Simply Unbreakable

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On part 2 of this conversation, Kristy Dickinson and David Emanuel, Vice President & Head of Workplace Solutions at IDC Worldsource Insurance Network, talk about the generational differences in the values of employees and what will make employers successful in retaining their staff post-pandemic. They also discuss some of the top things people look for in a company when it comes to deciding where they want to work. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Ad music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson talks to David Emanuel, Vice President & Head of Workplace Solutions at IDC Worldsource Insurance Network. In part 1 of this conversation, they discuss how employers can use their group benefits to keep employees healthy, the impact of high cost medications on group benefits plans, and who is responsible for the cost of the plan. David explains the path he took to get into the type of work he does today and Kristy shares her experience as an employee with a rare disease. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Ad music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew continue the conversation surrounding men's mental health with Corey McCormick. In part 2 of this conversation, they talk about raising sons with the openness to talk about mental health and dealing with mental health in the workplace. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Ad music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew speak all about men's mental health with Corey McCormick. Having grown up in a culture that didn't encourage men to talk about their feelings, Corey talks about the stigma that men often face when they try to open up about their mental health struggles and the damage that can do. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Ad music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew talk about what it's like living with an invisible illness, where you may appear to be healthy physically, but that's not necessarily the case. Kristy shares a recent experience she had when she wanted to go out and do something special with her kids for the day, but ended up paying the price the next day after pushing her limits. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Ad music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Imagine having a child diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, and just when you thought you had a handle on things, another one of your children receives the same diagnosis. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew have a candid discussion with Christy Harrison on what it's like managing two children living with Type 1 Diabetes. She shares the initial shock of the diagnosis, the things they've done to normalize it, and how it was easier to cope with it the second time around.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson, and Brenda Agnew are joined by Kyla Thomson, also known as Bella Brave's mom. Bella lives with a rare disease and inspires others to be brave and find joy in the midst of the hard times. When Kyla started sharing Bella's medical updates with family and friends on social media, she did not expect the millions of people that would eventually follow their journey. Kyla shares the complicated road to getting Bella's diagnoses, the impact of organ donation, and how social media has been a way to spread joy and positivity for them. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Bella Brave Merch Bella Brave Instagram: @kylact Bella Brave TikTok: @kylact Ad music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson, and Brenda Agnew are joined by Julie Drury who is an advocate for patients, families, and caregivers across the health care system, both nationally and internationally. Julie has a very interesting life experience, having had to navigate the system as a parent and caregiver to her medically complex daughter, Kate, who lived with a rare disease. Key Takeaways: [2:10] Why is it still a fight and an effort to navigate the healthcare system? [6:36] Brenda shares a personal experience she recently had with her son. [9:37] Julie talks about her daughter Kate, who died at 8 years old. [12:17] Julie calls the Health Care system a “hot mess”. [13:07] Julie shares a personal experience transitioning in care. [16:25] 98% of the complaints from patients about the health care system are about communication. [18:07] Brenda shares her simple point of view: If you can make a conversation or a process easier, why not do it? At the end of the day it makes more sense to have good communication, no one wants to enter an adversarial situation. [20:34] Julie talks about how transitioning could work more efficiently. [25:13] Julie explores the reasons why the health care system works the way it does. [28:10] Julie speaks about the value and expertise of those who have experience in navigating the health care system. [32:22] What can we do to help fix this transition aspect? [36:09] One way to start changing things is to identify those good leaders and seek assistance from them. [37:19] Julie recommends being very strategic. [40:30] Kristy talks about transitioning to palliative care. [42:25] Julie speaks on the transition from ICU to a floor room. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.  

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew talk about setting boundaries with their family and friends as a patient or caregiver. They share some of the moments they've had to say no or take a step back, and what has helped them to improve their relationships with family and friends while managing a chronic illness.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are joined by Amanda Jodoin, Chief Operating Officer of Pancreatic Cancer Canada. They talk about the challenges surrounding a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, the support available for those who are diagnosed, and the need for more funding and research to find more effective treatment options. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. On this episode, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are joined by Dana Geall, a mother of five, including triplets with Cerebral Palsy. Dana is also the author of See Me For Me, a colourful picture book that introduces children to people with disabilities, and can help parents and teachers start important dialogues about empathy and inclusion. Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. In honour of Rare Disease Day, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew reflect on their own experiences navigating the world through the eyes of a patient or caregiver. They touch on some of the milestones and challenges they've faced over the years, including the diagnosis process, self-limiting beliefs, and participating in sports and activities.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Tweetables and quotes: “Individually we might be rare, but together we are strong."

