scenes and what changes we have to look forward to in 2021.

We talk about everything from what differentiates membership content from free content to membership costs, to the exciting new options that are going to be heading your way in 2021 as their business model evolves.

So, get comfy, grab a cup of coffee or maybe some hot cocoa and get motivated about what lies ahead for you inside The MS Gym.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Ken's 6 top priorities

• Marketing Trevor's expertise

• Technology behind the scenes

• The MS Gym being pandemic-proof

• Increased interest during the Covid era

• The advantages of online vs. in-person PT

• What sets the paid membership content apart from free content

• Trevor believes in you

• Immediate and long-term victories

• The cost of membership

• The ever-changing business model

• Symptom-specific programs

• A la carte offerings

• New content coming in 2021

• Which programs are being revamped

• What is BGB?

• The MS Gym in social media

• Building lifelong friendships

• Global reach

• The MS Gym 5 years from now

LINKS:

THE MS GYM - Website

THE MS GYM - Facebook Page

THE MS GYM - Instagram

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Join us today as we talk with our own Wonder Woman, Kelly O'Connell, as she shares the challenges of balancing work, exercise, and family.

Learn more about her:

• Diagnosis and primary symptoms
• Daily schedule and how she prioritizes exercise
• Career and daily work challenges
• Motivation and her WHY
• Struggles
• Inspirational attitude
• Decision to disclose her disease to her clients
• Desire to make memories with her family
• Advice for fellow MS Gym Members

Links

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HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplant) veterans Brooke Slick and Jodi Feltham sit down for a one-on-one to discuss the differences between having HSCT done in Mexico and in Russia. These facilities are currently two of the most popular HSCT treatment facilities around the world, and due to their similar protocols, they are often the two that are most-compared before making a final decision. In this episode, Jodi and Brooke break down the differences into bite-size pieces that are easy to digest.

Be sure to check out the links below to access resources discussed in this episode.

EPISODE NOTES:

• What is HSCT?
• The types of MS and EDSS score
• Discovering HSCT
• The drugs/treatments that failed before deciding to pursue HSCT
• Choosing a facility from all the options
• The two types of protocols and which one is riskier
• The types of protocols Mexico and Russia utilize
• The cost of treatment
• Financing the treatment
• Lodging
• Which facility requires a caregiver
• Lodging
• Where does the patient stay and where do friends/family/caregivers stay?
• Creating lifelong bonds with other patients and families
• Pre-testing
• When does the chemotherapy begin?
• The #1 fear-inducing part of treatment
• Your attitude/mindset going into HSCT
• Gratitude
• The EDSS (mobility score) cutoff for acceptance
• Recovery
• Physical therapy after HSCT
• The value of The MS Gym during recovery
• A myth of HSCT
• The ultimate goal of HSCT
• The mistake of waiting until you're "bad enough"
• Beware of scam stem cell facilities
• Do your research
• If a stem cell treatment does not include chemotherapy, it isn't HSCT
• Advice to up-and-comers
• Patience during recovery is paramount
• What will set you up for disappointment?
• Is it experimental?
• Regrets

RESOURCE LINKS:

MS Society HSCT Recommendations Article

HSCT Facebook Group - Russia

HSCT Facebook Group - Mexico

Clinical Ruiz Website

National Pirogov Medical Surgical Centre Website

Brooke's HSCT Blog

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Brooke Slick

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As the world continues to adjust to the ever-changing normal it's more important than ever to find connection in a safe community.

Today's podcast highlights the many benefits of The MS Gym Coffee Chats, yet another perk of being a member.

Two of the Coffee Chat hosts, Deb & Erica, join me today to discuss:

• How the Coffee Chats came to be
• How they keep the atmosphere light and positive despite the chaos going on around us
• The connection forged between members
• The benefits of Buddy Groups
• How their own lives have been enriched as hosts

Links

The MS Gym

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Today's episode is all about wheelchair and accessible travel, but our guest, though an international expert in this field, brings way more to the table than just that. For instance,

She's an award-winning accessible travel writer, blogger and photographer, travel agent, author, entrepreneur and disability rights advocate.

She's a service disabled US Air Force veteran, full-time wheelchair user, single mother and former Miss wheelchair USA.

She's the founder of the award-winning Spin the Globe travel blog where she shares her traveling experiences from around the world in a power chair. She shares tips and tricks from her own travels, she gives fellow wheelchair users the tools and the confidence to create their own travel adventures without fear. Her travel articles have been featured in the New York Times, New Mobility Magazine and Lonely Planet and she's published three accessible travel-related books. And, I don't want to forget her 130 travel-related videos that she's created and produced from around the world. Videos led to voiceover work and that led to voiceover acting. She is a powerhouse! But there's more...

Though all Sylvia's accomplishments I've mentioned so far are related to what we're going to be talking about today, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention one of the most intriguing areas of her resume. Sylvia is an expert on Mexico's drug war and border security, and has been a frequent guest on CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, NBC Nightly News, to name a few. She's also been a guest expert on the History Channel's Brad Meltzer's Decoded in America's War on Drugs and has consulted for producers of the National Geographic Channel's Border Wars and Drugs Inc. series She is also an author of two books on these issues as well as hundreds of articles for Homeland Security publications.

To say that Sylvia is "more than her MS" wouldn't do her accomplishments any justice.

