#kindness

Reconnect with Mike and celebrate one year of freedom (Ep. 98)

February 15, 2023 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Michael
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: January 17, 2022
Superpower: acceptance and grace

Where does kindness hit you? To what extent do you seek grace? How well do you find acceptance? 

We first met Mike in Season 7, shortly after he found out about HSCT. After battling with insurance and seeking HSCT at different clinics in the United States, Mike considered a variety of factors in his decision to pursue treatment in Monterrey, Mexico. As Mike works to support physical improvements despite spasticity post-transplant and a battle with COVID, he is finding room for his superpowers of acceptance and grace. Tune in to learn more about the ‘hiccups’ that Mike encountered and their resolution, as well as considerations for family and recovery. 

Be sure to visit our website, HSCTWarriorsPodcast.org where you can find notes from today’s episode, submit ideas or feedback, or connect with HSCT Warriors, Inc. and schedule time to “Talk with a Warrior”, find the latest research and resources, or explore the world map. Special thanks to musical genius Billy Alletzhauser for sharing his superpowers to produce the soundtrack, and engineer the audio to make this podcast possible. You can find us both when you subscribe on SoundCloud, iTunes or wherever you find podcasts.

It has been great to connect with Warriors worldwide, so please reach out if you’re interested in sharing your story. We would love to learn how the podcast has helped your journey with autoimmune disease so if you could take a moment, leave us a comment on instagram or share feedback on our website. We hope you’ll tune in next Wednesday for another episode, highlighting another HSCT Warrior. Until then, be a snowflake and embrace your superpowers.  Be kind.  Be well.

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician.

Learn how Rachel managed CIDP before myeloablative HSCT at the CBCI in Denver (Ep. 66)

April 14, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Rachel Gallery
AI: Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
HSCT: Oct 19, 2020
Superpower: Empathy

Do you consider yourself a lucky person? How often do you receive treatment for autoimmune disease? How layered is your circle of support?

After spending nearly a year with strange symptom progression, a neurologist was finally able to diagnose Rachel when IVIG helped to offset some of her most problematic symptoms. After five years of managing her disease with IVIG infusions every two weeks, she found herself facing rapid decline, trying a variety of aggressive treatments including cytoxan and rituxan that failed to help. 

Tune in to learn more about the clinical trial at the Colorado Blood Cancer Institute (CBCI) in Denver, and the confidence to get through the myeloablative protocol despite significant complications (namely, graft v. host disease) amid the COVID pandemic. With so many helpful tips for mindset to accept support through the tough times, illuminate invisibilities, and adjust to life with chronic illness, this conversation with Rachel offers practical strategies to make it through some really tough moments along the HSCT path.

 Be sure to visit our website, HSCTWarriorsPodcast.com where you can find notes from today’s episode, submit ideas or feedback, or connect with HSCT Warriors, Inc. and schedule time to “Talk with a Warrior”, find the latest research and resources, or explore the world map. Special thanks to musical genius Billy Alletzhauser for sharing his superpowers to produce the soundtrack, and engineer the audio to make this podcast possible. You can find us both when you subscribe on SoundCloud, iTunes or wherever you find your podcasts.

It has been great to connect with Warriors worldwide, so please reach out if you’re interested in sharing your story. We would love to learn how the podcast has helped your journey with autoimmune disease so if you could take a moment, leave us a comment on instagram or share feedback on our website. We hope you’ll tune in next Wednesday for another episode, highlighting another HSCT Warrior. Until then, be a snowflake and embrace your superpowers.  Be kind.  Be well.

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician.

Resources:
Colorado Blood Cancer Institute 
HSCT Warriors Podcast

Replay this loving kindness meditation to honor healthcare workers and find a sense of calm (replay from S4)

January 27, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warriors: everyone
Superpower: Loving kindness meditation

As we near the launch of our sixth season, revisit this special episode with our hostess zen Jen and her lifelong friend Jessica of Radically Rooted Yoga and Lifestyle Center in a guided meditation practice to extend gratitude and loving kindness to healthcare professionals and others on the front lines of the covid-19 pandemic.

Founder of Radically Rooted, Jessica Lichaa started exploring the integration of body practices through yoga in 1999 and over time has developed an emphasis on cultivating autonomic regulation through the fascia of the body. The practices led by Jessica have helped many individuals to improve the stress and trauma induced holding patterns within the tissues of the body to cultivate healthier ways of dealing with the emotional responses of life and improve overall well being.