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are thrilled to be joined by Melanie Birch for today's episode, a medical mama and advocate for her daughter Ella, who was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome at a very young age.    Key Takeaways: [1:26] Melanie shares her life when discovering her daughter, Ella, had Rett Syndrome. [6:28] Brenda talks about the case of her son using a device to communicate. [10:01] Caring for a child with a rare disease is a full-time job. [14:24] Brenda talks about how difficult is for a parent when they have to choose where they are going to put their focus on in regards to the development of their child. [20:11] Melanie shares her experience realizing she did not have the capacity to carry on with all the activities that she was recommended to do with her daughter. [23:16] Melanie and Brenda talk about how they incorporated stimulating activities into everyday life. [29:40] How did Melanie process Ella's diagnosis? It was completely scary and devastating at first. [36:07] Melanie shares how she found out more about Rett Syndrome. [41:30] Melanie shares a beautiful family memory and an amazing milestone achieved by Ella. [49:20] Melanie talks about the importance of sharing stories. [53:16] Melanie and a friend came up with the idea of making up a list of 5 things their children have accomplished in a month that they were not able to achieve before.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Kristy Wolfe Photography Follow Melanie Birch on Instagram   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “Caring for a child with a rare disease is a full-time job.”   “As a parent with a child with special needs you reach that point where you realize you cannot do it all, it is just too much on parents.”   “It is amazingly beautiful to celebrate the small achievements.”

Description: Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are accompanied by Sarah VanNetten, who is a wife, a mom, and the author of Steady as We Go!: COVID, Chicken, and a Miracle. In today's episode, Sarah shares how she unexpectedly became an advocate not only for her husband but for the healthcare system and everybody dedicating their time and efforts working for everyone affected by the pandemic.   Key Takeaways: [1:10] Sarah shares how her life changed when her husband was diagnosed with COVID. [3:33] What did Sarah's advocacy look like? [5:05] Sarah also became an advocate for the health care staff and for vaccine awareness. [7:34] Brenda talks about her position as an advocate for her son. [11:22] COVID advocacy has been different from any other kind of advocacy. [14:28] Firefighters and police received more understanding and gratitude after 911, now people are recognizing health care heroes for their efforts during the pandemic. [17:30] Do you know the cost of medical care? People should get a bill even if they don't have to pay it, just to be more aware and thankful for the treatment they are receiving. [22:21] Sarah wanted everyone to know who her husband was when he was at the hospital. [25:30] Kristy shares how humanizing patients is needed. [29:45] Gratitude and appreciation matter. [30:52] Sarah talks about the “lonely farm-wife season” and the resulting perspective shifts. [33:47] You need sadness to realize what happiness is. [34:45] What happens when COVID patients come off? [35:56] COVID does not stop the day you get out of the ICU, Sarah shares her husband's rehabilitation. [44:05] Finding purpose makes any experience worth living. [45:38] Where does Sarah see her purpose now? [53:57] Sarah realized she was stronger than she thought.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew welcome their dear friend Liz DaPonte to today's episode to be the moderator. Kristy and Brenda share a reflection about this year, their plans for the holidays, and 2022. They share their previous experiences during holidays and the adjustments they made to lessen the anxiety and stress and to be able to be present and enjoy the blessings of being with their loved ones.   Key Takeaways: [1:45] Kristy shares her plans for the holidays. [2:57] Brenda talks about the stress that comes along with the holidays. [5:12] Brenda shares how important it is for her to plan ahead. [6:35] Brenda explains what she changed in order to take some pressure out of her shoulders. [7:31] Lowering expectations can be a great resource. [12:03] Brenda talks about the traditions she wants her children to pass on to future generations. [14:12] Why do we hang so tight to certain traditions? [17:13] Brenda talks about the things she does not do anymore since she does not have the time or the energy for them. [19:15] Liz talks about the holidays last year and asks Brenda and Kristy what would be different this year for their holidays' celebrations. [21:20] Brenda talks about her plans last year. [23:08] Brenda shares the excitement of traveling again to her favorite place in the world: New York. [25:17] Kristy shares her plans and the anxiety created by the new COVID variant. [28:14] Brenda and Kristy reflect on the highlights and lowlights of this year. [36:02] What are Brenda and Kristy looking forward to in 2022? [45:23] Let's stop assuming that our experiences are the ones that our children need to have in order to be happy. [47:25] What are Brenda and Kristy's favorite things about the holidays?   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download the Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “Lower your expectations, eliminate the need for perfection.” “Look for sustainable traditions.” “Our kids don't know anything different, our experiences from childhood don't have to be theirs, as we didn't have the same experiences our parents have had.”

