Navigating Life with Chronic Illness: A Journey of Resilience and Transformation

The Beautiful Bag

Introduction:

• Host: LeeAnne Hayden
• Guest: Stephanie Brenner

[00:00] Introduction:

• LeeAnne introduces the podcast and the guest, Stephanie Brenner.
• LeeAnne and Stephanie met at an ostomy convention.
• Stephanie's journey with chronic illness and surgeries is an inspiration to others.

[0:41] Welcome Stephanie to the Podcast:

• LeeAnne welcomes Stephanie to the podcast.
• Stephanie expresses her gratitude for being on the show.

[1:18] Stephanie's Journey with Chronic Illness:

• Stephanie shares her story, starting with her diagnosis of Crohn's disease in 2001 during high school.
• She quickly received a diagnosis and tried various medications, including steroids and Remicade.
• Stephanie discusses her journey through three surgeries: subtotal colectomy, J-pouch creation, and J-pouch closure.
• She talks about her challenges during college and how she learned to manage her condition.

[5:10] Living Life Despite Chronic Illness:

• Stephanie reflects on her determination to live life to the fullest despite her condition.
• She shares her experiences of traveling and studying abroad, even when advised against it by doctors.
• Stephanie highlights the importance of making the most of life's opportunities.

[11:18] Embracing Life with a Permanent Ostomy:

• Stephanie discusses her decision to undergo a permanent ostomy in 2018 after her J-pouch surgeries.
• She emphasizes the positive impact it had on her quality of life.
• Stephanie also talks about her breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy in 2019.
• She acknowledges the resilience and adaptability required to navigate these challenges.

[14:34] Overcoming Hesitations and Fears:

• Stephanie shares her initial hesitation and fears about undergoing surgeries.
• She talks about the anticipatory anxiety and the mental struggle to make the decision.
• Stephanie encourages others to find ways to cope with the anxiety and fear surrounding surgeries.

[16:50] Mental Health and Chronic Illness:

• LeeAnne and Stephanie discuss the importance of mental health when living with chronic illness.
• Stephanie highlights the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and trauma among individuals with chronic illnesses.
• She explains how these conditions manifest and affect patients' daily lives.

[20:05] Coping Strategies for Mental Health:

• Stephanie discusses various coping strategies for managing mental health, including psychoeducation.
• She emphasizes the significance of connecting with one's body and exploring sensations.
• Stephanie encourages grounding exercises, joyful movement, breathwork, and sensory support.
• She mentions referring patients to somatic therapists and EMDR specialists for trauma-related issues.
• Stephanie promotes self-compassion and self-care.

[24:05] Connecting with the Body:

• LeeAnne shares her experience with somatic therapy and connecting with her body.
• Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding the body's protective mechanisms.
• She encourages the use of pronouns to personalize the body's needs and feelings.
• Stephanie suggests practicing self-compassion and treating oneself as a caring guardian.

[26:07] Conclusion:

• LeeAnne and Stephanie discuss the ongoing journey of self-love and self-acceptance.
• Stephanie reminds everyone that navigating life with a chronic illness is a collective journey.
• LeeAnne thanks Stephanie for sharing her inspiring story and insights.

Find Stephanie:

https://chronicillnesspsychotherapy.com

Rome Foundation https://romegipsych.org