In part two of my conversation with Dr. Summer, we dive deep into her journey of becoming a physician after facing significant life challenges, including a divorce and becoming a single parent to her two boys. As we covered in the first part of this conversation, Dr. Summer was misdiagnosed with MS before receiving the correct diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO).

After attending undergrad in Missouri and med school in Pennsylvania, Summer's path to becoming a physician was unconventional, marked by personal trials and triumphs. She shares her experience of transitioning to a power wheelchair and how it affected her work and interactions with patients.

Summer emphasizes that being a physician is not just about treating physical ailments but also about understanding the emotional and spiritual aspects of health. This perspective is crucial, especially for patients dealing with chronic conditions like MS and NMO.

Towards the end of our discussion, Dr. Summer shares her insights on the healthcare system and the challenges faced by both patients and providers. She addresses the frustrations of navigating insurance and the pressures that come with high patient loads. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to her patients and finds joy in her work.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Follow Dr. Summer on TikTok
Visit Summer Banzhaf, DO at Fairfield Medical Center

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here

Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com

Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy beat the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

I recently enjoyed speaking with the incredible Dr. Summer about her remarkable story. I’ve been following her journey on TikTok, and I was eager to dive into her experiences with neuromyelitis optica (NMO), a condition that was initially misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis (MS). Summer's resilience and determination to overcome her challenges are truly inspiring.

In the first part of a two-part interview, Summer shared her journey from being misdiagnosed with MS to receiving the correct diagnosis of NMO. She explained that NMO is often confused with MS due to their similarities, but it has distinct characteristics that can lead to more severe symptoms. Summer described her initial experiences with various treatments, including Gilenya and Tysabri, and how they didn’t work for her condition. It was only after multiple attacks that her doctors reconsidered her diagnosis and adjusted her treatment plan.

During our conversation, we discussed Dr. Summer's journey through misdiagnosis and the impact of her condition on her medical career, the emotional challenges of living with a chronic illness and the fear of unpredictability, advances in treatment options for NMO and the hope they bring to patients, and the power of resilience and determination in overcoming health challenges.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Follow Dr. Summer on TikTok
Visit Summer Banzhaf, DO at Fairfield Medical Center

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here
Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com

Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy beat the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack

15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

In Episode 118 of the Move It or Lose It Podcast I sit down with my lovely friend, Lisa Norris, who is thriving while living with another autoimmune disease—Lupus. We dive into the challenges and triumphs of accepting our diagnoses and moving forward to live a badass life despite the obstacles. Lisa shares her abundance of gratitude and reveals how she uses diet and exercise to disrupt her disease, offering invaluable advice to those newly diagnosed. Join us for an inspiring conversation as we discuss the power of mindset, the importance of staying active, and how to live life to the fullest with an autoimmune disease. Whether you’re dealing with lupus, multiple sclerosis, or any other chronic condition, this episode is packed with insights that will empower you on your own health journey. Don’t miss it!
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Move It or Lose It Podcast!
Want to follow or get in touch with Lisa?
Instagram: @autoimmunewarriorinfo

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Follow me (Kathy) on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and my website for daily inspiration, fitness tips, and a whole lot of fun!
Website: https://msdisrupted.com
Facebook: / msdisrupted
Instagram: / msdisrupted
TikTok: / msdisrupted

Here are some additional products that help Kathy deal with beating the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

This episode is a return visit for Robbie Gillett, a talented poet who lives with MS. We talked about Robbie's initial struggles with his diagnosis and how it led him to writing poetry as a form of therapy and self-expression. With the support of his wife, who encouraged him to share his work, Robbie has used his poetry to raise awareness and provide hope to others.

Robbie talked about his upcoming projects including a show and book titled "I Don't Like Poetry," which challenges stereotypes and perceptions about poetry.

Robbie's message to newly diagnosed individuals is to reach out and connect with others in the MS community, emphasizing the support and understanding that can be found through shared experiences. His upcoming book release in September will further showcase his talent and dedication to raising awareness about MS and mental health.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Connect with Robbie on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Buy Robbie's book, Thoughts of a Warrior: Beneath the Tracksuit
Watch The Painter And The Poet on YouTube
Listen to Robbie's music on Spotify

Listen to Robbie's previous appearances on the Move It Or Lose It podcast: Episode 085 Part One and Episode 085 Part Two

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here

Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com

Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy deal with beating the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

Recently I had a fantastic conversation with Kelli Gastis, an author and fellow MS warrior. Kelli shared her journey of being diagnosed with MS at 25 and how she navigated through various treatments, including natural remedies.

We talked about Kelli's busy life before her MS diagnosis, working in the fashion industry and teaching dance and aerobics. She shared her initial symptoms of tingling and the journey to diagnosis, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties she faced.

