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Alive with Chronic Illness

Elizabeth Curtis 28 Episodes Sep 19, 2026

An exploration of living with, not 'in spite of' chronic illness and disability. This podcast provides general information only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and their inclusion is not an endorsement.

Episodes

Future-proofing | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 9 Sep 19, 2026 00:46:55 In Section 9 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore steps you can take now to help prepare for the future. Considering things such as home adaptations, and long term goal planning to make living with conditions, including those that are degenerative as comfortable as possible. 🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others taking the programme here: ⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/CQJM

Flare-up Planning | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 8 Sep 5, 2026 00:28:50 In Section 8 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore proactive steps you can take to prepare for flare-ups. Helping you feel more in control of your life while living with an unpredictable condition. 🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others taking the programme here: ⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY⁠⁠⁠.📰 For summaries of the programme sections visit and subscribe to our

Re-engaging | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 7 Aug 22, 2026 00:19:14 In Section 7 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore ways to sustainably re-engage with work, hobbies and daily life after a health change. We talk about how sustainable re-engagement takes time, adaptation and flexibility, and the steps you can take steps to re-engage with the things you love. 🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others taking the programme here: ⁠⁠https:/

Adapting | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 6 Aug 8, 2026 00:48:48 In Section 6 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore ways you can adapt your life to make it more accessible, and tasks more sustainable when you live with chronic illness.🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others taking the programme here: ⁠https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY⁠.📰 For summaries of the programme sections visit and subscribe to our newsletter: ⁠http://alivewithchr

Pacing in Practice (Part 2) | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 5 Jul 25, 2026 00:19:46 In Section 5 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we continue to use fictional real life inspired scenarios written by Jo's occupational therapy students to explore different ways people can implement pacing into their lives.🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others taking the programme here: https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY.📰 For summaries of the programme sections visit and su

Pacing in Practice (Part 1) | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 4 Jul 11, 2026 00:27:18 In Section 4 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we use fictional real life inspired scenarios written by Jo's occupational therapy students to explore different ways people can implement pacing into their lives. 🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others taking the programme here: https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY.📰 For summaries of the programme sections visit and subscribe to

Implementing Pacing for Chronic Illness | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 3 Jun 27, 2026 00:19:44 In Section 3 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore the ways you can implement pacing into your daily life. Considering the different types of energy, and practical steps you can take to make daily tasks, such as chores, more energy efficient, so you have capacity to do the things you want to do. It is the third step in our 9 section programme designed to empower chronically ill pe

Pacing Theory for Chronic Illness | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 2 Jun 13, 2026 00:18:23 In Section 2 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore the pacing theory and how it can support chronically ill and disabled people to better manage their energy, making sure you have the capacity to do the things you need to do but also the things you want to do, an important step in building a sustainable fulfilling life. It is the second step in our 9 section programme designed to

Getting Started with Chronic Illness Management | The Chronic Illness Management Programme: Section 1 May 30, 2026 00:27:20 In Section 1 of our Chronic Illness Management programme we explore the first steps you could take in managing your chronic illness. Whether you have a new diagnosis, a change in symptoms or just want to better manage your chronic illness this episode is for you. It is the first step in our 9 section programme designed to empower chronically ill people to manage their health and live fulfilling li

Chronic Illness Management Programme Trailer May 28, 2026 00:00:43 Introducing our Chronic Illness Management Programme. A nine part programme designed to take you through the foundations of chronic illness management. Throughout the programme we will cover topics such as energy management and pacing, adapting, flare-up planning and future proofing. Providing you with tools to help improve your quality of life.🏘️ You can join our discord server to chat to others

Getting an Autism Diagnosis | Imogen Varle Apr 25, 2026 00:43:01 In this months episode we are joined by Mental Health nurse Imogen Varle, who shares her experience of getting an Autism diagnosis and living with chronic illness. We explore the impact of a late diagnosis, the impact being autistic and chronically ill has on navigating work and life, and the importance of finding your tribe. Learn more about Imy here: ⁠linktr.ee/the_gratitude_gal⁠🏘️ Our community

Accessibility in the Arts | Disability Arts Online Mar 28, 2026 00:29:27 We are joined by Disability Arts Online CEO Trish Wheatley, to discuss accessibility in the arts and the UK Government Access to Work scheme. You can learn more about Disability Arts Online here https://disabilityarts.online/ 🏘️ Our community: https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY📰 Our newsletter: http://alivewithchronicillness.substack.com/Please note this Podcast is provided for general information only