Join me now as I get the inside scoop from Sylvia on why travel post-disability IS possible, is way more accessible than you might imagine, and how your dream of traveling solo with a disability is absolutely achievable.

EPISODE NOTES:

• A quote to set the tone
• Documenting everything
• The psychological grieving process
• Preparing for what's to come
• Anticipating medical retirement
• Keeping one foot in the door of her career
• Pivoting from drug trafficking, border security and human trafficking to her passion for travel
• Travel as a form of healing
• Finding the confidence to travel alone with a disability
• How a 16-hour flight to Dubai set the bar
• Becoming a professional travel blogger and the birth of Spin the Globe
• How doing your homework on a destination is key
• Accessible travel 101
• Identifying your limitations
• Taking incremental steps to find your comfort zone
• Traveling solo
• Asking for help
• The biggest travel-related setback she's encountered so far
• Frankfurt and a broken scooter
• Timing layovers to accommodate your ability
• The country that is surprisingly more accessible than you might think
• Patience, patience, patience
• Personal boundaries
• Projecting positivity while traveling in a wheelchair
• Being grateful for what you CAN do
• Wheelchair vanity. It's a thing.
• When people look at your mobility device as cool
• Arranging MS drug therapy with your travel schedule
• Three things a traveler with a disability should never travel without
• Being resourceful when hotel accessibility is a challenge
• Wheelchair accessible cruising
• Cruising during the Covid era
• Expert advice to new wheelchair users
• Adapt and overcome
• Where to find all of Sylvia's resources

LINKS:

Spintheglobe.net - Sylvia's blog, travel consultations/opportunities, books (travel & drug war-related), photos, cool merch, media kit and more!

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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The Canadian MS Society states that:

• 77,000 Canadians live with the disease
• MS can occur at any age, but is most often diagnosed between the ages of 20-49
• MS affects individuals during the peak years for education, career and family-building
• MS is 3 times more likely to affect women than men

Today’s guest Melissa Hayes candidly shares her struggles and challenges with:

• Her Diagnosis at age 23
• Starting a new career in the midst of multiple MS symptoms
• Having multiple relapses at once
• Worsening of her disease while on a Disease Modifying Therapy (DMT)
• Raising a toddler
• Reaching out for help
• Having to enlist the help of daycare
• Family planning
• The fear of the future

But the story doesn’t end there. Melissa also shares her goals and dreams for the future with her:

• New DMT
• Finding the MS Gym
• Improvements of MS symptoms through daily exercise
• Accountability and Buddy Groups
• New baby
• Gratitude
• Belief for herself and her healing
• Vision and her "WHY"

LINKS: 

THE MS GYM

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I wanted to welcome you all back from summer break and give you a taste of what to expect this upcoming season. If you haven't already heard the announcement, Jodi Feltham, who already plays a huge role in the organization of the MS Gym behind the scenes will be joining me this season as a co-host. To say I'm thrilled would be an understatement. Jodi's episodes will be focusing on member victories, struggles and lifestyle, while my episodes will continue to feature guests related to all things MS life. Add to that, freestyle episodes where Jodi and I bounce MS-related topics off each other, plus select recordings of Jodi's fan favorite, Motivation Mondays, and the new season is guaranteed to keep you tuning in. Let's get started with Jodi's Motivational Monday from this week titled radical acceptance.

EPISODE NOTES:   Is acknowledging your current reality at the present moment - whether it's what happened or what is happening   It does not mean:   - I approve of it - I think it's fair - I like it - That I'm being passive or giving up - I agree with what happened   Why practice radical acceptance?   - Fighting reality only creates suffering - While pain is inevitable, suffering is optional - Suffering is what you do with that pain and the interpretation you put on the pain. - Acceptance brings opportunity to heal - When we accept it than we can think about how we want to change it - If we spend all our energy fighting it then we have no energy left to change it - What reality are you having difficulty accepting?   LINKS:   THE MS GYM MOTIVATION MONDAY VIDEO BROOKE SLICK

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EPISODE NOTES:

I recently had the opportunity to be part of a round table discussion that focused on how the medical history of yesterday affects the decisions of black patients in the MS community today.

At the table we have neurologist, Dr Mitzi Joi Williams aka, Dr. Mitzi, who was recently part of the MS Gym Summit; MS advocate, Damian Washington, who is also the creator of the popular YouTube vlog No Stress MS; along with MS advocate, blogger and Instagram phenom Jenna Green, creator of the blog Full of Grit and Grace.

Take a listen as Dr. Mitzi unpacks the complicated history of medical distrust for us.

RESOURCE LINKS:

DR. MITZI JOI WILLIAMS

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mitzi: Joi Life Wellness Group

For more information on Dr. Mitzi, visit her personal website, to book her as a speaker, purchase her books, or read her blog, at https://drmitzijoimd.com/

Instagram: @thenerdyneurologist

DAMIAN WASHINGTON

YouTube: No Stress MS

Instagram: @damianwashington

Twitter: @deedubs57

JENNA GREEN

Website: Full of Grit and Grace

Instagram:@thejennagreen

Mentioned in this episode:

Book: Medical Apartheid - The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times to the Present

Documentary: 13th

THE MS GYM

Host: Brooke Slick

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Hi everyone! It's Brooke, and I'm popping on to let you know about an exciting project we've been working on, and, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of our move to an interview format of the podcast.  I'm going to share some fun little statistics about the progress we've made and who we're reaching with our content. I'll also be sharing a link to registration to The MS Gym Thrive Summit below. So let's get started!

