<p>Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie's diagnosis of hip dysplasia which led to osteoarthritis, her hip replacement surgeries in 2022 and 2023, and her experience running the Boston Marathon. Carrie emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, having a strong support and care team, and setting mini goals during recovery. </p><p>They also candidly talk about the emotional struggle with post-marathon blues and how time, support, and new goals helped Carrie overcome it. Overall, Carrie aims to give hope to others facing similar medical challenges.</p><h2>Episode at a glance:</h2><ul><li><strong>Carrie’s Arthritis and Double Hip Replacement Journey:</strong> Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie’s arthritis diagnosis and how that led to having double hip replacements.</li><li><strong>Carrie’s Experience Running the Boston Marathon:</strong> Carrie shares her experience of running in the Boston Marathon in April 2025. </li><li><strong>The Importance of Self-Advocacy and a Support Team:</strong> Cheryl and Carrie discuss the importance of advocating for yourself and having a strong support system to help you overcome challenges.</li></ul><h2>Medical disclaimer: </h2><p>All content found on<a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"> Arthritis Life</a> public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><h2>Episode Sponsors</h2><p><a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">Rheum to THRIVE,</a> an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. <a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">See all the details</a> and join the program or waitlist now! </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

<description>&lt;p&gt;Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie's diagnosis of hip dysplasia which led to osteoarthritis, her hip replacement surgeries in 2022 and 2023, and her experience running the Boston Marathon. Carrie emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, having a strong support and care team, and setting mini goals during recovery. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;They also candidly talk about the emotional struggle with post-marathon blues and how time, support, and new goals helped Carrie overcome it. Overall, Carrie aims to give hope to others facing similar medical challenges.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode at a glance:&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Carrie’s Arthritis and Double Hip Replacement Journey:&lt;/strong&gt; Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie’s arthritis diagnosis and how that led to having double hip replacements.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Carrie’s Experience Running the Boston Marathon:&lt;/strong&gt; Carrie shares her experience of running in the Boston Marathon in April 2025. &lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The Importance of Self-Advocacy and a Support Team:&lt;/strong&gt; Cheryl and Carrie discuss the importance of advocating for yourself and having a strong support system to help you overcome challenges.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Medical disclaimer: &lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;All content found on&lt;a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"&gt; Arthritis Life&lt;/a&gt; public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode Sponsors&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;Rheum to THRIVE,&lt;/a&gt; an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. &lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;See all the details&lt;/a&gt; and join the program or waitlist now! &lt;/p&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;p&gt;Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See &lt;a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com"&gt;pcm.adswizz.com&lt;/a&gt; for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode, Carrie Bradshaw returns to the Arthritis Life podcast to discuss her remarkable journey from double hip replacements to completing the Boston Marathon.

Running with Bionic Hips: Carrie Bradshaw's Marathon Milestone

<p>Together, they break down common myths about fragility, rest, and “wear and tear,” while explaining why tailored exercise programs are not only safe but essential. Dr. Andonian also offers practical guidance for managing fatigue, using slow progression, and finding trustworthy exercise resources. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand how movement can improve whole-body health with RA.</p><h2>Episode at a glance:</h2><ul><li>1. Exercise is far more than “movement” - it directly supports immune health, slows accelerated aging, and improves disease activity in RA.<br />Dr. Andonian explains how aerobic and strength training influence inflammation, cellular metabolism, and mitochondrial function in ways that go far beyond joint comfort.</li><li>2. RA is a whole-body immune disease, so exercise must be tailored, not avoided.<br />Listeners learn why joints are actually a <i>secondary</i> issue in RA, why “too fragile to exercise” is a myth, and how the right mix of aerobic, strength, and mobility work can support the cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune systems.</li><li>3. There is no one-size-fits-all exercise plan; successful programs must be personalized.<br />Dr. Andonian breaks down how arthritis type, disease location, comorbidities, and fatigue shape exercise prescriptions, and why slow progression and “exercise snacks” are essential for many patients.</li></ul><h2>Medical disclaimer: </h2><p>All content found on<a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"> Arthritis Life</a> public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><h2>Episode Sponsors</h2><p><a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">Rheum to THRIVE,</a> an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. <a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">See all the details</a> and join the program or waitlist now! </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