Building a Fulfilling Life with Chronic Illness | Jo Southall Feb 28, 2026 00:51:13 In this episode Occupational Therapist Jo Southall talks about her experience of living with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and POTS. She shares how her diagnosis lead to a shift in careers, the power of lived experience in healthcare, and insight into living a more fulfilling life. 🔗 You can learn more about Jo and her work here: https://jboccupationaltherapy.co.uk/.🏘️ Our community: https://discord.gg/C

Finding a Partner While Living with Disability: Challenging Narratives | Saima Jan 31, 2026 00:53:57 In this episode Saima joins us to share her experience of looking for a partner. She provides insight into the approach she took, which was guided by her faith, and offers invaluable insight for others who may be looking for a partner or dating. She highlights the importance of knowing your worth in a world that often treats disabled people as lesser than. 🏘️ Our community: https://discord.gg/CQJM

Writing with Chronic Illness | Sarah Colliver Dec 27, 2025 00:42:34 In this episode we are joined by author Sarah Colliver, who shares her experience of writing with chronic illness. She talks about her health journey, and the realities of writing while balancing work and health. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Pat Raymond. 🏘️ Our community: https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY📰 Our newsletter: http://alivewithchronicillness.substack.com/Please note this Podca

Running a Business with Chronic illness | Christina Lucille Nov 29, 2025 00:57:39 Christina Lucille owner of the Chronic Pop Shop joins us for a unfiltered account of what it's like to run a business when you are chronically ill. She talks about the realities of profit margins, fatigue, and social media algorithms. 🏘️ Our community: https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY📰 Our newsletter: http://alivewithchronicillness.substack.com/Please note this Podcast is provided for general inf

Towards a More Inclusive Future | Dr Maria Garcia Oct 25, 2025 00:46:38 For this episode we are joined by Maria Garcia a doctor and a patient. She shares her experience of living with a spinal cord injury and reflections on a more inclusive future. 🏘️ Our community: https://discord.gg/CQJMmgYPVY📰 Our newsletter: http://alivewithchronicillness.substack.com/Please note this Podcast is provided for general information only, it does not constitute as medical or profession

Assistive Technology with Matthew Horspool Sep 27, 2025 01:10:59 In today's episode I am joined by Assistive Technology Trainer Matthew Horspool who talks about his experience as a blind person, and shares helpful tips on utilising assistive technology. You can learn more about Matthew's work here: linkedin.com/in/matthew-horspool-20856517a. You can up to our newsletter for podcast summaries and more content on living with chronic illness here: http://a

Scott Whitney All 4 Inclusion Jun 28, 2025 00:36:10 In today's episode I am joined by All 4 Inclusion founder Scott Whitney. All 4 Inclusion is a UK based community interest company dedicated to building connection and community. They host multiple online events each week that bring people together and encourage people to talk. Scott shares his experience of living with disability, and his journey to founding All 4 Inclusion. Learn more about All 4

Brian: Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome May 31, 2025 00:27:42 In todays episode we are joined by Brian Reeve-Hayes a secondary school teacher who shares his experience of living, working and parenting with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. We chat about the pathway to diagnosis, private vs NHS care, and balancing work and parenting with healthcare. You can up to our newsletter for podcast summaries and more content on living with chronic illness here: http://alivewith

Aimee: Working with Post Viral Chronic Fatigue Apr 26, 2025 00:47:22 In today's episode I am joined by Aimee (@fatiguediaries), who shares her experience of working with Post Viral Chronic Fatigue. We talk about the realities of working with chronic illness, and the options that are available to disabled people such as phased returns. To learn more about Aimee follow her instagram @fatiguediaries where she shares insights into her daily life. Please note this Podca

Book Chats: Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young Mar 29, 2025 00:40:00 In todays episode I am joined by my sister Melissa to chat about disability representation in literature. We explore Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young, chat about coffee cake, and inclusion. ✨ The first section is spoiler free and we let you know before we dive into spoiler territory. ✨Please note this Podcast is provided for general information only, it does not constitute as medical or profess

Kait: Living with Miserable Malalignment Syndrome Feb 22, 2025 00:35:35 Occupational therapist Kait joins us for this months episode of the Alive with Chronic Illness. She shares her experience of living with Miserable Malalignment Syndrome, and how her career has been impacted by the condition.We explore perceptions of pain, and how for some people who have always lived in pain the idea of not being in any pain at all can seem unrealistic or even impossible.Kait shar