LINKS:

Link to MS Gym Thrive Summit Registration

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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One of the many advantages to belonging to the MS Gym community is getting to listen to Jodi Feltham's weekly Motivation Monday video on the MS Gym's Facebook page. This week's episode of Motivation Monday was so thought provoking, I knew it was one that our podcast listeners needed to hear. Now, let's put down our crystal balls and let Jodi put things into perspective for you.

EPISODE NOTES:

-Getting stuck in the "used tos"

-If only I had or hadn't

-Questioning past treatment choices

-Comparing your past condition with your present capabilities

-Stealing present victories

-The danger of comparison

-Living in the future

-Crystal balling for negatives and positives

-Will I be able to XYZ?

-Unproductive patterns

-The futility of future gazing

-Results obsessed or efforts focused?

-Are you proud of what you've done today?

-A timeless quotation that applies to life with MS.

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Host: Brooke Slick

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In this episode, we'll take a look at the world's response to COVID-19 through the eyes of someone with MS or a chronic illness, plus 15 predictions for life post-COVID.

EPISODE NOTES:

• MSrs watching the meltdown

• Having to think the unthinkable

• The lengths you have to go to survive

• What once was a given is now a privilege

• Watching it all go up in flames

• Sacrifices made

• Logistical hardships

• Dreams on hold

• COVID-19 doesn't give a damn

• Just another war story

• Before and after landmarks

• The gifts of unfettered time

• Are you fearful or excited about life post-COVID?

• 15 predictions for life post-COVID

• What lessons will you have learned?

• Time is a gift

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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In this impromptu episode, I'll be sharing information that I've gained regarding the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, and its impact on those who have MS.

The Coronavirus is the potentially deadly virus that reportedly surfaced in China in December of 2019 and has now swept the globe in what is now considered pandemic proportions. With this episode, I'm hoping to arm you with information that will quell your fears and help you to safely move forward as we all navigate this hopefully once in a lifetime occurrence. Just like MS, this virus knows no border, so we're ALL impacted. Please listen as I do my best to inform you about what may or may not put someone with MS at higher risk of contracting or fighting off the virus.

EPISODE NOTES:

-The interview that inspired this episode

-Dr. Aaron Boster of the Boster Center for Multiple Sclerosis and actor and MS advocate Damian Washington

-The risks that may or may not be specific to people with MS

-Does MS put you at higher risk for contracting the virus?

-Will someone with MS struggle fighting off the disease

-What symptoms to look for

-The incubation period

-How you can contract the virus

-Where the virus likes to hide

-Clean everything!

-6 tips on how to avoid contracting the virus

-Who is it high risk?

-The risk for people with MS

-The list of which MS drugs put MSrs at the highest risk

-Injectables, pills and infusions

-Damian and Dr. Boster's Q&A

LINKS:

UPDATED CDC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MASKS!

INTERVIEW - Coronavirus/COVID-19 - MS Views and News – with Damian Washington & Dr. Aaron Boster

Damian Washington’s NoStressMs - YouTube Channel

MS Views and News - YouTube Channel

Dr. Aaron Boster - YouTube Channel

The Boster Center for Multiple Sclerosis

The MS Gym

Host: Brooke Slick

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In this week's episode you'll get an exclusive look at one of the many advantages of being part of the MS Gym Membership Community. It's called Buddy Groups and it may be just what you've been looking for.

Before I do that, I want to back this up a little bit and add a little more clarity as to the difference between The MS Gym and the MS Gym Membership Community.

First, the MS Gym is the world's largest online provider of FREE neurologically-based exercises and movement methods designed to use the power of neuroplasticity to re-train the brain to move differently in order to correct unhealthy movement patterns and improving communication between nerves, muscles, and joints. All of this FREE information is easily available on The MS Gym website, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

Second, The MS Gym Membership Community, which currently has over 1,600 members, is a prescription-based opportunity with such benefits as MS-specific movement plans and exercises tailored specifically to your needs. Programs such as Sitting Strong, Movement Camp, Companion Guides, and BGB Bootcamp, in both standing and sitting versions, are just a few of the detailed, customized programs that you won't see anywhere else and are specifically designed to reteach your brain how to build alternative neuromuscular pathways, basically, to work around the nerves damaged by MS so you can get your life back.

Another fantastic benefit is the new MS Gym app where you can access all of the programs I just mentioned anywhere you go. Right from your phone.

At the core of the Membership Community is a private Facebook group called The Members Only Corner where members from around the world can interact with each other for advice, support, and direction. It's from this community that Buddy Groups came to light. It was a perfect opportunity for members to form small groups of like-minded individuals to meet up through video software such as Facebook Messenger and Zoom to chat and even exercise together. A buddy group can be based on your location, whether it be a part of the US, the UK, Australia etc, your interests like travel, knitting, crossword puzzles and the like, or it could be based on your MS-rooted problem area like foot drop, balance, wheelchair challenges, or dexterity. It can truly be whatever you want it to be. If you're interested in creating or joining a buddy group and you're already a member of The Membership Community, just do a search for #buddygroup in Facebook's Members Only Corner (MOC) and you'll find all the instructions and guidelines you'll need. It's all right there for you. Easy peasy.

