In this episode, Cheryl reconnects with longtime friend and patient advocate Mariah Leach to talk about the realities of parenting while living with rheumatoid arthritis and chronic illness. Mariah shares how her own experiences with pregnancy, postpartum flares, and feeling isolated inspired her to create Mamas Facing Forward, an online community supporting parents and parents-to-be with chronic illness.
Cheryl and Mariah discuss everything from medication decisions during pregnancy to adapting family life, traveling with chronic illness, managing expectations, and finding “micro moments” of joy along the way.
If you’ve ever worried that chronic illness might prevent you from building the life or family you want, this episode offers compassionate, practical encouragement that you do not have to give up on your goals, even if you have to adapt the path forward.
All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.
See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!