I moderated a panel discussion at ReelAbilities Film Festival on The Quiet Epidemic, an eye-opening film about Lyme disease that highlights the emotional toll of patients' journeys with the illness and the scientific facts of the disease.

During the panel I spoke with the film's Emmy-winning producer Chris Hegedus, who helped the directors bring this topic to light, 19-year-old Julia Bruzzese, a patient with Lyme disease featured in the film who bravely shared her story because she knew it could help other patients, and Julia's dad, Enrico Bruzzese, who has been her caregiver and biggest supporter.

This episode also includes my recent conversation with past guest and the film's executive producer, Ally Hilfiger, who talks about her own Lyme story and how important it was for the film to include both real, digestible science and a patient's story for viewers to connect with.

The Quiet Epidemic reminds us how important it is to educate about a devastating tick-borne disease like Lyme, which is growing more and more common, yet still so difficult to test for and treat.

For more information about The Quiet Epidemic and ReelAbilities, visit our website at madevisiblestories.com/podcast

Please note: This podcast is intended to provide information and education and is not intended to provide you with a diagnosis or treatment advice. You should consult with a licensed or registered healthcare professional about your individual condition and circumstance.

This podcast aims to change the conversation around invisible illnesses and we need your help! Support our mission by sharing this episode and leaving a review!

Join the conversation and connect with us online!
Website: madevisiblestories.com
Facebook: madevisiblestories
Instagram: @madevisiblestories
LinkedIn: madevisible

Author and patient advocate Ilana Jacqueline experienced medical gaslighting from a young age. At age 19 she was diagnosed with Hypogammaglobulinemia, a rare immunodeficiency.

While navigating young adulthood with an invisible illness, Ilana also faced lots of medical gaslighting, encountering doctors who shamed her out of seeking care.

Ilana has devoted her career to patient advocacy. Through her work, as well as public speaking, social media, and writing books (Surviving and Thriving with an Invisible Chronic Illness, and the upcoming Medical Gaslighting: A Guide to Help You Recognize It, Prevent It, and Fight For Your Life) Ilana helps patients survive and thrive with chronic illness, and spot and combat deadly medical gaslighting. If you have experienced medical gaslighting, you're not alone, and Ilana is in your corner.

For more information about Ilana Jacqueline, visit our website at madevisiblestories.com/podcast

Please note: This podcast is intended to provide information and education and is not intended to provide you with a diagnosis or treatment advice. You should consult with a licensed or registered healthcare professional about your individual condition and circumstance.

This podcast aims to change the conversation around invisible illnesses and we need your help! Support our mission by sharing this episode and leaving a review!

Join the conversation and connect with us online!
Website: madevisiblestories.com
Facebook: madevisiblestories
Instagram: @madevisiblestories
LinkedIn: madevisible

Melissa is a functional fitness instructor, photographer, and Lupus warrior. After living her whole life in pain, Melissa was finally diagnosed with Lupus in 2006. She began a variety of treatments that helped combat her symptoms, but the physical and mental toll of pain and treatment left Melissa in a place of exhaustion, depression and self-pity.

A few years later, Melissa shifted gears and adopted an approach to managing her pain that included nutrition and lifestyle changes, as well as medical observation when needed. Melissa also shifted her mindset, creating obtainable goals, avoiding all-or-none thinking, and listening to her body.

Melissa has drawn from her transformation to build a career in holistic nutrition and wellness, helping her clients embrace their individuality and be in charge of their own stories.

For more information about Melissa Coulier, visit our website at madevisiblestories.com/podcast

Please note: This podcast is intended to provide information and education and is not intended to provide you with a diagnosis or treatment advice. You should consult with a licensed or registered healthcare professional about your individual condition and circumstance.

This podcast aims to change the conversation around invisible illnesses and we need your help! Support our mission by sharing this episode and leaving a review!

Join the conversation and connect with us online!
Website: madevisiblestories.com
Facebook: madevisiblestories
Instagram: @madevisiblestories
LinkedIn: madevisible