Barbara shares her extraordinary journey through unimaginable challenges, from a discovery of multiple myeloma to a stem cell transplant, induced coma, severe sepsis, and ultimately the life-altering experience of a double amputation. Despite the harrowing experiences, Barbara’s story radiates incredible resilience, hope, and positivity.

She speaks candidly about moments of darkness, vivid dreams during her coma, waking to devastating news, and rebuilding her life physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Her journey is an inspiring reminder that, even when life as you knew it changes forever, it’s still possible to live fully and gratefully.

Barbara’s strength and determination light up the conversation, making this an episode that stays with you long after you’ve listened.

The song that Barbara selected is Battle by Wookie.

MaryAnn opens up with honesty about her daily life with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and Gastroparesis. She shares how a fall in the bathroom spiralled into a life-altering condition that left her unable to walk, in relentless pain, and dismissed by multiple healthcare professionals. Despite visible healing on scans, she was battling invisible agony.

We discuss the different ways MaryAnn manages her condition, with music therapy, strict routines, soft textures, and self-advocacy. We also talk about how she found a lifeline in ketamine therapy, a controversial yet transformative treatment that helped her regain mobility and her mental stability.

As a founder of several clinical research companies, MaryAnn also reflects on how living with a chronic illness has changed her perspective as a clinical professional, strengthening her belief in patient-centered care.

The song MaryAnn chose is I am woman by Emmy Meli.

This is the deeply moving story of Duncan and his son Torin, who battled Pearson Syndrome, a rare mitochondrial disease. With raw honesty, Duncan shares the journey of loving, raising, and ultimately saying goodbye to his son, revealing not only the heartbreak but also the enduring love and strength that shapes his family's life today. We talk about how they navigated an unpredictable and devastating diagnosis, and how it led the family to cherish every moment.

Now, in his son’s memory, Duncan is building a wooden sailing boat, fulfilling Torin’s dream of sailing to Wildcat Island on Lake Windermere, as inspired by his favourite book, Swallows and Amazons. This act of love and craftsmanship stands as a testament to a boy who made the most of his short life.

The song that Duncan chose is Hedwig’s Theme by John Williams.