<description>&lt;p&gt;Together, they break down common myths about fragility, rest, and “wear and tear,” while explaining why tailored exercise programs are not only safe but essential. Dr. Andonian also offers practical guidance for managing fatigue, using slow progression, and finding trustworthy exercise resources. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand how movement can improve whole-body health with RA.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode at a glance:&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;1. Exercise is far more than “movement” - it directly supports immune health, slows accelerated aging, and improves disease activity in RA.&lt;br /&gt;Dr. Andonian explains how aerobic and strength training influence inflammation, cellular metabolism, and mitochondrial function in ways that go far beyond joint comfort.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;2. RA is a whole-body immune disease, so exercise must be tailored, not avoided.&lt;br /&gt;Listeners learn why joints are actually a &lt;i&gt;secondary&lt;/i&gt; issue in RA, why “too fragile to exercise” is a myth, and how the right mix of aerobic, strength, and mobility work can support the cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune systems.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;3. There is no one-size-fits-all exercise plan; successful programs must be personalized.&lt;br /&gt;Dr. Andonian breaks down how arthritis type, disease location, comorbidities, and fatigue shape exercise prescriptions, and why slow progression and “exercise snacks” are essential for many patients.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Medical disclaimer: &lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;All content found on&lt;a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"&gt; Arthritis Life&lt;/a&gt; public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode Sponsors&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;Rheum to THRIVE,&lt;/a&gt; an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. &lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;See all the details&lt;/a&gt; and join the program or waitlist now! &lt;/p&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;p&gt;Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See &lt;a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com"&gt;pcm.adswizz.com&lt;/a&gt; for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode, Cheryl and Eileen sit down with Dr. Brian Andonian of Duke University, whose research on exercise, aging, and rheumatic disease captured their attention at the 2025 ACR Conference. He sheds light on the powerful ways exercise influences the immune system, inflammation, cardiovascular health, and even cellular aging in rheumatoid arthritis, far beyond the outdated notion that RA is “just a joint disease.” 


Rheumer Has It: The Science of Exercise & RA

<p> She explains the key role nurse practitioners play in rheumatology and highlights the lifestyle habits, like movement and nutrition, that have made a real difference in her own health. Cayla also offers practical advice for communicating with healthcare providers and supporting yourself after a new diagnosis.</p><p>Her story is an inspiring reminder that living well with a chronic illness is not only possible, but achievable.</p><h2>Episode at a glance:</h2><ul><li>Cayla’s personal journey with axial spondyloarthritis and the challenges of getting diagnosed young</li><li>How nurse practitioners support patients in rheumatology</li><li>Lifestyle tools Cayla uses to manage her condition, including exercise and nutrition</li><li>Tips for communicating effectively with healthcare providers</li><li>Encouragement and practical advice for those newly diagnosed</li><li>Insight into living a full, meaningful life while managing chronic illness</li></ul><h2>Medical disclaimer: </h2><p>All content found on<a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"> Arthritis Life</a> public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><h2>Episode Sponsors</h2><p><a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">Rheum to THRIVE,</a> an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. <a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">See all the details</a> and join the program or waitlist now! </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

<description>&lt;p&gt; She explains the key role nurse practitioners play in rheumatology and highlights the lifestyle habits, like movement and nutrition, that have made a real difference in her own health. Cayla also offers practical advice for communicating with healthcare providers and supporting yourself after a new diagnosis.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Her story is an inspiring reminder that living well with a chronic illness is not only possible, but achievable.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode at a glance:&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Cayla’s personal journey with axial spondyloarthritis and the challenges of getting diagnosed young&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;How nurse practitioners support patients in rheumatology&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Lifestyle tools Cayla uses to manage her condition, including exercise and nutrition&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Tips for communicating effectively with healthcare providers&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Encouragement and practical advice for those newly diagnosed&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Insight into living a full, meaningful life while managing chronic illness&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Medical disclaimer: &lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;All content found on&lt;a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"&gt; Arthritis Life&lt;/a&gt; public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode Sponsors&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;Rheum to THRIVE,&lt;/a&gt; an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. &lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;See all the details&lt;/a&gt; and join the program or waitlist now! &lt;/p&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;p&gt;Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See &lt;a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com"&gt;pcm.adswizz.com&lt;/a&gt; for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode, Cheryl chats with Cayla Alexander, a rheumatology nurse practitioner who brings both medical expertise and personal insight to the discussion. Cayla shares her journey with axial spondyloarthritis, including the challenges and delayed diagnosis she faced as a young adult. 



Developing Resilience With Axial Spondyloarthritis: Cayla’s Story

<p>They also reflect on new insights into mental health, cognitive dysfunction, and  the importance of the microbiome as part of lifestyle interventions. This episode offers hope, practical advice, and the latest research to help manage your condition more effectively.</p><h2>Episode at a glance:</h2><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Rheumer Has It</li><li>00:30 Importance of the ACR Annual Conference</li><li>03:02 Sessions on Patient Health Literacy and Support Groups</li><li>07:10 Dietary Interventions and Microbiome Research</li><li>10:54 Mental Health and Fatigue in Rheumatic Diseases</li><li>15:50 Innovative Treatments: CAR T-Cell Therapy and Vagus Nerve Stimulation</li><li>19:50 GLP-1 Medications and Their Benefits</li><li>25:23 Cognitive Dysfunction in Rheumatic Diseases</li><li>29:22 Spotlight on Sjogren's Disease</li><li>31:50 Conclusion and Key Takeaways</li></ul><h2>Medical disclaimer: </h2><p>All content found on<a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"> Arthritis Life</a> public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><h2>Episode Sponsors</h2><p><a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">Rheum to THRIVE,</a> an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. <a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">See all the details</a> and join the program or waitlist now! </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

