The On-Air Advocate

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series, I am excited to welcome Kristen Corrie, Owner of Sweet Abilities, Life Skills Job Coach, Special Education Teacher and employees Carla & Bret.  Kristen Corrie taught transition age young adults at Lakeland School for 13 years and helped prep them for life after school. As a special education teacher she became discouraged seeing how many of her former students were not out working in the community after they graduated from my classroom. So she started Sweet Abilities in June 2020 with the mission to provide fulfilling and accommodating work opportunities so that all abilities can shine. Sweet Abilities is a mobile ice cream/sweet treat business that serves only locally made products with no artificial dyes or flavors. More importantly they employ 8 young adults who all have varying needs and abilities.  Listen in Kristen shares more about Inclusion in the workplace, providing accommodating opportunities and following your dreams. I would highly recommend checking out the YouTube video to see Sweet Abilities in action :) - https://youtu.be/L_1qbwGo0q8   Resources: Sweet Abilities - on Facebook & Instagram  Purple Door Ice Cream  Tas-T Treats & Sweets Carrie's Crispies Pete's Pops After interview message from Kristen: I hope we helped spread the word about the need for accommodating community work environments for those with all abilities as well as showing those watching how making a dream happen IS possible!    Best Ways to Connect with The On-Air Advocate:   Send me a message: https://www.onairadvocate.com/contact   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonairadvocate   Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/c/TheOnAirAdvocate   Join the OAA Facebook community: https://bit.ly/oaacommunity   Get Your Guide Now: The Self-Care Toolkit for Special Needs Parents: https://www.onairadvocate.com/selfcaretoolkit-parents.html   Check out my book Transitioning from a Pediatrician to an Adult Physician: https://amzn.to/3OFtJM0       #meaningfulwork #inclusion #accommodatingworkenvironments 

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series

As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series, I am excited to welcome Chris Blezien.  Chris has mild Cerebral Palsy and is 40 years old. He has been actively involved in the transition process since the beginning. Which started in school where he participated in his IEP meetings since grade school. When he graduated he used the department of rehabilitation services to help navigate job shadowing as well employment opportunities through the ticket to work program.  He has had several jobs including: an internship at Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida. He was a guest services host. Additional, he has worked for Kane County Cougars baseball club in the souvenir shop as a cashier and at Walmart as a greeter.  Listen in as Chris shares his personal story along with resources and organization that he has found helpful. Plus, some areas of the transition process that could benefit from change.As we continue our Back To School & Transition Series. Best Ways to Connect: Send me a message: https://www.onairadvocate.com/contact Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonairadvocate Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/c/TheOnAirAdvocate Join the OAA Facebook community: https://bit.ly/oaacommunity Get Your Guide Now: The Self-Care Toolkit for Special Needs Parents: https://www.onairadvocate.com/selfcaretoolkit-parents.html Check out my book Transitioning from a Pediatrician to an Adult Physician: https://amzn.to/3OFtJM0        

As we kick off our Back To School & Transition Series

As we kick off our Back To School & Transition Series

It is so important as a special needs parent to surround yourself with positive energy and uplifting voices. Finding those that make you smile and feel supported. Sometimes finding those individuals isn't so easy. As many can't understand the journey we are on... Listen in as we have a quick chat about finding those uplifting voices and protecting our peace. The resources I spoke about are listed below: Get Your Guide Now: The Self-Care Toolkit for Special Needs Parents: https://www.onairadvocate.com/selfcaretoolkit-parents.html Additional Ideas & Resources: - Local library for audio books  - Audible  - Youtube videos  - Explore different podcasts  Some of My Favorites Books of 2022:  The High 5 Habit & The 5 Second Rule - Mel Robbins, The Power of One More - Ed Mylett, How Are You. Really? - Jenna Kutcher, The Gap and the Gain - Dan Sullivan and Dr. Bejamin Hardy    Best Ways to Connect: Send me a message: https://www.onairadvocate.com/contact Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonairadvocate Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/c/TheOnAirAdvocate Join the OAA Facebook community: https://bit.ly/oaacommunity Check out my book Transitioning from a Pediatrician to an Adult Physician: https://amzn.to/3OFtJM0  

Entitlement vs Eligibility Services ... What the heck does that mean? Take 10 minutes today to listen in and learn more about the tranistion process. Having a clear understanding of this before your young adult with special needs starts the transition process is crucial to set you and your family up for success.  In addition, I am so excited about our transition series that kicks off this Friday. We have almost 20 different amazing schools, organizations, employers and individuals to share ideas and resources to help as your young adult transitions high school and beyond. Make sure you are connected to us on our one of our social media platforms to get notified when we go LIVE!! It's go to be an exciting series ... you won't want to miss!    Best Ways to Connect: Send me a message: https://www.onairadvocate.com/contact Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonairadvocate Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/c/TheOnAirAdvocate Join the OAA Facebook community: https://bit.ly/oaacommunity The Self-Care Toolkit for Special Needs Parents: https://www.onairadvocate.com/selfcaretoolkit-parents.html Check out my book Transitioning from a Pediatrician to an Adult Physician: https://amzn.to/3OFtJM0