Eventually, Kelli transitioned from traditional medication to natural remedies, guided by a homeopathic doctor to explore different approaches to managing her health.

Now Kelli has written about her experiences in a book, "Fabulous in Flats," which is available on Amazon and has received rave reviews within the MS community.

In our discussion, Kelli emphasized the need for an open mind when looking at ways to manage MS. Her advice to newly diagnosed individuals was to try different approaches and not be afraid to explore alternative treatments.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Visit Kelli Gastis
Buy Fabulous in Flats: How I've Learned to Thrive While Living With an Autoimmune Illness by Kelli Gastis
Connect with Kelli on Facebook and Instagram

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here
Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com

Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy deal with beating the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

I always love speaking to people who are working to improve the lives of people living with chronic health conditions. So I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Claudio Semplicini, an Italian doctor who co-created Exoband, a device aimed at assisting individuals with walking difficulties due to various neurological conditions.

Exoband is a lightweight, easy-to-use device that stores and releases energy during the hip extension and flexion phases to aid walking. The device has been tested by over 1000 users worldwide and has shown effectiveness in a high proportion of patients with various conditions.

Dr. Semplicini shared his journey into neurology, highlighting the complexity and importance of the brain and the wide range of diseases neurology covers, from migraines to rare genetic disorders.

During the interview, we delved into the benefits of Exoband for patients with spinal cord impairment, lower limb weakness, balance issues, and gait limitations due to fatigue. Dr. Semplicini emphasized the potential of the device to improve mobility and quality of life for individuals with walking difficulties.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Visit Moveo
Connect with Moveo on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube
Connect with Claudio Semplicini on LinkedIn

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here

Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com
Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy deal with beating the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

I'm delighted to present my recent chat with my almost-namesake Cathy Chester and her husband Gary. Cathy and Gary began dating in 1985, the year before Cathy's diagnosis, which means that at the time of recording they have been together for nearly 40 years - incredible!

Cathy and Gary share valuable insights into the importance of communication and mutual respect in maintaining a happy and successful marriage, especially when facing the challenges of MS. They also emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding in their relationship. They acknowledge each other's needs and emotions, whether it's taking a break for self-care or providing support during difficult times.

As an award-winning writer and certified health advocate, Cathy is dedicated to helping other MSers feel less lonely, isolated and overwhelmed than she did when she was diagnosed. She is passionate about helping those with MS feel better about themselves and the world around them.

It was such an honor to be able to interview and meet them both. I hope that you'll be able to feel the love and support they give to each other.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Connect with Cathy on Instagram
Read Cathy's blog, An Empowered Spirit
Watch Cathy's Ted-like talk, Cathy Chester—I Wish I Knew
Read Katie Couric's profile of Cathy, An MS Advocate On Raising Awareness of Living With a Chronic Illness

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here

Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com

Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy deal with beating the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings

https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15

https://www.releafpack.com

In this special episode for Pride Month, I had the pleasure of chatting with Antonio Perez. Antonio shared his experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ community living with multiple sclerosis. We delved into topics ranging from his MS symptoms to his journey of self-discovery and coming out. Antonio's openness and authenticity shone through as he shared his personal stories and struggles.

Antonio discussed his MS symptoms, including recent issues due to the Texas heat. We also explored Antonio's journey of self-discovery, from realizing his attraction to boys in third grade to coming out to friends and family.

Antonio shared his experiences with dating and relationships, highlighting the challenges of navigating the dating scene as a gay man with MS. We discussed the impact of social media, particularly TikTok, on Antonio's life and how it has helped him connect with others in the LGBTQ+ and disability communities.

Antonio offered advice for people who might be hesitant to come out, emphasizing the importance of finding supportive communities and events like pride celebrations.

DISCLAIMER
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Links and resources:

Sign up for the 10 Weeks to Disrupt MS Program

Connect with Antonio on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram
Listen to Move It Or Lose It podcast Episode 093 - MS Warrior Antonio Perez

If you're interested in having Kathy speak at your event, learn more here
Find out more about the DMAT Fitness Training program

You can find Kathy Chester at:
msdisrupted@gmail.com
disruptfitnessgym@gmail.com
moveitorloseit109@gmail.com

Connect with @msdisrupted on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Here are some additional products that help Kathy deal with beating the Heat and Migraines. Take advantage of the coupon code.

Koldtec - Cool Head Wrap
KOLD10

To save $10 off every item in-store.
2 items = $20 savings
3 items = $30 savings
https://www.koldtec.com/

Cold bean bag Releafpack
15% discount use code Disrupt15
https://www.releafpack.com