<description>&lt;p&gt;They also reflect on new insights into mental health, cognitive dysfunction, and  the importance of the microbiome as part of lifestyle interventions. This episode offers hope, practical advice, and the latest research to help manage your condition more effectively.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode at a glance:&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Introduction to Rheumer Has It&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:30 Importance of the ACR Annual Conference&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;03:02 Sessions on Patient Health Literacy and Support Groups&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;07:10 Dietary Interventions and Microbiome Research&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;10:54 Mental Health and Fatigue in Rheumatic Diseases&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;15:50 Innovative Treatments: CAR T-Cell Therapy and Vagus Nerve Stimulation&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;19:50 GLP-1 Medications and Their Benefits&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;25:23 Cognitive Dysfunction in Rheumatic Diseases&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;29:22 Spotlight on Sjogren's Disease&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;31:50 Conclusion and Key Takeaways&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Medical disclaimer: &lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;All content found on&lt;a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"&gt; Arthritis Life&lt;/a&gt; public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode Sponsors&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;Rheum to THRIVE,&lt;/a&gt; an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. &lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;See all the details&lt;/a&gt; and join the program or waitlist now! &lt;/p&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;p&gt;Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See &lt;a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com"&gt;pcm.adswizz.com&lt;/a&gt; for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

On this episode of 'Rheumer Has It,' Eileen and Cheryl delve into the latest advancements and key takeaways from the American College of Rheumatology's Annual Conference. They discuss groundbreaking treatments like CAR T-cell therapy, Neuroimmodulators like Vagus Nerve Stimulator Devices, GLP-1 medications

Rheumer Has It: Our Most Exciting Takeaways from the ACR 2025 Rheumatology Conference

<p>They share words of wisdom for individuals newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing kindness, self-compassion, and love. Helen also discusses the highlights of her experience in the Rheum to THRIVE program and how it helped her adjust to her new normal. </p><p>Helen also shares how using the PERMA model from positive psychology (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning & Accomplishment) helps keep her life and condition manageable. She encourages taking it day by day and continuously asking oneself how to love and support oneself through the journey. </p><p>This episode is a great reminder for anyone with chronic illnesses to focus on self-love to navigate the challenges of the condition.</p><h2>Episode at a glance:</h2><ul><li><strong>Helen’s Journey with Arthritis</strong>: Helen describes diagnosis and treatment journey as gloriously imperfect.</li><li><strong>Self Compassion:</strong> Helen and Cheryl discuss how having self-compassion is a great coping mechanism for those with chronic illnesses.</li><li><strong>PERMA Model:</strong> Cheryl and Helen discuss what the PERMA model is and how it can be helpful in chronic illness management.</li><li><strong>Rheum to THRIVE</strong>: Cheryl and Helen discuss Helen’s experience with the Rheum to THRIVE support group.</li></ul><h2>Medical disclaimer: </h2><p>All content found on<a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"> Arthritis Life</a> public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><h2>Episode Sponsors</h2><p><a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">Rheum to THRIVE,</a> an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. <a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/">See all the details</a> and join the program or waitlist now! </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

<description>&lt;p&gt;They share words of wisdom for individuals newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing kindness, self-compassion, and love. Helen also discusses the highlights of her experience in the Rheum to THRIVE program and how it helped her adjust to her new normal. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Helen also shares how using the PERMA model from positive psychology (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning &amp; Accomplishment) helps keep her life and condition manageable. She encourages taking it day by day and continuously asking oneself how to love and support oneself through the journey. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode is a great reminder for anyone with chronic illnesses to focus on self-love to navigate the challenges of the condition.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode at a glance:&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Helen’s Journey with Arthritis&lt;/strong&gt;: Helen describes diagnosis and treatment journey as gloriously imperfect.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Self Compassion:&lt;/strong&gt; Helen and Cheryl discuss how having self-compassion is a great coping mechanism for those with chronic illnesses.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;PERMA Model:&lt;/strong&gt; Cheryl and Helen discuss what the PERMA model is and how it can be helpful in chronic illness management.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Rheum to THRIVE&lt;/strong&gt;: Cheryl and Helen discuss Helen’s experience with the Rheum to THRIVE support group.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Medical disclaimer: &lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;All content found on&lt;a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/"&gt; Arthritis Life&lt;/a&gt; public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h2&gt;Episode Sponsors&lt;/h2&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;Rheum to THRIVE,&lt;/a&gt; an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. &lt;a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/"&gt;See all the details&lt;/a&gt; and join the program or waitlist now! &lt;/p&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;p&gt;Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See &lt;a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com"&gt;pcm.adswizz.com&lt;/a&gt; for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode, Cheryl chats with Helen Mullen, a scientist, executive coach, mother and lifelong learner who shares her “gloriously imperfect” journey with rheumatoid arthritis. 

Helen’s “Gloriously Imperfect” Journey with Arthritis

Arthritis life features real patient stories, expert advice, life hacks and more to help you feel more empowered and less alone. Host Cheryl Crow shares her insights from both as a rheumatoid arthritis patient for over twenty years and as an occupational therapist, a health profession that focuses on empowering people with health challenges to function in their daily lives.

This podcast also includes reflections on how you can have the best quality of life possible despite chronic pain, anxiety and other challenging parts of chronic illness. 

My goal is to help you manage REAL life with arthritis, beyond joint pain. Let's get started!

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