Let's be honest friends trying to sleep at the hospital can be maddening. Here are a few helpful tips from our personal  experiences sleeping at the hospital over the last 2 1/2 decades.  Also, super excited to be back after a month and a half of doing the hospital hustle with my son. Below are some of the resources I mentioned in the episode.  Thanks again for listening in ... I appreciate y'all :) Full Hospital Check List Coming Soon ...  Best Ways to Connect: Send me a message: https://www.onairadvocate.com/contact Join Me On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonairadvocate Join the OAA Facebook community: https://bit.ly/oaacommunity The Self-Care Toolkit for Caregivers: https://www.onairadvocate.com/selfcaretoolkit-caregivers.html Check out my book Transitioning from a Pediatrician to an Adult Physician: https://amzn.to/3OFtJM0 Music Box: Search Soothing Music Machine For Sleep On Amazon       

As our Summer Series continues ... The Power of Preplanning I think we can all agree that being prepared and taking time to preplan can calm chaos and overwhelm throughout each day. Listen in to today's 10 minute shorty episode ( its really 20 minutes but giving myself grace) as we go through 17 simple preplanning strategies to help you go from chaos to calm.  As I spoke about in the episode I want to share this very special new FREE resources from The On-Air Advocate: The Self-Care Toolkit for Special Needs Parents . This 15 page uplifting guide takes you through the power of affirmations, moments of gratitude, movement activities, calming practices and more. Remember self-care is the best care. Thank you for tuning in! I would love to learn more about you, your journey, and what brought you to this episode The Power of Preplanning. Send me a message here and let's connect! 

Special Needs Parenting is definitely a marathon not a sprint. Being able to give yourself grace is vital. Listen in to this 10 minute shorty episode as we go through some simple and easy ideas to implement. As I spoke about in the episode I want to share this very special new FREE resources from The On-Air Advocate: The Self-Care Toolkit for Special Needs Parents. This 15 page uplifting guide takes you through the power of affirmations, moments of gratitude, movement activities, calming practices and more. Remember self-care is the best care. Thank you for tuning in! I would love to learn more about you, your journey, and what brought you to this episode Give Yourself Grace. Send me a message here and let's connect!   

Welcome to our New Series called 10 minutes with Tammy. These shorty episodes provide quick and helpful tips, tools and strategies for parents of children, teens and young adults with special needs and complex medical conditions. In addition, giving us a transparent space to chat about our trials and triumphs. As we all navigate and advocate our way through this overwhelming but yet super amazing journey we call life.  Thank you Friends for joining me :) If you have topics you would like me to cover please head over to www.onairadvocate.com and send me a note on our contact page.  

As we continue our Cholangiocarcinoma Series I am excited to welcome, Peter Langmuir, M.D., Group Vice President, Oncology Targeted Therapies, Incyte.  Peter Langmuir, M.D. is Group Vice President of Oncology Targeted Therapeutics at Incyte.  Dr. Langmuir earned his medical degree at the Yale University School of Medicine and trained in pediatrics and pediatric hematology-oncology at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.  He has worked in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry for the past 18 years, focusing primarily on the clinical development of targeted therapies for both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Listen in as Peter shares about the collaboration between Incyte and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation with drug development & patient advisory boards.  Learn More About Cholangiocarcinoma At: https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/ Visit http://www.onairadvocate.com for information on all of our products, services & resources.  #bileductcancer  

As we continue our Cholangiocarcinoma Series I am excited to welcome, Melinda Bachini Director of Advocacy, Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.  Melinda Bachini is a 12-year survivor of cholangiocarcinoma. She was diagnosed in 2009 with Stage IV intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Her treatments have included: Liver resection, chemotherapy, clinical trial with Adoptive Cell Therapy, and pembrolizumab. Melinda is married and the mother of six children. She is passionate about patient advocacy. Her personal experience with the previous and current treatments allows for great insight to patients participating in clinical trials. Her function as moderator of the cholangiocarcinoma discussion board, allows Melinda to interact, support and educate others touched by this cancer. She shares her story with as many cancer patients as possible in hopes of giving courage to those in need. Listen in as Melinda shares her perspective as a patient and advocating for Cholangiocarcinoma.  Learn More About Cholangiocarcinoma At: https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/ Visit http://www.onairadvocate.com for information on all of our products, services & resources.   

