1. EachPod

Mind Over Misery Part 2

Author
Jen Weaver
Published
Thu 04 Sep 2025
Episode Link
None

What happens when chronic pain intersects with mental health? Our panel of chronic illness warriors tackles this question head-on, revealing the emotional landscape behind physical suffering and the mindset shifts that transformed their journeys.

Meet Steve, living with rare and painful arachnoiditis, who found renewed purpose as an advocate after his body began failing him. Listen to Stasia's powerful reframing of productivity – "sometimes just sitting and listening to birds is productive" – challenging our cultural obsession with constant activity. Rick shares his structured approach to resilience despite debilitating knee pain, while Lisa reminds us that emotional resilience ultimately comes down to choice in the face of uncontrollable circumstances.

Together, they explore how chronic illness fundamentally reshapes self-worth, relationships, and identity. You'll hear candid admissions about wallowing (it's okay sometimes!), grief as necessary processing rather than pain itself, and the transformative power of finding purpose amid suffering. Their practical wisdom includes removing "I'm fine" from your vocabulary, setting time limits on pity parties, and preparing mentally for others' reactions to your invisible battles.

This conversation goes beyond typical chronic illness discussions, diving into the psychological strategies that help warriors rise above their conditions. Whether managing pain yourself or supporting someone who does, you'll gain insight into the delicate balance between acknowledging suffering and choosing engagement with life despite limitations.

Grab a cozy drink and join us for an honest, heartfelt exploration of how the mind can triumph over misery – not by denying pain, but by transcending it through purpose, community, and intentional mindset shifts.

Steve Lovelace:

https://www.instagram.com/arachnoiditis_unfiltered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Rick Cram:

https://www.instagram.com/rickcram?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Lisa Norris:

https://www.instagram.com/autoimmunewarriorinfo?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_shee

Send us a text

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors


Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website: https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes: GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Share to: