Hello, my name is Susan. I’m a licensed psychologist and I live with Sjogren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disease. I write to help people with chronic illnesses how to figure out the right healthy living plan to manage their symptoms.
For years I had a combination of symptoms that didn’t seem to make sense. I was convinced I was doing something wrong, so I tried to lifestyle my way into feeling better. The symptoms didn’t go away, and in fact some got worse.
After years of wondering if I was among the “worried well”, I found a doctor who dug in deep and found the unifying reason for everything: Sjogren’s Syndrome.
When this finally happened, a whole new journey began. I figured out that lifestyle choices are still vitally important, but cookie-cutter approaches don’t work when you have a chronic illness.
I am in a unique position: I see issues facing those of us with chronic illness from the perspectives of clinician, researcher, and patient. I’ve been through the self-doubt and confusion, but through trial and error I’ve figured out the right self-care program for me.
When Sjogren’s Syndrome (any autoimmune disease) isn’t going away, it’s time to find new opportunities to reshape and expand the boundaries of what we think we’re capable of. I truly believe everyone deserves to, and can, implement lifestyle improvements to reduce the impact of long-term illnesses.
Living With Chronic Illness
Living with conditions that aren’t going away. Great for sharing with family so they have a better understanding of your experience.
Lifestyle Medicine Center
All about diet and exercise: Healthy living tips when you’re always feeling sick.
Disease Prevention
Having an autoimmune disorder is linked to increased risks of other long-term diseases.
Stress Management
Because having a chronic illness is stressful. Techniques to help calm the waters related to your health, and well, life.