In September of 2016 Jessica Lichaa developed a unique yoga teacher curriculum focused on neuroscience, early childhood psychology, body awareness, mindfulness, and self-compassion practices.  She integrated timeless ancient techniques with current research in neuroscience and developed a highly acclaimed yoga teacher training, that not only emphasizes asanas, philosophy and pranayam, but also manual tissue movement to assist the body in accessing the relaxation response, to foster deeper states of homeostasis, and awaken one’s immune system to detox the cellular matrix of free radicals.

The guided meditation featured in this episode can be practiced by anyone at any time to find a sense of calm and connection to self and others, and cultivate gratitude for all the healthcare professionals who are caring for so many who are battling covid-19. May we feel safe and protected… may we be happy… may we be healthy… may we be free from pain and suffering.

Feel free to reach out to Jessica anytime for more information or to learn more about the self care fascial work that is discussed in the episode.

Resources:
Radically Rooted Yoga and Lifestyle Center
JessicaLichaa@liveradicallyrooted.com

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician immediately.

Learn more about HSCT amid the global COVID pandemic from Jan-Marie and the power of patience (Ep. 48)

August 12, 2020 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Jan-Marie
AI: RRMS
HSCT: 6/20
Superpower: Patience 

Do you take doctors’ opinions as gospel? How comfortable are you asking questions and conducting research? Who helps you through tough times?

Jan-Marie

Not only does Jan-Marie set a shining example to approach life with optimism and positivity, she offers insight into what it’s like to research scientific evidence to inform opinion, foster support both emotionally and financially, and gain confidence to pursue HSCT during the COVID pandemic. As a nurse by trade, Jan-Marie used her training in evidence-based medicine to be informed about her options with disease modifying therapies that ultimately did not work. After finding herself frustrated and hopeless with the progression of her multiple sclerosis, Jan-Marie was introduced to HSCT by a girlfriend and within hours completed the application, and in days secured a schedule.

Tune in to hear more about Jan-Marie’s journey to HSCT, changes to the typical experience in Monterrey at Clinica Ruiz for COVID, and how Jan-Marie is faring the first few weeks post-transplant.Be sure to visit our website, HSCTWarriorsPodcast.com where you can find notes from today’s episode, submit ideas or feedback, or connect with HSCT Warriors, Inc. and schedule time to “Talk with a Warrior”, find the latest research and resources, or explore the world map. Special thanks to musical genius Billy Alletzhauser for sharing his superpowers to produce the soundtrack, and engineer the audio to make this podcast possible. You can find us both when you subscribe on SoundCloud, iTunes or wherever you find your podcasts.

It has been great to connect with Warriors worldwide, so please reach out if you’re interested in sharing your story. We would love to learn how the podcast has helped your journey with autoimmune disease so if you could take a moment, leave us a comment on instagram or share feedback on our website. We hope you’ll tune in next Wednesday for another episode, highlighting another HSCT Warrior. Until then, be a snowflake and embrace your superpowers.  Be kind.  Be well.

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician.

Resources:
Calm app

HSCT Warriors Podcast · Learn more about HSCT amid the global COVID pandemic from Jan-Marie and the power of patience

 

Revisit inspiration from Tamra and find resiliency among the uncertainty (replay from S3)

May 13, 2020 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Tamra Minch
AI: MS Caregiver
HSCT: April 7, 2019
Superpower: Humility

Are you able to make time for yourself when caring for others? When faced with the uncertainties in life, what do you focus on? How does resiliency inform your outlook?

Replay Tamra (1)

When her husband was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, the whirlwind experience suddenly had Tamra searching for answers and alternatives to the pharmaceuticals that only guaranteed harsh side effects with terrifying probabilities. After learning more and connecting with individuals that had gone through HSCT, Tamra’s husband decided to take the leap and forgo medications to pursue HSCT. 

Tune in and learn more about their fundraising efforts to get to Clinica Ruiz, the turnabout to pursue treatment in Chicago, and how Tamra provides support to others in the HSCT family.

Be sure to visit our website, HSCTWarriorsPodcast.com where you can find notes from today’s episode, submit ideas or feedback, or connect with HSCT Warriors, Inc. to “Talk with a Warrior”, find the latest research and resources, or explore the world map. Special thanks to musical genius Billy Alletzhauser for sharing his superpowers to produce the soundtrack, and engineer the audio to make this podcast possible. You can find us both when you subscribe on SoundCloud, iTunes or wherever you find your podcasts.

It has been great to connect with Warriors worldwide so reach out if you’re interested in sharing your story. We would definitely love to learn how the podcast has helped your journey with autoimmune disease… if you could take a moment to share your story, leave us a comment on instagram or share feedback on our website. We hope you’ll tune in next Wednesday for another episode, highlighting another HSCT Warrior. Until then, be a snowflake and embrace your superpowers.  Be kind. Be well.

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician immediately.