Here's the fun part and the reason for today's episode. I was fortunate enough to have the members of  the original buddy group, the MSfits, agree to allow me to interview them all at the same time. I wanted to know exactly what goes on behind the scenes. What a typical buddy group session looks like, and sounds like. What are they talking about? What are they doing? How long do they last? I wanted to know it all and that's exactly what I got!

EPISODE NOTES:

-What is a Buddy Group?

-The difference between the MS Gym and the MS Gym Membership Community

-The Members Only Corner

-How Buddy Groups connect

-Finding your people

-Which software to use

-What happens during these meetups

-How often do you meet

-Using the programs from the MS Gym to exercise together

-Making an effort to stay organized, but leaving room for fun

-Cheering each other on

-Checking in each day

-Finding motivation from each other when you thought you couldn't

-Becoming a family

-It's not always about commonalities

-Dedication to getting better

-The length of meetups

-Sharing the good and the bad

-Using tips and tricks from the MS Gym programs

-Finding comfort in connection

-Meeting in person at The MS Gym Summit

-Avoiding isolation through Buddy Groups

-Giving a Buddy Group a try even if you don't think you need one

-Being accountable for each other

-The conversation is not always about The MS Gym

LINKS:

Join The MS Gym Membership Community

The MS Gym

Host: Brooke Slick

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In this episode, Trevor is joined by his beloved wife, Misty, who is a fan-favorite in the MS Gym community. Her compassionate insight paired with Trevor's in-depth knowledge of neuroplasticity and how the body can work around the damage MS inflicts makes for a dynamic duo of encouragement, inspiration and mindset molding that will leave you feeling hopeful. If you're ready to tackle your fears and reset the trajectory of your MS path, this episode is for you.

EPISODE NOTES: -What it means to progress

-Meeting you where you're at

-Success will build over time

-Your body/brain can't digest "all the things" at once

-Slow down to speed up

-Getting overwhelmed and doing nothing

-Easing into a situation

-Rethinking your idea of perfection

-How the little things can throw you off

-Incremental steps vs. cold turkey

-Don't let your fear overshadow hope

-Burning out from overdoing

-BGB Bootcamp

-Progress is not linear

-Forget the get-fixed-quick mentality

-Evaluate and purge threats

-Using resources to stay organized

-Expect setbacks

-Mastering the fundamentals

-The mortgage analogy

-Your brain adapts to demands

LINKS:

ALL OR NOTHING VS. ALL OR SOMETHING EPISODE

THE MS GYM BROOKE SLICK

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This episode addresses our frustration with able-bodied people not "getting us" and what we could be doing to alleviate the divide with communication and a differently angled perspective.

EPISODE NOTES:

• MS and social media

• Looking for confirmation that you're not the only one

• Complaining/venting

• One social media MS theme that sticks out

• How insensitive able-bodied people can be

• They just don't get us

• Should they get us?

• They don't speak our language

• Are they insensitive or are we sensitive?

• Teaching the able-bodied our language

• Communication is key

• The able-bodied are not psychic

• Asking for help even if you don't want to

• Not everybody is going to get you

• There will always be some unthoughtful, unsympathetic jerk who could ruin your day

• The able-bodied person may not even realize they're being what appears to be insensitive

• It's your responsibility to educate

• You need to teach them your language

• Forget about Aunt Harriett

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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The episode that so many of you have asked for is finally here. It's all about CBD!!

This week's guest is Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Integrated Health and Wellness & CBD Consultant, Erica Zachary, and as and added bonus, we have a special guest host, Tracy Pulkrabek. Always wondered what CBD could do for you? What it is and what it isn't? Tune in as Erica and Tracy break it all down into easily digestible bites.

EPISODE NOTES:

-The controversy

-Choosing CBD over traditional drugs

-CBD and THC products

-Realizing that it really does work

-Unrealistic fears that it's a gateway drug

-Benefits without side effects

-What exactly is CBD?

-The difference between CBD and hemp

-The different forms of CBD

-Alleviating spasticity

-Want a more restful sleep?

-The psychotropic effects of THC

-The biggest misconception about CBD

-CBD is for health not high

-What to be leery of

-A Certificate of Analysis (COA)

-No prescription required

-Insurance coverage

-Pricing

-Dosage

-Products Erica recommends

-Cooking with CBD

-Our body's ability to create our own CBD

-How CBD seeks out deficiencies

-Plants over pills

-CBD, brain fog and weight loss

-Start low, go slow

-CBD for anxiety

-Legal or not legal

LINKS:

Erica Zachary

EmpowerYOU

Life by DesignLicensed Clinical Social Worker/Integrated Health and Wellness & CBD Consultant

CBD online dispensaries

www.empoweryou2wellness.newyoupro.com

www.cbd4wellness.wakanna.com

Telemental health therapy and holistic consultation practice for women with MS

www.msyourlifeyourdesign.com

Websites for more information about the Endocannabinoid system:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576607/

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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This throwback Thursday episode is the perfect way to kick off your new year, or any day of the year for that matter! I had never heard this motivational speech from Trevor before and, wow, was I blown away. By the end of his speech, I was saying to myself "Yes! Yes! Yes! I can do this!", and you can too. If you're doubting yourself and thinking you can never win against MS, stop what you're doing right now and listen to this episode. It's time to let your rebellious side come out. 

EPISODE NOTES:

• Your year of rebellion

• It's time to rewrite your prognosis!

• In order to improve, you have to reject outside input

• Rewriting your prognosis

• Figure out what's causing stress in your life and walk away from it

• Ruthlessly protecting your recovery process

• Rebel against the dream crushers

• You don't have to be walking to claim a victory

• Changing the forecast of your future

• The MS rules don't apply to you

• You can counteract MS

• You have the resources and support to overcome

• The process of believing you can heal

-  Ignoring the naysayers

• There's no quick fix

• Daily commitment

• You won't see improvements every day

• Counteracting MS is a full-time job

• Visualizing movements you can't currently do

• Eventually your brain will feel safe enough to do something different

• Reject and rebel against your doubts

• Having MS for 20+ years and seeing improvements- It's never too late to transform your MS body

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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In today's episode, I have the good fortune of talking with Causso Moore of My Struggle is My Strength. He's an Atlanta-based MS activist, motivational speaker and social media powerhouse.

Whether you find him on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or his own website, his raw online content where he shares his own struggles and triumphs as well others around the globe, is a go-to resource for inspiration, mindset work and perspective.

If you need a kick in ass to get you moving, if you're looking for some light on a dark MS day, if you need to be reminded that MS isn't the end for you, just a new chapter, keep listening, because Causso is gonna set you straight.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Causso's Instagram presence

• Hitting rock bottom and working his way back

• How Ocrevus is helping him

• The gym was a natural choice

• Sharing the good, the bad and the ugly on video online

• Finding motivation from those he's inspired

• Nothing will change until you change your mindset

• Neuroplasticity is key

• Your perspective is your responsibility

• Finding strength in working out

• Getting out of a dark space

• Are you going to change now or never?

• Knowing when to take a break and not overdoing it

• The advantage of taking small steps to meet your goals

• Making a commitment to do what you can wherever you are

• How his documentary became a turning point in his online presence

• The My Struggle is My Strength brand

• The mission of his efforts and his brand

• Making a difference through public speaking

• The greatest gift that MS has given Causso

• Empowering and educating others

• Being diagnosed is a new chapter

• Finding a way to accomplish your goals your way

LINKS:

Causso's links:

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

His Documentary

His website - My Struggle is My Strength

Email: Mystruggleismystrength@gmail.com

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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Another classic Throwback Thursday from Trevor will get you thinking about tomorrow. Whatever it brings, how will you handle it? It could all change overnight. Are you ready?

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When the opportunity arose to have today's guest on the podcast, I was more than elated. She's an absolute superstar in the MS space. From her award-winning blog, Tripping on Air, that chronicles her life with MS, to her Instagram presence, to the recent WebMD documentary featuring her, Ardra Shephard is calling bullshit on how society views differently-abled individuals. Her content is overflowing with upfront, often comically deadpan observations about living with MS and, equally as important, living with mobility devices. Mobility devices, and learning how to live with them with confidence, grace and style for days is her jam. In today's episode, Ardra shares with us how she threw her vanity to the wind and said screw it. If there's nobody else out there representing what I want to accomplish with MS, and while using a mobility device, I'm going to be that person. And that's exactly what she's done.

EPISODE NOTES

• Why a  blog?

• When an invisible disease becomes visible

• Clearing the air by writing

• Looking for a role model that didn't exist

• The evolution of an Instagram feed

• Deciding to be the example

• Where are the people like me?

• The lack of resources on mobility device use

• Naming her device

• The guy with the fedora

• I can still be a badass with a mobility device

• You can't control what others think about disability

• Not everyone's an asshole

• MS DOES have you

• Giving yourself permission to say "This sucks!"

• The dictator that lives in your body

• When people forget you have MS

• Fixing the disabled = "less than" mentality

• When disability is marginalized

• babeswithmobilityaids

• Don't feel sorry for me

• Dreaming about walking

• Disability is expensive

• Comparing mobility devices

• A shift toward better design

• How your presence makes others feel

• Insensitive things people say

• Opting to live beyond the safety of your home

• Living a life less lived because you opted not use a mobility aid

• Social media for representation & information

• The Selma Blair effect

• Being an influencer can be a good thing

• 2020 is the year of clarity

• What Ardra's working on

• A television show based on Ardra's blog

LINKS:

Ardra's website: https://trippingonair.com/

Ardra's WebMD Documentary - 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wW7yXFp563A&feature=youtu.be

Ardra in Momentum Magazine -

http://momentummagazineonline.com/awesome-aliases/

Ardra's Optimus Prime (snazzy rollator) -

https://rollz.com/en/

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In this powerful Throwback Thursday episode, Trevor will guide you through putting down your mental weapons of MS destruction and surrendering to a more strategic plan to defeat your challenges.

EPISODE NOTES:

• Is your "fight" against MS hurting you?

• Fighting is demanding

• Fighting to maintain who you were

• The secret to healing

• Are you fighting yourself or your MS?

• Fighting to prove your self-worth

• Give up, fight or freedom. It's your choice.

• MS doesn't disqualify you from being loved and worthy

• Picking your fights

• Surrender

• You can outsmart your MS

• A strategy for healing

• MS is now part of your story

Links:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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If you want a quick shot of inspiration as we head into the holidays, be sure to tune into this week's episode where I share off-the-cuff thoughts on mobility devices and the mind games we play that hold us back from participating in life.

PLUS, you don't want to miss the challenge at the end!

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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In this Throwback Thursday classic from Trevor, he asks the question "What is your MS identity?" Now that you have MS, inevitably, your life is going to change. Are you prepared for those changes? Are you going to be able to take the hits and rebound with a win? In this episode, as usual, Trevor brings the fire as he guides you through the ever-winding road of life with MS.

EPISODE NOTES:

• What's going to change?

• Internal pain and external pain

• Loss of control

• Feeling cast out

• Relationship loss

• The world doesn't condone "taking a break"

• The shock and overwhelm of MS literature

• Choosing not to be a slave to your MS

• When you're not sure that tomorrow will be any better

• Staying connected

• You're healing may surprise you

• Suicidal thoughts

• Moving forward when there is no road

• A winning record

• How to gain wins

• A win is a win no matter the size

• Track your wins for a week

• Victor or victim? Warrior or slave?

• Learning from losing

• What is your MS identity?

• Giving is winning

• What do you want to stand for?

Links:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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In this episode, Binty, a former pharmacist and mother of two, describes her long road to diagnosis, her discovery of The MS Gym and the subsequent victories that are helping her continue to thrive despite physical setbacks.

EPISODE NOTES:

• The long road to an MS diagnosis and the clear path to The MS Gym

• Trekking poles, AFOs and assistive devices

• The symptoms that affect her most

-  Which MS Gym movement plans she relies on for relief

• Use it or lose it

• Visible victories

• Cooking is a luxury

• Once and done is not the ticket

• Approaching her children about her diagnosis

• CBD oil for sleep and spasticity

• Mindset is everything

• How she handles an MSy day

• Using Trevor's motivational speeches for a boost of inspection

• Remaining active despite MS

• Seeking out social activities customized for your condition

• The power of meditation

• Prioritizing to preserve energy

• Don't be afraid to say "not today"

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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This week, we're sharing an epic throwback episode from Coach T where he gives advice on how to navigate the stress, overwhelm and oftentimes obligation we feel during the holiday season. I just listened to the whole episode myself and I've got to say, much like a favorite holiday recipe, it's one part pep talk. two parts straight talk, with a heaping spoonful of motivation and compassion mixed in. Let the festivities begin!

Episode Notes:

• Internal stress and external stress
• The two camps of progress
• Holiday stress is a global phenomenon
• The overwhelm and added pressure of the holidays
• Preparing for potential setbacks
• The expectations others have of you
• Staying compliant to your movement program
• Thriving despite distraction
• The worst thing you can do
• Movement is the one thing that counteracts internal and external threats
• Why putting off your movement meds over the holidays is a mistake
• Stress of family and stress from lack of family
• Preparation expectation
• Asking for help is not a weakness
• Delegating what you can no longer accomplish with guilt
• Knowing when it's time to rest
• Validation
• Guard your time
• Dealing with loneliness during the holidays
• Don't take the holiday drama seriously
• Remember who you are
• Keep doing what you're doing
• Have a good time! Choose to be happy.

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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EPISODE NOTES:

• The evolution of the amount of care required over time
• Failing drugs, failing health
• When doctors don't acknowledge caregiver input
• Preserving the patient's dignity
• Being a spouse and a carer
• The price a carer can pay if they don't tend to their own healthcare needs
• Never underestimate how stress can affect a caregiver's wellbeing
• You can't care for the patient if you don't care for yourself
• Home modifications to make life easier for the patient and the caregiver
• When your home feels like a medical facility
• Handling a patient who has bouts of anger or lashes out
• The Mirror Theory
• Not taking a patient's behavior personally
• The importance of support groups
• Explaining your situation to family and friends
• How to approach a child about a parent's illness
• How organization is the key to your sanity
• Utilizing white boards and diaries
• Don't panic. Get help.
• Planning for the future when your partner has a chronic illness
• Don't stop planning for the future. Plan differently.
• Don't lose yourself. Ask for help. You are not alone.

LINKS:

MS Caregiver Support Group

Aaron and PPMS The MS Gym Brooke Slick

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Depression is one of the most common symptoms of a chronic illness. One half of the MS population will be faced with depression at some point in their journey with the disease. 

This episode's goal is to shed light on depression, not only for the patient, but for the family, friends and loved ones who care for them.

EPISODE NOTES:

• The definition of depression

• How to differentiate between sadness and depression

• What signs to look for

• A testimonial on depression from Tracy Pulkrabek

• When you lose the ability to do the things you used to

• Fear of engaging

• Isolation - What keeps you there

• How to approach someone you suspect is suffering from depression

• When you start to feel like a burden

• Rationalizing that depression is *normal"

• Communication is key

• Listening is essential

• Asking the right questions

• Opinions and judgment

• What NOT to say

• Why "cheerleading" is not always the best approach

• Depression is NOT a weakness

• How medication can precipitate depression and suicidal thoughts

• Figuring out your "why"

• The stages of grief

• Depression is not a linear journey

• Less telling and more asking

• How the MS Gym comment brought Tracy out of her shell

• Being patient with your emotions

• Moving past denial in engaging with the MS community

• Acknowledging that support groups may be one of your most valuable tools to recovery

• Helping Hands Support Groups

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health National  Hotline

-'Review of signs to look for

• Making space for conversation

• What types of medical specialists should you reach out to

LINKS:

Helping Hands Support Groups

Substance Abuse and Mental Health National Hotline - 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Psychology Today

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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Social security disability. It's a benefit we hope we never have to claim, and one so many of us hesitate to apply for. You may be saying things to yourself like...

