#mindset

Connect with Ali and celebrate launching season 10 of the podcast (ep. 95)

February 1, 2023 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Ali Strong
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: November, 2017
Superpower: Acceptance

What do you do for yourself that brings you joy? Are you someone who accepts moderation? To what extent do you find balance in life?

Check in with Ali Strong to recount her experience finding her way to and through HSCT and learn how she is feeling now at more than five years post-transplant, including her struggles with menopause, disordered eating, and mental health. Join Ali and Zen Jen in discussion about Dr. Burt’s latest book and what’s to come with the podcast.

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.

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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.

Revisit Joceline’s honest reflections and find compassion for others (S6 replay part 1)

October 12, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Joceline
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: soon in 2021?
Superpowers: doing nothing

How do you establish trust in the systems? How many doctors have you fired? How do you find patience when you find yourself on the brink?

After initially being brushed off by doctors, once diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Joceline found she wasn’t interested in pursuing medication for what she felt doctors knew very little about at the time. As she chose to pursue a natural course of treatment with Qi Gong, diet, and acupuncture, Joceline offers powerful reflections with the wisdom of hindsight in finding compassion for her younger self, who just wanted to feel ‘normal’ despite her diagnosis. 

Tune in this week to learn how after eight years of managing the diagnosis with alternative narratives and symptom etiologies, Joceline finally experienced her diagnosis-moment after finding a neurologist who appeared genuinely concerned for her well-being. Sharing details about the ups and downs of relapses, rejecting medications, and navigating modifications to walking, working, and support by the NHS medical professionals, this two-part episode offers a wealth of information and insights along the road to HSCT. As a nurse’s assistant by training, Joceline shares one of the most detailed interviews about her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and pursuit of HSCT, including sharing her strategies for fundraising and finding patience as she awaits the border to reopen.

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:

Bates Natural Vision Improvement Exercises
Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
Ahna Crum

Be inspired by Cecilia’s resilience at four years post-transplant (Ep. 89)

August 31, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Cecilia Reyes
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: July, 2018
Superpower: Resilience

To what extent has your view softened? To what extent are you learning as you move through life? Do you find blessings and opportunities in the challenges you face?

Check-in with Cecilia at four years post-transplant and learn from the many insights shared and be inspired to find a compassionate journey with yourself. From mindset and positive self-talk to diet and exercise, this conversation shines a light on the importance of patience, trusting the process, finding connection with yourself and community, and practicing resilience. 

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.

Reconnect with Ovi on her way to Puebla and learn what it means to be strong-strong (S6 replay)

July 6, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Ovi James
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: February 2021
Superpower: mindset

How well do you navigate self advocacy?

After years of terrible headaches and issues with standing and walking, Ovi ended up losing her job and her home which caused significant relapses that rendered her disabled. As a single mother, Ovi’s goal was to focus on the positive and help her son “see the light at the end of the tunnel” even though she struggled to understand everything that was going on as her family chose not to support her. With the support of various shelters and physical, occupational, and mental health therapies, Ovi was able to focus on healing and learning how to better advocate for herself. She eventually found a rheumatologist who was able to see she was struggling with more than fibromyalgia and scheduled the MRI that led to her multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

Although this interview occurred the weekend that Ovi was preparing to head to Clinica Ruiz in Mexico, it is airing while she is currently undergoing treatment and could use continued support from our HSCT community. Tune in and learn more about Ovi’s journey and how she found strength in being properly diagnosed, and keep such a positive outlook on life and how she turned inward to focus on her gifts in order to actualize the possibilities of pursuing HSCT.

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:
Social media YouTube: @ovijames and Instagram: @itsovijames
Clinica Ruiz: https://hsctmexico.com
HSCT Warriors: https://HSCTWarriors.org

Revisit our chat with Brooke Slick about managing setbacks post-HSCT (S5 replay)

June 15, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Brooke Slick
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: 2013
Superpower: surrender

Are you able to surrender to all that seems out of your control? How easy is it for you to allow things to just happen?

Revisit Brooke’s journey to HSCT and learn more about the setbacks she has faced post-HSCT, (including surgeries for trigeminal neuralgia) but also the influence of mindset, and the inspirations she has found with persevering in her battle with MS beyond HSCT. 

Tune in to check-in with our dear friend, Brooke and hear more about how she continues to support others along their journey to HSCT and celebrate the gifts of community and service to others. 

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 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.