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are very excited to be accompanied by Dia Rahman who is a first-generation immigrant and a young caregiver working in tech. Dia is the oldest daughter in her family and became the primary caregiver to her mom in the middle of the pandemic after she had a horrific accident. She has been a patient herself since the age of 16 and that is why she uses the insights she gained from her experience as a way to navigate the health care system to advocate for her mother and her complex needs as a caregiver.   Key Takeaways: [1:26] Dia talks about herself in her role as a caregiver. [3:49] Dia talks about the transition into adapting to her role as a caregiver. [8:08] What are the differences between navigating the care system from a caregiver perspective vs being a patient? [11:17] Dia explains why documentation is everything. [14:48] Was Dia and her mother impacted by the restrictions mandated during the pandemic? [20:28] It is unrealistic to expect that a patient that does not speak the language would have what it takes to be able to navigate the health care system. [21:14] “Essential” turned into what is convenient to certain people. [24:50] Kristy, Brenda, and Dia highlight the emotional aspect of being an advocate for a loved one. [33:01] Brenda shares a personal experience while meeting a committed and empathetic doctor that treated her child. [34:33] Dia shows her appreciation of nurses' work and dedication. [35:39] How has becoming a caregiver affected Dia's health? [43:40] Dia addresses the difference in perception that people have about the life of a caregiver. [45:33] Has been a young caregiver posted greater challenges for Dia?   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Contact  Dia Rahman on Twitter   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “No one really plans to become a caregiver.” “Essential” turned into what is convenient to certain people.” “A little bit of humanity goes a long way.” “Just because someone carries it well it doesn't mean it is not heavy.”

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are joined today by Adam Johnson. Adam is a dad with a rare disease who shares his experiences to help raise awareness of life with a rare disease.   In today's episode, Adam shares openly how his journey was from starting to feel the first symptoms to actually being diagnosed. Adam realized that knowing what was going on with his health was only the first step of a long journey. Adam shares the challenges of being a parent with a rare disease and the efforts he is making to create more consciousness in regards to the lives of families that witness and experience the progress of a rare disease on one of their members.   Key Takeaways: [:55] Adam shares his personal and professional journey. [2:34] Adam was diagnosed two years ago. [4:35] Adam talks about the process he went through until he finally got diagnosed. [8:25] Adam found out he had a progressive disease called Mitochondrial Myopathy. [9:45] Being diagnosed is just the beginning of the journey. [10:50] What was the experience like for Adam when he first joined the Mitochondrial Myopathy support group? [14:38] Kristy talks about the importance of finding just one person who understands. [17:08] Adam is setting up a group for parents with a rare disease. [19:58] What does it look like for Adam to be a parent diagnosed with a rare disease? [21:10] Adam shares the initial conversation with his children about his diagnosis. [26:13] Adam shares a special tweet he did about an experience with his son. [27:33] Brenda talks about how siblings are affected when one of their brothers or sisters has a chronic condition. [30:49] Kristy speaks about the overlooked link between physical and mental health. [37:30] Kristy shares her experience dealing with postpartum depression. [39:43] Receiving a life-changing diagnosis should not be the way it currently is. [41:45] Adam talks about his efforts in taking away the stigma. [43:30] Kristy talks about her experience in regards to sharing the mental health challenges she goes through. [48:31] Adam talks about a secondary disease he has. [54:30] Adam shares his experience joining Twitter. [56:01] Prioritizing and owning your calendar is more important than you think.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Find Adam Johnson on Twitter and on Instagram Visit Rare Disease Dad   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “Don't get your hopes up about getting the diagnosis since it is usually that moment when the hard part starts.” “After being diagnosed with a rare disease your definition of being ok changes radically.” “There is an overlooked link between physical and mental health.” “Being sick is a full-time job.”