As we continue our Cholangiocarcinoma Series I am excited to welcome to the show, Milind Javle, M.D. Milind Javle is a medical oncologist from Houston, TX. He is currently the Hubert L. and Olive Stringer Professor at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, he is also the current chair, NCI Task Force, Hepatobiliary Cancers, former chair of the International Cholangiocarcinoma Research Network, Vice President of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation: Clinical and Scientific Advisory Board. He graduated from Grant Medical College, Mumbai, India and completed his residency in SUNY, Buffalo, NY, and oncology training at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, NY. He has authored over 200 articles in peer-reviewed literature, has been the principal investigator for several phase 1-3 clinical trials and served in an advisory capacity to pharmaceutical companies, regulatory and networking bodies. He has held leadership positions in the American Society of Clinical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Conventions. He has led/ participated in pivotal clinical trial of infigratinib and ivosidenib which led to FDA approvals and is regarded as one of the international leaders in this field. Listen in as Dr. Javle helps us Get to know Cholangiocarcinoma.  Learn More About Cholangiocarcinoma At: https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/ Visit http://www.onairadvocate.com for information on all of our products, services & resources. 

As we kick off our Cholangiocarcinoma Series I am excited to welcome to the show, Stacie Lindsey, Founder and CEO of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.  Stacie Lindsey is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF). She and the Foundation were the first cancer advocacy organization to participate in the FDA's Project Livin' Label educational initiative through the video Episode 2 – Pemigatinib: The Backstory. Lindsey serves on the Steering Committee of the Global Cholangiocarcinoma Alliance, the Program Steering Committee of the Cholangiocarcinoma Summit, is a founding member of the organizing committee of the Asia Pacific Cholangiocarcinoma Conference, is a Patient Advocate on the Mayo Clinic Hepatobiliary SPORE and the Massachusetts General Hospital Hepatobiliary SPORE. She also serves on Executive Committee Member of the GI Cancers Alliance and is a Founding Member of the International Cholangiocarcinoma Research Network (ICRN), a global consortium of researchers from more than 85 leading institutions in 16 countries Listen in as Stacie shares the mission of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and the progress that has been made over the last 15 years of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.  Learn More About Cholangiocarcinoma At: https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/ Visit http://www.onairadvocate.com to learn more about our products, services & resources. 

As we continue our VEDS Series, I am so excited to welcome, Meg & Zoe.   Meg is a 41 year old mother, wife, registered nurse, and patient living with Vascular type Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS). Meg was diagnosed with the condition after several years of seeking answers for medical issues including multiple aneurysms. Meg's parents tested negative for vEDS, however her two children were found to have inherited the condition from her. Meg now works as the clinical nurse navigator for the Hoag Marfan Syndrome & Related Conditions program in Newport Beach, CA where she has focused her nursing career as an advocate for patients and families fighting rare cardiovascular connective tissue disorders. Meg and her husband, Brian, live in Southern California and make a blended family of six with Tommy (age 11), Zoe (age 11), Ben (age 9) and Izaak (age 5).   Zoe is Meg's 11 year old daughter, also living with (vEDS). Zoe was diagnosed shortly after Meg at the age of 5. While Zoe's own clinical manifestations of vEDS have been subtle, the impact of vEDS still looms in background. Having now lived more than half her life knowing she has this condition, Zoe offers a unique perspective on living with vEDS as she transitions into young adulthood.   Listen in as Meg & Zoe share their personal story and journey of living with Vascular Ehlers-Danlos.   Learn More About VEDS at : https://www.thevedsmovement.org   Learn More About The On-Air Advocate at: https://www.onairadvocate.com also check out our latest blog 11 Quick Tips For Traveling With A Chronic Illness :https://mailchi.mp/d0058c8413c4/travelingwithchronicillness

As we continue our VEDS Action Month Series, I am so excited to welcome to the show, Katie Wright, Director of The VEDS Movement.  Katie Wright was diagnosed with VEDS, or Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, in 2017. Her diagnosis provided the answer for the unexplained neck pain she had been dealing with for over a year, which turned out to be a dissected carotid artery.  Katie's diagnosis inspired her to get involved in advocacy for VEDS. She first started a YouTube channel, and then started a podcast, Staying Connected, featuring stories from other people with VEDS. In 2018, she got involved in research through work with the VEDS Collaborative, and in 2019 she joined The Marfan Foundation to launch a dedicated division for VEDS- now known as The VEDS Movement. Listen in as Katie shares all about The VEDS Movement and VEDS Action Month. Make sure you never miss out on our informative newsletters and new videos/podcasts go to www.onairadvocate.com today & sign up :)          #thevedsmovement #vedsactionmonth