Enjoy Paul’s mindful positivity and joy along his marathon to HSCT (replay from S3)

April 22, 2020 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Paul Wheeler
AI: Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: April 10, 2017
Superpower: Dancing

Have you experienced the compassion of humanity? Is your approach to life more of the “cup half-empty” or “half-full” mindset? Just how bright is your outlook?

Replay Paul (1)

As someone who prefers “research to the nth degree” about medical decisions, Paul weighed the odds of HSCT and determined them better than the 100% chance his disease would progress. Thanks to HSCT, Paul has not only found clarity of mind without the burden of “cog fog” he recognizes that other unexpected improvements he has been so grateful for are not guaranteed.

Tune in to learn more about how Paul rallied the support of his family and community to help raise money in order to get from the UK to Mexico, including a “really weird” journey made of “a marathon a day” spanning 250 miles in his wheelchair. Enjoy this inspiring story of energetic joy.

Be sure to visit our website, HSCTWarriorsPodcast.com where you can find notes from today’s episode, submit ideas or feedback, or connect with HSCT Warriors, Inc. and schedule time to “Talk with a Warrior”, find the latest research and resources, or explore the world map. Special thanks to musical genius Billy Alletzhauser for sharing his superpowers to produce the soundtrack, and engineer the audio to make this podcast possible. You can find us both when you subscribe on SoundCloud, iTunes or wherever you find your podcasts.

It has been great to connect with Warriors worldwide, so please reach out if you’re interested in sharing your story. We would love to learn how the podcast has helped your journey with autoimmune disease so if you could take a moment, leave us a comment on instagram or share feedback on our website. We hope you’ll tune in next Wednesday for another episode, highlighting another HSCT Warrior. Until then, be a snowflake and embrace your superpowers.  Be kind. Be well.

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician immediately.

Join us in meditation of loving kindness to honor healthcare workers and find a sense of calm

April 8, 2020 — Leave a comment

Warrior: everyone
Superpower: Loving kindness meditation

Have you wanted to express gratitude for all the healthcare professionals who are on the front lines, responding with care for individuals battling life threatening illness? Do you know how to find calm within a state of stress and anxiety?

HSCT Warriors Podcast S4.Ep. 10 (1)

In this special episode, join our host zen Jen and her lifelong friend Jessica in a guided meditation practice to extend gratitude and loving kindness to healthcare professionals and others on the front lines of the covid-19 pandemic.

Founder of the Radically Rooted Yoga and Lifestyle Center, Jessica Lichaa started exploring the integration of body practices through yoga in 1999 and over time has developed an emphasis on cultivating autonomic regulation through the fascia of the body. The practices led by Jessica have helped many individuals to improve the stress and trauma induced holding patterns within the tissues of the body to cultivate healthier ways of dealing with the emotional responses of life and improve overall well being.

In September of 2016 Jessica Lichaa developed a unique yoga teacher curriculum focused on neuroscience, early childhood psychology, body awareness, mindfulness, and self-compassion practices.  She integrated timeless ancient techniques with current research in neuroscience and developed a highly acclaimed yoga teacher training, that not only emphasizes asanas, philosophy and pranayama, but also manual tissue movement to assist the body in accessing the relaxation response, to foster deeper states of homeostasis, and awaken one’s immune system to detox the cellular matrix of free radicals.

The guided meditation featured in this episode can be practiced by anyone at any time to find a sense of calm and connection to self and others, and cultivate gratitude for all the healthcare professionals who are caring for so many who are battling covid-19. May we feel safe and protected… may we be happy… may we be healthy… may we be free from pain and suffering.

Feel free to reach out for more information or to learn more about the practices or music highlighted in this episode. Be sure to visit our website, HSCTWarriorsPodcast.com where you can find notes from today’s episode, submit ideas or feedback, or connect with HSCT Warriors, Inc. and schedule time to “Talk with a Warrior”, find the latest research and resources, or explore the world map. Special thanks to musical genius Billy Alletzhauser for sharing his superpowers to produce the soundtrack, and engineer the audio to make this podcast possible. You can find us both when you subscribe on SoundCloud, iTunes or wherever you find your podcasts.

It has been great to connect with Warriors worldwide, so please reach out if you’re interested in sharing your story. We would love to learn how the podcast has helped your journey with autoimmune disease so if you could take a moment, leave us a comment on instagram or share feedback on our website. We hope you’ll tune in next Wednesday for another episode, highlighting another HSCT Warrior. Until then, be a snowflake and embrace your superpowers.  Be kind. Be well.

_________________________________

Jen Stansbury Koenig and the producers disclaim medical influence and responsibility for any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. If you think you have a medical problem, please contact a licensed physician immediately.

Resources:
JessicaLichaa@liveradicallyrooted.com