Will I be able to afford to quit my job if I go on social security disability?

Will people think I'm giving up, looking for a free ride, or that I no longer have any value?

Am I disabled enough to qualify?

Even if I do decide to apply, I have no idea where to start.

In this episode I'll be talking one-on-one with Pittsburgh-based Attorney Dennis Liotta, of Edgar Snyder and Associates.

Dennis has been representing social security disability claimants for over 20 years. For the last decade, he's been recognized as a top legal talent by the well-respected peer review publication, Best Lawyers in America. Add to that his designation as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer, out of outstanding lawyers from over 70 areas of practice, and I was confident that I found just the right person to help me tackle this touchy and often complex subject.

EPISODE NOTES:

• The shocking percentage of initial claims denied

• How being under 50 may work against you

• How preparation can help you beat the backlog

• If your claim is denied and you need to appeal

• The application itself. Be prepared to ask for help.

• Are you disabled enough to qualify?

• What about my pride?

• Workplace accommodation

• What if I'm young or haven't worked very long?

• SSD & SSI. What's the difference?

• What does the social security administration (SSA) consider "disabled"?

• Do SSD laws vary per state?

• Back pay. What is it, and will I receive it?

• Can I work part-time and still receive disability benefits?

• What if you decide to go back to work again and realize you can't do it?

• How do disability benefits effect your taxes?

• One mistake that almost always guarantees denial!

• Does the SSA continue to monitor your health status after you begin receiving benefits?

• The #1 tip for improving your odds of approval

• Documentation. Documentation. Documentation.

• The stigma surrounding social security disability

• The two best ways to apply

• The one way you shouldn't apply

LINKS:

Attorney, Dennis Liotta, Edgar Snyder & Associates

https://www.edgarsnyder.com/our-firm/attorneys/attorney-dennis-liotta.html

Social Security Administration

https://www.ssa.gov/

The MS Gym

http://www.themsgym.com/

Brooke Slick

https://brookeslick.com/

NEW! The MS Gym Podcast on Instagram

https://bit.ly/2kX8Fro

*Social Security Disability is a Federal program of the United States government that provides assistance to people with disabilities.

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Coach Trevor's bringing the heat with a motivational speech that will recalibrate your thoughts and get you back on track.

DO ANY OF THESE SOUND LIKE YOU?

Living flare to flare?

Panicking?

Feeling alone?

Wondering how to get out of this?

Think you're backsliding?

Is MS consuming your life?

Then, STAY CALM, STAY PRESENT, STAY CONNECTED. This episode's for you!

LINKS:

The MS Gym

Brooke Slick

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In this episode of The MS Gym Podcast, the host becomes the guest, when comedic actor and MSr, Damian Washington, interviews Brooke Slick about HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplant) for MS.

Brooke, a 6+ year veteran of the treatment, explains what HSCT is, how it works, who it's for, where you can get it done and why it's currently considered your best chance at halting your disease progression.

In addition to this podcast episode, starting next week, you will be able to hear portions of this interview on Damian Washington's weekly YouTube vlog (link below) where he chronicles his journey with MS and Ocrevus as  well as discusses a plethora of MS lifestyle topics.

It's important to note that although HSCT has continued to gain exposure recently, the MS Gym was way ahead of the game when over 2 years ago, Coach Trevor Wicken designed a 30-day "Rebuild" program that's designed specifically for HSCT veterans and available in the membership.

EPISODE NOTES:

• What is HSCT?

• The logistics of HSCT

• The role stem cells play in HSCT?

• The two types of HSCT protocols

• It's all about the chemotherapy

• Safety precautions after HSCT

• Symptomatic improvements

• Criteria for acceptance

• What is EDSS and why it matters?

• DMDs slow disease progression. HSCT halts disease progression.

• How long should you wait to get HSCT?

• Recovery & expectations

• Statistics/success rates

• Does insurance cover it?

• The cost

• Mortality rates

• The best online resources for HSCT information

Damian Washington's Weekly Vlog on Multiple Sclerosis:

https://www.youtube.com/user/DigitalRidiculous

Brooke Slick - https://brookeslick.com/

The MS Gym - http//www.themsgym.com/

HSCT Resources:

General HSCT Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/hsctworldwide/

Russia HSCT Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/404629779644453/

Mexico HSCT Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mexicohsct/

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In this bonus episode on diet Post-HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplant), licensed dietitian and HSCT veteran, Ahna Crum, unravels the multi-layered task of safely redirecting your nutrition after transplant. Ahna, who's certified in integrative and functional medical nutrition therapy, holds a masters certificate in dietetics and is currently working on her 2nd master's degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine.

You've just been hit with a physiological atomic bomb! Let Ahna educate you on how to heal your body and maintain your immune health by taking control of your nutrition.

EPISODE NOTES

• Avascular necrosis

• Your second chance to avoid autoimmune disease

• Adrenal glands and physiological stress

• Steroids and their assault on your adrenal gland

• Sleep and neurotransmitter balance

• Compromised bone health

• Preventing AVN (avascular necrosis)

• Vitamin k2, Vitamin D and osteoporosis

• Genetic vulnerabilities that require customized supplementation

• How taking high-dose Vitamin D only is a disservice to bone health

• Covering all your bases with conventional medicine, functional medicine and biochemistry

• Factors that may have propelled you to require HSCT

• Thyroid health post-HSCT and the huge role it plays in overall health

• How to bolster your thyroid function

• Hormone levels and your thyroid

• The effects of chemo on your microbiome

• Your gastrointestinal tract and your central nervous system are direct targets of chemo

• The disadvantage of staying on a neutropenic diet longer than necessary

• How to know when it's safe to transition out of a neutropenic diet

• What heals your GI tract post-HSCT. It's NOT food.