As we kick off our VEDS Action Month Series, I am so excited to welcome to the show, Dr. Josephine Grima, Chief Science Officer - The Marfan Foundation.  Dr. Josephine Grima is in charge of The Marfan Foundation Research and Science Program and also helps direct The VEDS Movement. The VEDS Movement is a new division just added two years ago. The Marfan Foundation research program currently awards up to $700,000 in yearly research grants. In addition she is responsible for organizing medical symposia, outreach to the NIH and advocacy organizations, and preparing medical education material for both the lay population and the medical community.  Listen in as Dr. Josephine Grima educates us on Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and brings us up to date on current research and opportunities for treatments.  #thevedsmovement  Make sure you never miss out on our informative newsletters and new videos/podcasts go to www.onairadvocate.com today and sign up :) 

As turn our spotlight to Pancreatic Cancer Awareness, I am so excited to welcome to the show, Steve Lipshetz Communications Chair - Milwaukee Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Tricia Zenker, Survivor/Caregiver Engagement Chair with PANCAN, Bert Zenker AIA, Vice President Design Services at MSI General.   About Steve: I started to volunteer with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in January of 2011. My mother-in-law and sister-in-law both passed from the disease within 6 months of 2010. I am a native New Yorker and worked in Manhattan for 34 years before moving to Wisconsin in 2006. I have 3 sons who live in Virginia, Colorado and Johnson Creek and 2 grandchildren in Virginia and 2 in Johnson Creek. My wife is our affiliate chair and we love traveling around the country and the world.   About Tricia: Caregiver for my husband Bert who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2019.Volunteering for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN) as the Survivor/Caregiver Engagement Chair in Milwaukee. About Bert: Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2019. Treatments included chemo, radiation and the Whipple procedure. There is currently no cancer detected! Hoping to be one of the 10% of pancreatic cancer patients who survive more than 5 years.   Work at MSI General in Oconomowoc Wisconsin as an architect and the VP of Design Services.   Listen in as the group shares 2021 updates on Pancreatic Cancer: Early diagnostic efforts and this years PurpleStride Milwaukee. Resources: Milwaukee - Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Pancreatic Cancer Action Network

As we continue our spotlight on Stroke Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome, Josie Rupnick, Stroke Survivor, American Heart Association Volunteer.   Josie Rupnik suffered from a massive stroke in 2012, when she was just 36 years old. She had just traveled 16 hours by car, from Florida, back home to Wisconsin. During that trip, she developed a blood clot that traveled up through an undetected hole in her heart and into her Carotid artery.   Luckily, her family was able to spot the stroke quickly, and she was rushed to the hospital. After the stroke, she had to re-learn how to sit up and walk on her own, but since then, has made tremendous strides in her recovery, both mentally and physically. Josie was the picture of health, participating in 100-mile bike rides, when she had her stroke, so she wants people to know that they can happen to anyone.   Time is key when it comes to stroke treatment. For many strokes, the right treatment, right away, can save lives & improve recovery, so it's important to get help F.A.S.T, and look for these signs and symptoms: (F)ace drooping, (A)rm weakness, (S)peech difficulty, (T)ime to call 911.   Listen in as Josie shares her personal stroke story and why time is so important when suffering a stroke. Resources: American Heart Association - Wisconsin American Heart Association Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp

As we continue our spotlight on Mental Health Awareness Month, I am excited to welcome, Erin Browning, Ayurvedic Health Counselor & Breathwork facilitator.   Erin's education is as a speech language pathologist and she spent a decade traveling the country and teaching the nations therapists and educators about neurodiversity. She currently Lives in rural WV working locally and through technology (zoom or Skype) one on one with people dealing with decisions, transitions, or living in stressful situations. She serves on a larger scale by teaching families and professionals about their natural tendencies, caregiver type, and how this impacts day to day life bringing about chaos or calm through online courses.   Listen in Erin shares perspective on the stressors and developing self care practices during the "easy" times.

As we wrap up our Alport Awareness Series, I am so excited to welcome to the show, Grant Bonebrake & Maddie Martin, Volunteer Patient Advocate Alport Foundation.  About Grant: Grant Bonebrake is a high school senior in San Diego, CA. He was misdiagnosed with the wrong kidney disease until age 11 when he experienced hearing loss that led to proper diagnoses of Alport syndrome, a rare genetic kidney disease. His involvement with Alport Syndrome Foundation led him to become an active patient advocate. In December 2020, Grant received the national RareVoice Award (Teen Category) for Legislative Advocacy from the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases. He also volunteers with the Young Adult Representatives of Rare Disease Legislative Advocates program, and National Kidney Foundation. Grant is currently working with other teens to document the experiences and insights of young people living with Alport syndrome. About Maddie: Maddison Martin just turned 22. She was originally misdiagnosed with Glomerulonephritis at age 2 before receiving a formal diagnosis of Alport syndrome, via kidney biopsy, at 4-years-old. At the age of 20, she received the Gift of Life in the form of a kidney transplant from her high school attendance secretary, Tammy. Inspired by her Alport journey, Maddison is currently a nursing student and enjoys spending free time with her family. Listen in as Maddie & Grant share their personal journeys, the physical & emotional aspects of being a teen with rare disease and how they have embraced their diagnosis.  #AlportAwareness   