Description: Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew welcome Cynthia Davidson to talk about her experience and journey as a rare disease patient.    Key Takeaways: [1:21] Cynthia talks about her diagnosis: Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome  [3:31] Cynthia shares about the different treatments she tried with no luck. [5:48] Brenda shares about the process until achieving the right causation for the Cerebral Palsy her son was diagnosed with. [7:45] Cynthia talks about the limitations imposed by the weakness resulting from her disease. [10:01] Cynthia talks about the incredibly expensive costs of medication. [14:05] Kristy talks about access to the right medication when it is directly related to the patient's quality of life. [18:40] Advocating for your health in a time of suffering is terribly difficult but still inevitable if you want to receive the support needed. [22:11] Sometimes it is just really hard to ask for help. [24:05] It shouldn't be complicated to access medical care, but it is.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “When you are part of the rare disease community you learn more about the trials and tribulations in gaining access to treatments and how drugs are commercialized into Canada.” “Why does the burden fall on the patient or the caregiver? Why do they need to fight to receive the proper treatment?” “It shouldn't be complicated to access medical care, but it is.”

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are talking today about The Spoon Theory, a personal story by Christine Miserandino. The Spoon Theory is an essay that she wrote and had a great impact on people who are living with chronic conditions. Christine lives with Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, that creates her immune system to attack her body's healthy cells. One day, Christine was talking to a friend who was interested in knowing what it was like to live with this condition and this was the motivation for her to write the Spoon Theory. Listen to today's episode to learn more about it!

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are welcoming Kristy Wolfe, who is a storyteller photographer and a mom of two wonderful kids. Kristy is sharing in today's episode her amazing capacity to capture unique moments in photographs, pictures that are proof of resilience, that help to keep perspective and clarity over what was overcome and conquered, showing the effort invested in the journey.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are joined today by Hayley Harlock the founder of The Flipside Life, she is an advocate for physician families. Hayley is married to a vascular surgeon and a mom to three school-aged children. Hayley holds a Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and previously practiced as a medical social worker at the Hospital For Sick Children. After personally experiencing the gap in support available for physician families, Hayley founded The Flipside Life in 2019. Hayley's personal and professional experience, coupled with her natural ability to connect with others and her determination to improve the experience of physician families, uniquely position her to lead the TFSL community. Hayley now spends her days championing physician families as the CEO of The Flipside Life. For more information on the TFSL you can find them on Instagram and Facebook. *This episode was recorded in March of 2021.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are welcoming Rachel Martens to today's episode where she shares the details of her dedicated work and the importance for parents to support researchers. Rachel is a busy advocate whose son was born with a rare chromosome diagnosis, CP, and autism. She partners with CanChild as a research engagement strategist for their online group: Parents Partnering in Research. Rachel is currently affiliated with Mentorship Support for students and caregivers involved with CanChild's Family Engagement and Research Course.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are joined by Dana Deighton, the project manager of Inspire, who is sharing her amazing personal story of resilience, grit, and advocacy. Dana shares how she found out about her diagnosis, the frustration and complications of her journey to reach an effective treatment but most of all about the importance of not giving up even when everything seems to be against you. Key Takeaways: [1:48] Dana talks about her diagnosis. [14:55] Dana shares how she found out the meaning of the term “palliative care”. [22:03] Dana gets ready for surgery. [25:31] Do something every day because it will help you make it to the next day. [27:08] Every team should be the magic team. [29:10] People tend to lose hope. [35:08] Doctors are people too and they have only seen what they were exposed to. [36:48] What experiences brought Dana to such a great self-advocacy?. [40:10] Dana talks about her mother passing away and the example that her grandparents set for her. [46:59] Dana talks about her work at Inspire.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Inspire   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are discussing today about a new year started in the middle of a pandemic. As parents, guilt and shame are sometimes inevitable, but adding a bit of grace into our daily lives can completely change our perspectives while transiting these difficult times. The pandemic has given us many hardships, but also opportunities… opportunities to connect, to slow down, and to realize the value of what really matters. Listen to this episode and hear the perspectives of two mothers who are asking themselves the same questions that you have.   Key Takeaways: [2:36] Kristy talks about lockdown fatigue and the different perspectives to what is a challenge and what is not. [3:27] Brenda talks about the aspects she likes and does not like about the lockdown. [6:35] The hardship of not being able to get together with family during the holidays. [7:30] Kristy and Brenda talk about what is not coming back. [9:45] Guilt is the overriding emotion of the pandemic. [11:14] Brenda talks about the importance of academics in her family. [14:20] Add a little grace into your life. [19:31] The things that our children might remember from this pandemic. [23:26] Kids are resilient. [26:58] Kristy talks about how the relationship with her grandkids became stronger as a result of the pandemic. [29:13] Kristy and Brenda talk about their experience with their children dealing with virtual school. [36:00] In September 2021, teachers will have to figure out where each student is at. [38:48] Brenda shares about Virtual Academic Support. [44:01] Making it up to our children. [47:28] We have no idea what is that our children will remember about these times. [49:27] Just be kind.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “When you have a special condition and need to stay at home to protect your health, being in lockdown does not make any difference.” “Guilt is the overriding emotion of the pandemic.” “No good comes from sitting in a place of shame and guilt for not doing enough, especially in the middle of a pandemic.”

Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are talking today about mental health. Brenda and Kristy are both mental health advocates and they openly share their own journeys in regards to their experiences in this field.   Key Takeaways: [1:52] Brenda talks about her battle against depression and anxiety. [5:22] Mental health is as important as physical health. [5:43] Kristy talks about her struggle with mental health from a young age. [11:24] The assumption of “weakness”. [13:13] How is it that mental health struggles are still stigmatized? [14:34] Kristy shares a story. [17:47] Brenda shares her experience of going to the ER with a crisis. [23:04] The healthcare system is incredibly overburdened but that is not the patient's fault. [26:23] Do not confuse depression with disappointment or sadness. [27:04] Words matter! [28:30] An anxious parent will raise an anxious child. [29:31] The importance of talking about feelings with your children. [32:11] When emotional symptoms manifest in a physical way. [37:21] Kristy talks about how she recently developed an ulcer. [41:05] Anxiety as a result of trying to keep things together. [43:14] Addiction is also a symptom of mental health struggles. [45:06] Mental health is not something that can be fixed with a magic pill. [47:16] The guilt that comes with mental health challenges. [50:12] Kristy talks about the goal of being kinder to herself. [51:16] If all you do is survive, then that's fine! [52:37] Comparison is a thief of joy. [54:55] The power of giving yourself some grace.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App   Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: “There are some days that it takes all the willpower in myself to even just get up from the bed.” “Mental health is as important as physical health.” “Depression and anxiety are health conditions, they shouldn't be stigmatized, they need to be normalized.” “The healthcare system is incredibly overburdened but that is not the patient's fault but the cost is the patient's life.” “An anxious parent will raise an anxious child.”

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew spent years navigating the healthcare system, building relationships and finding peace from connections with others. Simply Unbreakable is a podcast dedicated to telling stories, learning from each other and forging new ways to help navigate our complex healthcare system and relationships. In Simply Unbreakable you will hear stories from resilient and inspiring people who share the stories that need to be heard.   Key Takeaways: [1:30] Kristy Dickinson introduces herself. [3:43] Kristy shares the reality of being diagnosed with a rare disease. [5:10] Being diagnosed doesn't mean that doctors know how to treat you. [7:29] Kristy talks about how the physical and mental aspects you encounter when you suffer from a rare disease. [8:30] Dealing with comorbidities is like having many diseases at once. [9:50] Managing the mental health aspect of having a rare disease. [13:08] Brenda shares some of the aspects of being a 24/7 caregiver. [16:56] Brenda shares the story of her pregnancy with twins. [21:50] Brenda talks about the moment she received a diagnosis for her child. [26:05] Brenda and Kristy share how their sons became friends at school. [27:46] Being the best advocate for your child or yourself is not always easy. [30:22] Asking for help is sometimes a struggle for a caregiver. [34:28] It shouldn't be this complex to navigate the healthcare system. [41:05] Alleviating the path for caretakers. [42:30] Brenda shares the details of her son's rare condition. [47:30] Kristy shares how some doctors assume they know about a condition and end up causing more harm than healing. [52:30] Finding a community of people who understands your journey is priceless.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Chronically Simple Simply Unbreakable Download Chronically Simple App Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.   Tweetables and quotes: "It takes 5 to 7 years to receive a proper diagnosis for a rare disease, meaning that a patient spends a decade with wrong diagnoses, uncertainty, and frustration." “Having a rare disease is losing trust and faith in your body.” “When a health care provider says ‘That's Impossible', it is the most frustrating for a patient.” “Some doctors assume they know about a condition and end up causing more harm than healing.” “You don't have to go through your struggle alone.”

Welcome to Simply Unbreakable, a podcast from Chronically Simple, hosted by Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew. Simply Unbreakable is about telling stories, learning from each other, and forging new ways to navigate the healthcare system together.