Gentle Goal Setting with Caitlin Oliver Jan 25, 2025 00:37:14 In this month's episode of the Alive with Chronic Illness Podcast we are joined by Caitlin Oliver to explore gentle goal setting. We talk about setting realistic and accessible goals, and how we can step away from pressure to keep achieving more and instead appreciate the journey with all the milestones along the way.To learn more about Caitlin's work visit their website here: https://www.caitlino

Book Chats with Mel Dec 14, 2024 00:42:38 As the year draws to a close I invite my sister Melissa to chat about some of our favourite reads, and most importantly favourite snacks. Books mentioned in this episode: The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie GilmoreThe Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India HoltonThe Country Village Allotment by Cathy LakeThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna Howl's Moving Castle by Dian

Ellie Howe: A Note of Hope Nov 30, 2024 00:39:29 In today's episode I am joined by Ellie Howe, founder of A Note of Hope. Ellie lives with multiple health condition including, Gastroparesis, POTS, and Vascular Compressions - Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) and Nutcracker Syndrome. She shares her health journey, and the motivation behind creating A Note of Hope. Content note: this episode contains discussions of surgery and palliative

Stacey Cann: Parenting with Chronic Illness Nov 16, 2024 00:29:55 In today's episode I'm joined by Franchise Strategist Stacey Cann who shares her experience of parenting and working with chronic illness. Stacey shares her experience of pregnancy and the impact it had on her health, what it's like to navigate parenting with an energy limiting condition, and how franchising has made work more accessible for her. You can learn more about Stacey Cann and her work h

Charlene Thompson Working with ADHD and Autism Nov 2, 2024 00:36:47 Today I'm joined by Charlene Thompson a sales operations expert, sharing her experience of working with ADHD and Autism. We chat about work culture and the importance of acknowledging our own worth. As well as the journey to diagnosis, and some reasons people may choose not to seek one. You can learn more about Charlene Thompson and her work here: https://salesopseffect.com/Please note this Podcas

Amy Corfeli: Living with Endometriosis Oct 19, 2024 00:34:25 Today I am joined by Amy Corfeli, an endometriosis advocate and host of the podcast In Sixteen Years of Endometriosis. She shares her journey to diagnosis and in keeping with her book Finding Peace with Devastating Disease, how she's learning to find peace living with endometriosis. You can learn more about Amy and her work here: www.insixteenyears.com.Please note this Podcast is provided for gene

Rev. Christine Vaughan Davies: Living with Epilepsy Oct 5, 2024 00:33:44 Today I am joined by Rev. Christine Vaughan Davies, Spiritual Director and ACPE Certified Educator, as she shares her experience of living and working with Epilepsy. Please note this Podcast is provided for general information only, it does not constitute as medical or professional advice. The views expressed by guests on this Podcast are their own, their inclusion in this Podcast is not an endors

Grace Quantock: Living Well with Chronic Illness Sep 21, 2024 00:40:10 In today's episode I am joined by Grace Quantock to chat about her new book "Living Well with Chronic Illness", a thoughtfully written guide full of journaling prompts and tips. Visit Grace's website here: https://www.gracequantock.com.With thanks to Grace for providing me with a copy of her book. Please note this Podcast is provided for general information only, it does not constitute as medical

Sibling Loss with Jan Sep 7, 2024 00:23:36 Content note: this episode includes discussion of grief, loss and death. For sepsis awareness month Jan and I explore what it's like to live with grief as bereaved siblings. We discuss sepsis and how little we knew about it prior to and following our sister's deaths. To learn more about sepsis please visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sepsis/. Please note this Podcast is provided for general inf

Working with Chronic Illness with Lixxy Aug 17, 2024 00:24:43 I chat with Business Strategist Lixxy Harkcom about what it's like to work with chronic illness, and she shares her top tips. To learn more about Lixxy visit her website here: https://sixfiguresuccess.club/. Intro and outro music by podcast.co.

Access to Work with Saima Aug 3, 2024 00:38:11 For today's episode Saima shares her experience of Access to Work and her tips for anyone looking to apply. She offers insight into the process, what to expect and what you may be eligible for. To learn more and to apply for Access to Work visit: https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work

Sustainable Working Jul 6, 2024 00:18:25 This episode explores sustainable working with chronic illness, as well as my top tips for working sustainably.

Alive with Chronic Illness

Episodes

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