As we turn our focus to Stroke Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome, Leah Forlenza, Chest Pain & Stroke Coordinator at Ascension St. Joseph   Leah Forlenza has been a nurse working in the inner City of Milwaukee since graduating from Cardinal Stritch University in 1996. First on the floor then in the Emergency Departments at Aurora Sinai Medical Center and then at Ascension St. Joseph. Currently, she is the Chest Pain and Stroke Coordinator for Ascension St. Joseph. She is passionate about improving the health of the community she cares for.   Listen in this educational episode Stroke 101 with Leah Forlenza, Chest Pain & Stroke Coordinator at Ascension St. Joseph.   Resources: American Heart Association - Wisconsin American Heart Association Ascension

As we spotlight MPS awareness month, I am so excited to welcome, Daisy Vogt, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach & MPS Mom.   Mucopolysaccharidoses are genetic diseases affecting 1 in 25,000 children. MPS and related diseases affect virtually every organ and body system including joints, nerves and muscles. This is due to incompletely broken down glycosaminoglycan (GAG) that remains stored inside the cells in the body and begins to build up, causing progressive damage and, for many, significant pain. Individuals with MPS may present with symptoms of pain not unlike those with other degenerative diseases, including arthritis. This pain may occur from nerve pain stemming from neurologic involvement and neuropathic signals arising in the brain. There may also be joint pain that causes inflammation, stiffness and swelling in the knees, hips, hands and spine.   Listen in as Daisy shares her family's journey with MPS & how you can help spread awareness on May 15th.   #MPSAwareness

As we turn our focus to National Stress Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome, Jennifer Van Rossum, Psychotherapist and Mental Wellness Educator & Consultant.   I am a Licensed Psychotherapist (LPC) and Mental Wellness Educator & Consultant in private practice with a specialty in treating anxiety and building resilience. I have studied the human mind and behavior for over 2 decades, and I genuinely love what I do! I have special interest in the psychology, sociology and neuroscience of well-being and have advanced post-Masters training in Interpersonal Neurobiology through the MindSight Institute with Dr. Dan Siegel. I hold a certificate in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, include the use of Expressive Therapies into my practice and am skilled in Resilience Training. Outside of the therapy office, I am a Resilience and Well-being Consultant, offering my expertise to individuals and groups. I have experience as a Mental Strength Trainer for athletes and performers, teach Mindfulness-Based programs in Elementary schools, provide trainings in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) to educators, and facilitate wellness programs for organizations and corporations. I am passionate about body-brain integration and offer movement, mindfulness and meditation classes within the community. As a Colombian-born (Wisconsin-raised) adoptee, cultural compassion and diversity is also very important to me. I approach health from a functional wellness perspective in which clients are invited to explore their experiences with effort and intention in order to live a skillful, wholehearted life. In 2019 I founded 5Peaks, LLC - a wellness and lifestyle corporation whose mission is to promote human flourishing by teaching and supporting individuals, communities and organizations in science-backed strategies to help strengthen and cultivate resilience and well-being. On my favorite days, I can be found relaxing with my family, traveling near and far, practicing yoga, hiking, and chasing sunsets...oh I'm also a mom to 3 (usually) delightful boys and married to a pretty rad husband.   Listen in as we are talking All Things Stress with Jennifer Van Rossum.

As we spotlight Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month, I am excited to welcome back to the show, Jackie Dorshorst, RPM Provider/Owner of RPM+ for Autism & Gavin Schultz, Student. Jackie Shares: I am a Speech/Language Pathologist and worked in the public schools for over 20 years. I was looking for some way to help people who couldn't communicate verbally. I found RPM and opened a private practice to devote my life to helping people communicate. I have an office in Waukesha and also offer services via Zoom. I travel within the US to do workshops with families and schools. I also do international workshops. Listen in as Jackie teaches us all about RPM & Gavin helps to demonstrate. RPM is an academic teaching method that leads to communication. RPM can be used to teach students who have a variety of abilities. Resources: RPM+ for Autism, LLC Autism Solution Pieces #RPM #rapidpromptingmethod #autismacceptance #autismawareness #autismstrategies

