#positivemindset

Be inspired along Zarko’s journey to HSCT and find joy with what is (Ep. 74 part 1)

November 3, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Zarko Bilal
AI: Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: April, 2021
Superpower: positive thinking

When did you start to figure out the important things in life? How do you overcome fear of the unknown? How do you keep your mentality in tact?

After a happenstance diagnosis of MS, Zarko initially held on to the hope that his symptoms would be a one-time hit of CIS. Easy to rationalize because of all the stress he experienced, he recovered fairly quickly and set out on his career path as a new attorney. After a year, the disease caught up with him, and unfortunately he noticed new symptoms that helped confirm his diagnosis. As he consulted with research about the disease and various treatment options, he found HSCT and asked two different neurologists for their opinions.

Tune in to the first of this two-part episode to learn more about Zarko’s plans to pursue HSCT and how they were delayed by covid. 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.

Learn from HSCT hopeful Yavor and all he gains through consistency and positive mindset (Ep. 73)

October 27, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Yavor Milanov
AI: Relapsing Remitting MS
HSCT: Scheduled in March 2022
Superpower: Consistency

How well do you attune with culture? Is your mindset one of growth, or is it fixed? How do you navigate your internal compass?

After his diagnosis, Yavor felt tired and run-down facing his experience as a new immigrant working three or four jobs at a time. He experienced terrible side effects after steroids and trying an initial disease modifying therapy, so returned home to Bulgaria for a long respite. Rest, reduced stress, and time with family and friends  helped reduce his symptoms and after six months, he returned to Canada and began noticing his disease becoming more active. 

Refusing to accept an incurable disease as his destiny, Yavor made radical changes to his diet and lifestyle to become as healthy as possible. Tune in to learn more about Yavor’s experience with the Wahl’s Protocol diet, mesenchymal stem cells in Panama, how he leaned on the discipline of swimming to keep his motivation and disposition positive, and his ability to anticipate (rather than react) to what is on the horizon, including his plans to pursue HSCT in Russia.  

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.

Gain insights from Jacob’s strategies to navigate the journey to HSCT (Ep. 69)

September 29, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Jacob Kinch
AI Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: October, 2020
Superpower: new perspective

Where do you find glimmers of hope? Do you recognize the double-edged sword of multiple sclerosis?

Jacob shares so many relatable aspects of his experience with multiple sclerosis, including frustration with doctors, questionable approaches and decisions around treatment, and challenges with paying for expensive medications. Despite his best efforts with disease modifying therapies, the side effects that Jacob experienced made it dark and difficult to live with MS. Once he found HSCT and began researching, he found a glimmer of hope that was strengthened after he connected with someone at Clinica Ruiz to address his pages of questions.

Tune in and learn more about Jacob’s experience at Clinica Ruiz, navigating travel and processing other peoples’ judgments and skepticism, including doctors’ and neurologists’ opinions. 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 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 the power of intention and be inspired by Ahna’s journey with HSCT (S3 replay)

August 25, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Ahna Crum
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: April, 2016 in Moscow Russia
Superpower: Shapeshifting

What motivates you to find curiosity in life? Have you ever been let down by a one-size-fits-all approach? How equipped are you to adapt?

After suffering significant relapses from an early age, in her late twenties Ahna found HSCT through her research trying to avoid moving into an assisted living facility. With great determination and a positive mindset, Ahna found Moscow to be a  welcoming, supportive place.

As someone who leaped into HSCT without any doubts, Ahna found the recovery rollercoaster to be quite the challenge. Tune in to find out more about the post-transplant complications that Ahna faced, how she was able to find her own solutions to heal her body, and how she found her passion to become a partner for HSCT warriors along their journeys.

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.

Resources: 

What the Heck Should I eat? by Mark Hyman

Psychobiotic Revolution: Mood, Food, and the New Science of the Gut-Brain Connection by Scott C. Anderson

MS Gym Podcast

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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 immediately.

Revisit Tracey’s positive outlook and perspective on HSCT (S3 replay)

August 11, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Tracey Rossi
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: August 2018
Superpower: motivation

Are you looking to fit all the HSCT pieces together? What is your outlook on life? How often do you choose to turn a frown upside down? 