• Blood work and lymphocyte subset panels

• The services/testing/courses Ahna provides and where to find her

• Don't stop with resetting your immune system!

LINKS:

Ahna Crum - Restorative Nutrition

Restorative Nutrition Facebook Page

The MS Gym - www.themsgym.com

Brooke Slick - www.brookeslick.com

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Ahna Crum - Part 2

In today's part 2 of our 3-part series, Ahna Crum, license dietitian, certified in integrative and functional medical nutrition therapy will take a closer look at which dietary choices can impede or promote the restoration of your immune system and why.

Ahna will prove once and for all that a one size diet does not fit all.

EPISODE NOTES

• Your myelin sheath and fat

• Free radicals and antioxidants

• Fatty acid profile testing

• Metal toxicity and gadolinum

• Vegan vs. animal protein diet

• What's your protein status and how it affects your neurotransmitter balance

• Where to find the right protein

• Probiotics and prebiotics

• Bacterial overgrowth and its connection to autoimmune disease

• Epigenetics and genomics

• Dietary supplements

• Vitamin D

• How your microbiome evolves from birth

• Intermittent fasting

• Vitamin E

• The services that Ahna provides to her patients

• Testing

• Courses

• Consultation

• Guidance

Links:

http://restorativenutrition.com/

https://www.facebook.com/restorativenutrition5/

www.themsgym.com

www.brookeslick.com

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Ahna Crum - Part 1

Today I'll be talking with licensed dietician Ahna Crum about the role that nutrition plays in the development of MS as well as how it can assist in reversing or managing your symptoms.

Ahna, who's certified in integrative and functional medical nutrition therapy, holds a masters in dietetics and is currently working on her 2nd master's in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine.

Her involvement in the integrative medicine movement goes beyond the fundamentals of macronutrients, micronutrients, and energy expenditure and focuses on the full health picture of each individual.

Her goal as a practitioner Is to heal the whole person physically, mentally and emotionally through food, vitamins dietary and/or herbal supplements and other complementary evidence-based treatments as a way to heal the body and prevent disease.

Through nutritional immunorestoration, Ahna works to restore health and hope to anyone suffering from autoimmune-based ailments.

Her clinical experience coupled with her own personal experience as an MS patient gives her the perspective of a practitioner but the heart of a patient.

Ahna's objective is to use targeted nutrition strategies to reverse or manage symptoms and restore health hope and vitality to her patients.

EPISODE NOTES

• I ask Ahna which three anti-inflammatory diets she would recommend
• The mistakes we're making
• The diet comparison game
• Curing MS with diet
• Ingestion does not mean digestion
• How your body is functioning at a biochemical level
• What is your microbiome and why does it matter?
• Are your sidewalks clean?
• Good bacteria and bad bacteria. What's the difference?
• Epigenetics
• Food allergies and their role in immune system health
• Food sensitivity testing
• Sneaky gluten
• What you should be eating and avoiding on an anti-inflammatory diet
• The fat controversy
• Fiber, fiber, fiber!
• Exercise and adipose tissue
• Omega 6, Omega 3 and lipid balance
• How your anti-inflammatory lifestyle should look
• A preview of Part 2 of the series

Links:

http://restorativenutrition.com

https://www.facebook.com/restorativenutrition5/

www.themsgym.com

www.brookeslick.com

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Damian Washington, actor, rapper and self-titled nerd shares his unique insight on living with MS in real life and in the public eye.

Damian's professional portfolio includes high-profile commercials like McDonald's, Realtor.com, and Planet Fitness, but if you're tuned into the MS world, Damian, a fellow MSr, has crafted a nice little niche for himself in the YouTube Vlogging world (that's Vlog with a V like in Victor). 

He uses his comedic prowess to share with and educate the MS community on all things related to living with MS. His informative, often hilarious videos feature a wide range of topics. From dietary suggestions, to travel tips to dry brushing, Damian's serving it all up with his chill style.

Press play to listen to this enlightening and fun conversation with Brooke and Damian.

Find Damian at www.damianwashington.com

YouTube Vlogs - https://www.youtube.com/user/DigitalRidiculous

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In this episode we pull back the curtain on the MS Society with MS Society Development Director, Kelly Tapper. Kelly, who has RRMS and is a veteran of HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplant) sets the record straight with a behind the scenes look at the services they provide, the complexities of research funding, and their mission to serve the MS community.

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Here is part 2 with Trevor Wicken, founder of the MS Gym. In part 2, Brooke challenges Trevor with some profound questions. What transpired, is one of the most inspirational conversations you will ever hear.

After listening to this episode you will understand why there is more hope then ever before for people living with Multiple Sclerosis and what the future holds.

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In this part 1 of 2 episode, Trevor Wicken, founder of the MS Gym, shares never before heard details about the roots of the MS Gym along with his dreams for the future trajectory of this powerhouse movement program and community.

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Coach Trevor reflects on what Memorial Day means to him

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