As we spotlight this April Parkinson's Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome, Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, Chief Scientific Officer, American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)   Dr. Rebecca Gilbert joined APDA in 2018, bringing a wealth of practical experience in diagnosing and treating Parkinson's disease, as well as a strong background in fundamental and clinical science to the team. She is responsible for overseeing APDA's research portfolio in conjunction with APDA's Scientific Advisory Board, and also provides medical and clinical expertise to support APDA programming as well as print and web content.   Dr. Gilbert received her MD degree at Weill Medical College of Cornell University and PhD in Cell Biology and Genetics at the Weill Graduate School of Medical Sciences. She then completed her Neurology Residency training as well as Movement Disorders Fellowship training at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. She continues to maintain a limited schedule of patients one day a week through Bellevue Hospital Center.   Prior to joining APDA, she was an Associate Professor of Neurology at the Fresco Institute for Parkinson's and Movement Disorders, NYU Langone Medical Center where she saw Movement disorders patients at both NYU and Bellevue Hospital Center, initiated and directed the NYU Movement Disorders Fellowship, participated in clinical trials and other research initiatives for Parkinson's disease and lectured widely on Parkinson's disease.   Listen in as Dr. Gilbert explores Parkinson's Disease with us and what we need to know.   Resource: American Parkinson Disease Association #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsonsawarenessmonth

As we spotlight this April Sjogren's Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome, Janet Church, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Sjogren's Foundation.   Janet Church is the President and CEO of the Sjogren's Foundation. Sjogren's is a serious and systemic autoimmune disease affecting 4 Million Americans. The Sjogren's Foundation provides education, awareness, and research grants that support the entire Sjogren's community of patients, medical providers, and researchers. As a Sjogren's patient herself, she has a deep understanding of living with this autoimmune disease and is dedicated to leading the Foundation to conquer the complexities of Sjogren's.   Listen in as Janet Church shares her journey living with Sjogren's as well information on the amazing resources and supports available through the Sjogren's Foundation and how you can help drive awareness this April.   Resource: Sjögren's Foundation #sjogrensawarenessmonth

As we spotlight this April, Sarcoidosis Awareness Month, I am excited to welcome, Dr. Elliott Crouser, Chair of the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research' Scientific Advisory Board, Professor - Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine at Ohio State University & Mary McGowan CEO, Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research. Dr. Crouser has over 31 years of medical experience and has been a member of FSR's SAB since 2016. He is a professor of medicine at Ohio State University where he specializes in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine with a focus on translational research on systemic inflammatory diseases involving the lungs. In 25 years of supported research, Dr. Crouser's laboratory has contributed to the publication of more than 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts, including the first efforts to study sarcoidosis disease mechanisms by deeply scrutinizing genetic data (2009) and the first clinical practice guidelines for sarcoidosis which were endorsed by the American Thoracic Society in 2020. In addition to his research, Dr. Crouser served as the President of the American Association of Sarcoidosis and Other Granulomatous Disorders (AASOG) from 2017-2019 and has advocated for the sarcoidosis community through engagement with the National Institutes of Health. Mary joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research as the organization's first-ever Chief Executive Officer in 2020. As CEO, Mary serves as the primary representative and spokesperson for FSR and leads the organization's strategic vision with patient engagement, strategic partnerships, fundraising, advocacy efforts, program direction, and an aggressive communications and research agenda. Mary brings 35 years of nonprofit leadership and management experience to the role. Prior to joining FSR, she served as Executive Director at The Myositis Association (TMA.) As Executive Director of TMA, McGowan was featured and highlighted as a preeminent rare disease leader by numerous entities including American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, Global Genes and the National Organization for Rare Diseases for her innovative national campaigns including Women of Color and Myositis and her leading telemedicine initiatives for autoimmune patients during COVID-19. Prior to her time at TMA, Mary served as CEO of WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease. During her 8 years with WomenHeart, McGowan ensured the organization's long-term growth and sustainability as the leading voice for the 48 million American women living with or at risk of heart disease. McGowan also served as Executive Director of the Allergy & Asthma Network, the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating suffering and death due to asthma, allergies and related conditions. She held various positions with the American Academy of Pediatrics during her service of 18 years. McGowan earned a Master's Degree in Human Resources Development from the George Washington University and a B.A. from Trinity University. Listen in as Mary McGowan & Dr. Elliot discuss Living with Sarcoidosis. Learn More : Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research #sarcoidosisawarenessmonth

As we turn our focus to National Nutrition Month, I am so excited, Rachael Stricker, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, real food lover. wife. mom. essential oil user. jesus follower.   About Rachael : I am a mom to two teenage girls, a bonus 7 yr old boy, wife to a super cool husband, and a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP).   And oh yeah, I am a self proclaimed really good cook. Good food just makes life better, doesn't it?! I am super passionate about where our food comes from, what is in our food, and how food affects our bodies both physically, mentally, and emotionally. Life is about balance and I want to walk alongside you as you find the balance that is right for you and your family and begin to think about food in a whole new way. I can't wait to live a life well nourished with you.   Listen in as Rachael shares all about Nutritional Therapy & how food affects our bodies physically, mentally, and emotionally.