As a former surfer, Tracey became an expert in finding balance and going with the flow. Having lived with the MS monster since 2009, Tracey was shocked when Dr. Burt was surprised enough by her symptoms to expedite her enrollment in the MOST clinical trial. Tune in and hear the latest updates from Chicago when Tracey was seen for her one-year follow-up in August.

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 appreciate all your support, and if you’re looking to contribute in other ways – including volunteering or monetarily – we’d love to hear from you. 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 immediately.

Revisit Paul’s journey to HSCT and fill your cup with joy (S3 replay)

August 4, 2021 — 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 with disease more of the “cup half empty” or “half full” mindset? Just how full is your cup?

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.org 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.

Be inspired in revisiting Bethany’s journey and find confidence despite judgment (S2 replay)

June 30, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Bethany Pappalardo
Snowflake: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: 03/08/05
Superpower: heightened awareness

When you need a different course of action, how long will you bide your time? How confident are you among judgement, shock and awe? Will you be ready once you hit rock bottom?

Having so many family members plagued with autoimmune disease, Bethany had just run out of options to treat her MS when her mom happened to watch an interview with Dr. Burt. With a ‘must do’ attitude, Bethany confronted HSCT and the public eye with brave resolve. Proclaiming it to be “literally the best thing that ever happened in my life,” you’ll likely be inspired to shed any fears about HSCT when you hear more of Bethany’s journey.

Tune in to this replay from Season two and hear more about the reciprocity of community, how Bethany continues to promote HSCT and coach others on their own journeys, as well as insights on why HSCT isn’t an option offered by more doctors.

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 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:
Other HSCT veterans
Facebook groups

Revisit Eileen’s uncertainty rollercoasters, and their shift through self-care (S2 replay)

June 23, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Eileen Hushion
Snowflake: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: 01/05/17
Superpower: Knowing you have the rest of your life to look forward to

How much fear do you have when facing uncertainty? How do you adjust when riding a roller coaster? What does normal even feel like? 

Despite years of debilitating fatigue and cycling through nine different disease modifying therapies, Eileen had a suspicion that someday, stem cells would help alleviate her pain. After researching the possibility of stem cells on her own, she found immediate support from her neurologist to pursue HSCT at Northwestern in Chicago.

Tune in to hear more about her experience of living with MS for twenty years, changes experienced post-HSCT, and learn more about the recovery roller coaster that has been life changing for Eileen.

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 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 noted:
Yogaglo
Myofascial release

Revisit Brooke’s journey to HSCT in Russia and find your path to normal (S2 replay)

June 16, 2021 — 1 Comment

Warrior: Brooke Slick
Snowflake: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: May, 2013 in Moscow, Russia
Superpower: Patience

How do you navigate your diagnosis? Would you describe your perspective as positive or negative? How do you normalize your disease? 

After years of experiencing symptoms, Brooke was diagnosed with RRMS in 2006 and cycled through various disease modifying therapies, participated in a clinical trial, and sought alternatives to avoid the risk of developing PML. Despite working full time and distracting herself from the avalanche of symptoms, Brooke found herself transitioning into Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

Inspired by the first American “ninja warrior” to receive HSCT in Moscow who blogged every detail about her experience, tune in to learn more about how Brooke focused her attention and perspective on the gifts and possibilities of HSCT. Brooke’s realistic perspective helped her embrace a positive approach and tackle the treatment that worked for her.

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:
MS Gym
Yoga
Aa Maximov Hospital, Moscow Russia

Meet Erin and be inspired to find empathy and connection despite feelings of isolation (Ep. 65)

April 7, 2021 — Leave a comment

Warrior: Erin Schoenlein
AI: Multiple Sclerosis
HSCT: March 15, 2020
Superpower: energy to help other people

How wide is your view? Do you know what it feels like to be well? For how long have you been distanced? 

Having been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in high school, Erin is no stranger to advocacy for well-being and the importance of spinning challenges into positive opportunities. Although she did not qualify for the clinical trials in the United States, Erin researched her options and found herself at Clinica Ruiz just prior to the start of the global pandemic. Erin distracted herself from the chaotic stress of COVID by surrounding herself in a bubble of staying focused on positivity and gratitude expressed by others around her. During this conversation with Erin, hear more about how her experiences in Mexico and her quarantine upon returning home helped motivate her to find inclusive ways to empower others.

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:
Sail MS
Paavitforward.org
HSCTWarriors.org