Reconnect with Felicia and how she fought against the odds and COVID to pursue HSCT (S5 replay)

June 8, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Felicia Merritt
AI: Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: August 2020
Superpower: Feeling invincible

Have you ever suddenly realized just how much you were taking for granted? Have you been able to find internal strength? What about internal peace?

Shortly after turning 30, Felicia began experiencing vision issues and weakness. Following an intense crossfit workout, Felicia hoped she could laugh things off until she checked herself into the hospital. Her doctors referred her to Ohio State University and once surrounded by a medical team for a few days, Felicia was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2018. 

Tune in to learn more about HSCT despite COVID and details about the level of detail, treatment and care Felicia received at Clinica Ruiz, and all that she has gained in just the first couple of weeks post-HSCT. 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 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.

Revisit our catch-up with Marlo, who persevered despite a super twisted path to HSCT (S5 replay)

June 1, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Marlo Kalb
AI: Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: confidence to fight back
Superpower: 9.30.19

How will you face the many curves that lie ahead?

Diagnosed at just 13 years old, Marlo found herself eager for HSCT after doing research and listening to this podcast. First interviewed as a HSCT Hopeful during Season 2, Marlo shared her journey to become the first person transplanted in Boston. After facing administrative issues, delays, and opinions not favorable to her candidacy, tune in to learn more about how Marlo faced the multiple twists and turns that eventually led her to Clinica Ruiz. Join us in celebrating Marlo’s one-year stem-cell birthday and how HSCT has impacted her after spending 13 years living with MS.

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 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.

Meet Mendo and the positive mindset he embraces, thanks to HSCT (Ep. 84)

May 25, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Mendo Micevski
AI: Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: June 2021
Superpower: Mindset

Are you someone who prefers to live in the shadows? How well do you notice the ‘chalk and cheese’?

After years of noticing odd symptoms that doctors could not figure out, Mendo was walking to dinner one Saturday evening when his vision became blurry and doubled in his left eye. The following day he visited a specialist’s hospital in Melbourne where the doctor noticed inflammation of his optic nerve, suggested it could be multiple sclerosis, and encouraged him to get an MRI. After receiving the diagnosis in 2005, Mendo was in a bit of shock as he was unfamiliar with the disease, aside from commercials about the medications that depicted people in a wheelchair.

Tune in to learn more about the slow decline that Mendo experienced, how he learned that HSCT might be an option for him (though not in Australia), his journey to Russia, his experience during HSCT and returning to quarantine in Australia, and how he is faring and all the differences he is noticing at 10 months post-transplant. 

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.

Meet Stacy and learn from reflections as she celebrates her third stem cell birthday (Ep. 83)

May 18, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Stacy McNall
AI: Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: May 14, 2019
Superpower: being still

Are you someone who trusts the process? How do you handle the need to slow down? Are you able to find calm among the storm?

As a very active person who “lived in overdrive” as a nurse practitioner and marathoner, Stacy tended to set aside the symptoms she experienced for nearly 18 years before she was diagnosed. During her 14th marathon, Stacy tried her best to get moving but her legs would not cooperate and she finally went to see a doctor. After trying several disease-modifying therapies that did not seem to help, Stacy looked further into HSCT while she was hospitalized with a relapse and was successful enrolling in the clinical trial at Northwestern just before it ended.

From relapses to support from reiki masters, to issues with insurance, to reactions during the stem cell transplant including a blood clot, psychosis, and extreme nausea, Stacy seems to have experienced everything along the HSCT rollercoaster. 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 a 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.

Resources:
Reiki
Myofascial release
Vibration plate

Be inspired by Carolyn’s insider perspectives as she pursues HSCT at the Cleveland Clinic (Ep. 82 part 1)

May 4, 2022 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Carolyn Deming
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: scheduled May 4
Superpower: blatant honesty

Do you ponder problems or possibilities? What is your approach to finding the right mindset? How do you advocate for what you know you need?

After experiencing significant eye pain but no other symptoms, Carolyn was “utterly stunned” to be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis on her 32nd birthday. Her first significant relapse occurred just five months after. Having started a disease-modifying therapy that gave her flu-like symptoms, it wasn’t long before she carved her own path forward through several DMTs and emotions tied to the entire experience of chronic illness that led her to pursue HSCT.

Tune in to learn more about how “the power of options” has been incredibly supportive for Carolyn, some of the latest MRI technologies at Cleveland Clinic, their reverence for stem cells, and Carolyn’s insider’s perspective. 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.

Resources:

Carolyn’s blog: Mychroniclibrary.com
Cuddle clone
Matt Haig books