As we spotlight National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month , I am excited to welcome to the show, Stephen Estrada, Manager of Community Engagement at the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.   About Stephen: At 28, I was diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome and inoperable, stage 4 colorectal cancer. After being told I had about a year left to live, I became an advocate for young-onset colorectal cancer. I also became an advocate for my health and my care.   After 2 surgeries--one causing internal hemorrhaging during recovery that nearly killed me--chemotherapy, and a lot of research, I fired my care team and went elsewhere. This allowed me the opportunity to join a groundbreaking clinical trial with an experimental immunotherapy drug. I responded incredibly quickly to the drug and spent 5 years on the trial. After a year and a half on the drug, I was declared NED and have remained so, even after stopping treatment in November of 2019.   I have been with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance for three and a half years, where it is an honor to help share the stories of patients and caregivers affected by this disease.   Listen in as Stephen shares his personal journey, all about the Colorectal Cancer Alliance & how you can get involved this month.   Let's make colorectal health a priority again through our "Get Checked" Screening Pledge.The Screening Pledge will connect you with resources and reminders to get screened for colorectal cancer. Take the Pledge! pledge.getscreened.org Resource: Colorectal Cancer Alliance #GetScreened #TakeThePledge #TomorrowCantWait #ColorectalCancerAwareness

As we wrap up our Alport Awareness Series & support National Kidney & Alport Syndrome Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome to the show, Cassandra Smith ICU Nurse and Volunteer Patient Advocate, Alport Foundation.  Cassie Smith, a Kentucky native, is a registered nurse and mom to three young children. She was first diagnosed with Alport syndrome in late childhood. Two of her three children were diagnosed in early 2019. Both her professional and personal experiences make her passionate about patient advocacy. Cassie recently accepted the opportunity to Co-Chair the newly established Emerging Leadership Council for Alport Syndrome Foundation. In this role, she is volunteering with others to better address the unique needs of Alport patients in the 25-35 year old age range.  Listen in as Cassie shares her journey of rare disease from the perspective of patient, parent and nurse. 

As we kick of our Alport Awareness Series & support National Kidney & Alport Syndrome Awareness Month, I am so excited to welcome to the show, Kevin Schnurr, Director of Communications, Alport Syndrome Foundation.   Kevin began volunteering for Alport Syndrome Foundation in 2012 at age 26 after experiencing unexpected renal failure. After two years on dialysis, he received a living donor transplant from a close friend. Kevin's desire to help others in the rare disease community led to his position as ASF Social Media Specialist in 2014 and part-time Patient Outreach Coordinator in 2016. He has facilitated the Teen program at ASF Family Meetings, represented ASF at patient advocacy events and conferences, and co-moderates the ASF Facebook Support Group Page. In addition to his background in graphic design and experience in college administration, Kevin's perspective and communication skills as a patient bring great value to ASF.   Listen in as Kevin shares his personal journey with Alport as well all about the Alport Syndrome Foundation and the amazing resources they offer.

As we continue our Marfan Awareness Series, I am so excited to welcome, Grace Meyers, Volunteer, The Marfan Foundation.  Grace Meyers, 17, is a senior at Plymouth High School in Michigan. She be attending Eastern Michigan University next year to pursue a career in child development. Grace, who is affected by Marfan syndrome, enjoys getting involved with The Marfan Foundation. In the past, she has served as a legislative advocate and attended the Foundation's Hill Day in Washington, DC, in February 2020. She is also a member of the Foundation's Teen Council. She enjoys going to the Foundation's annual conference every year because being able to meet other teens with the same rare condition as she has "is an amazing feeling." Grace says, "Marfan Syndrome is tough, but there is definitely a positive side to it with the community." Listen in as Grace shares her personal journey with having a complex medical condition and why she feels embracing your diagnosis and connecting with others is so very important.  Learn More: www.marfan.org    

As we continue our Heart of it All Series for American Heart Month, I am so excited to welcome, Kim Christenson & Veloris Brooks, Volunteers & Heart Attack Survivors, American Heart Association About Kim:   Kim Christenson suffered a major heart attack in September 2016. She had just finished up a training session with her friend, when she started to feel a burning in her chest and unimaginable pain in her neck, jaw and back. As the pain continued to worsen, she began to recognize that something was wrong and called 911. This is where her perfect chain of survival began. Because Kim did not hesitate one more second with calling 911, the paramedics came when they did. Because the paramedics are part of the American Heart Association's Mission Lifeline program, they were able to use Kim's EKG reading to alert the hospital that they needed to prepare a Cath lab for her. Because that Cath lab was ready upon arrival, doctors were able to determine that Kim was suffering from what is known as a widow maker's heart attack: 100% blockage in the left descending artery and perform emergency surgery.   Kim coded 6 times as doctors worked to place a stent in her artery, so she is forever grateful for the help and care that she received that day and for the perfect chain of survival that has given her the opportunity to share her story with other women and spread awareness about the prevalence of heart attacks in women.   About Veloris : At age 40, Veloris Brooks was misdiagnosed for 5 months, traveling to the ER several times, with various symptoms. It was eventually discovered that her left artery was 90% blocked and the right was 50% blocked. She had to undergo a triple bypass surgery to repair her heart.   Veloris has been an active volunteer with the American Heart Association for the last few years; she is extremely passionate about the AHA's community impact and health equity work and uses her story as a testament to the importance of women advocating for themselves and their health.   Listen in as Kim & Veloris' share their personal heart journeys, why it's so important to advocate for your health & always listen to your body.

As we continue our Marfan Awareness Series, I am so excited to welcome Allison Pullins, Volunteer, The Marfan Foundation.   Allison Pullins is a healthcare technology executive with 15 years of industry experience. She has guided and executed corporate strategy, and built teams across marketing, sales, product, and customer success.   As COO of MD Ranger, Allison leads the operations of the company and charts its strategic vision. Allison serves as President of the Big City Parents Organization, which helps disadvantaged families access high-quality early childhood education in San Francisco, California. She is a member of the Strategic Development Committee of The Marfan Foundation, an organization that she volunteers for in many capacities. Allison lives in San Francisco, California, with her partner and their two children.   Her oldest child James (age five) was diagnosed with Marfan syndrome when he was two years old. James lives with multiple heart conditions, including aortic aneurysm, low vision, and low muscle tone, among other disabilities. He is a bright, curious child who enjoys math, geography, Star Wars, and music (particularly grunge rock and hip hop). James inspires Allison to increase awareness for connective tissue conditions, advocate for the rights of disabled people, and fundraise for research to eventually cure these life threatening genetic conditions.   Listen in as Allison shares her perspective and their journey with receiving the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome for their oldest son and the impact it has had on their family.   Resource: The Marfan Foundation - www.marfan.org  The On-Air Advocate - www.onairadvocate.com   #MarfanSyndrome #MarfanAwareness

As we continue to drive awareness for National Cancer Prevention Month, I am so excited to welcome, Latarsha Ancrum, Breast Cancer Survivor.   Listen in as Latarsha shares her personal journey with breast cancer and recently becoming a breast cancer survivor.   Learn more about the OAA: www.onairadvocate.com    #CancerPreventionMonth #BreastCancerAwareness

As we turn our focus to Cupid , I am excited to welcome back to the show, Tylia Flores, Author Radio show personality and Disability Activist.   Tylia Flores is a 25-year-old born with cerebral palsy. Although her condition has affected her mobility, it has never affected her will and determination to make a difference in the world. Through her many life challenges and obstacles, she discovered her passion for writing. Tylia's goal in life is to share her stories with the world. In doing so, she hopes to help others with disabilities realize that they, too, have the potential to make their dreams come true.   Listen in as Tylia shares her experiences navigating dating with a disability.   Learn more about the On-Air Advocate at - www.onairadvocate.com 

As we continue our Marfan Awareness Series, I am so excited to welcome, Maya Brown-Zimmerman, Advisor to The Marfan Foundation's Professional Advisory Board.   Maya Brown-Zimmerman, of Ohio, is a stay-at-home mom to four kids with a variety of diagnoses including Marfan syndrome, autism, and a brain injury. She has a Masters in Public Health and is the patient adviser to The Marfan Foundation's Professional Advisory Board.   Previously, she served 9 years on the Foundation's Board of Directors and helped run the Foundation's Teen Program for 10 years. In her spare time, May is involved in health care advocacy and is going back to school to become a genetic counselor. She is also an HGTV aficionado and has a blog at Musings of a Marfan Mom.   Listen in as Maya shares the importance of Creating Connections in the Marfan Community.   Resources: www.Marfan.org www.OnAirAdvocate.com 

As we continue our Heart of it All Series for American Heart Month, I am so excited to welcome, Dr. Nicole Lohr, Cardiologist & Board President, American Heart Association.   Dr. Nicole Lohr is the current Board President of the Metro Milwaukee Board of Directors for the American Heart Association. She is also a cardiologist at the Zablocki VA Medical Center, as well as an Associate Professor and the Medical Director of Cardiovascular Clinical Trials at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Not enough women know that heart disease is their greatest health threat. Among females ages 20 and older, 44.7% had some form of cardiovascular disease, and 90% of women have one or more risk factors for heart disease at some point in their lives. Paying attention to risk factors and living a healthy lifestyle can help keep heart disease at bay.Women's heart attack symptoms can also be different than symptoms in men, so it is very important than women know what to look for.   Dr. Lohr is passionate about the mission of the American Heart Association and volunteers her time, sharing important heart health information and educating women on what they can do to lessen their risk.   Listen in as Dr. Lohr shares the importance of women's heart health and making sure your listening to your body.   Resource: American Heart Association at www.Heart.org The On-Air Advocate at www.OnAirAdvocate.com