Advertise on podcast: Take a Pain Check

This week on Take a Pain Check, we’re joined by Ela Murray, a university student who has been living with Central Nervous System Vasculitis which an invisible, life-altering condition since childhood.Symptomatic at just 8 years old and diagnosed at 16 during the height of COVID, Ela shares what it was really like navigating years of uncertainty, MRIs, a brain biopsy, steroids, seizures, and university life while still finding her voice as a young advocate.In this episode, we talk about:• Delayed diagnosis and navigating complex medical systems• The impact of steroids on body image, confidence, and mental health• Living next to a hospital while trying to experience “normal” university life• Finding purpose through advocacy and youth representation• What it means to show up vulnerably on stage and in everyday lifeThis episode is a reminder that young patients deserve to be heard, believed, and supported both medically and emotionally. Watch now, share with someone who needs to hear this, and join us in prioritizing youth voices in healthcare.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: ⁠https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc...Vasculitis Canada: https://vasculitis.ca/Our socials: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/  https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck https://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheck https://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheck https://www.x.com/takeapaincheckDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.

Your pain might not mean damage and that could change everything. In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we sit down with Vanessa Blackstone, Executive Director of the Pain Psychology Center, to talk about Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) — a science-backed approach helping people move beyond “just managing” chronic pain. We break down how the brain can learn pain, why fear keeps symptoms stuck, and how safety, language, and emotional trust can unlock real recovery. If you’ve been told your pain is permanent, this conversation may completely change how you see your body. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: ⁠https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc... Our socials: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/  https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck https://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheck https://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheck https://www.x.com/takeapaincheck Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.

What happens when both a mother and daughter are diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis?In today’s episode, we sit down with USPORTS basketball athlete, advocate, and STEM Without Limits scholar, McKinley Penninga, and her mom Lisa Penninga, to talk about navigating life as a family living with the same chronic illness.Diagnosed years apart, McKinley and Lisa share:- how psoriatic arthritis shaped their mother-daughter bond- the early signs Lisa saw in McKinley based on her own lived experience- what it was like recognizing symptoms she personally knew all too well- how both supported each other through flare days, school challenges, and identity changesMcKinley opens up about staying in basketball, balancing varsity-level training with chronic pain, and proving that invisible illness doesn’t define your athletic ability. Lisa shares the parent perspective while managing her own health needs — something rarely talked about in chronic illness stories. Together, they discuss advocacy, youth voice in healthcare, the STEM Without Limits Scholarship, and how their shared experiences are shaping the healthcare provider McKinley hopes to become.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: ⁠https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc...Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheckDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.

He could barely move at 15 and now he’s redefining strength. When doctors told Zac Spinosa he might never train again, he refused to accept it. Diagnosed with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Macrophage Activation Syndrome, he refused to let that be the end of his story. Instead, he built Forge Fitness, a community where disability doesn’t mean limitation and pain becomes power. In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Zac opens up about hitting rock bottom and choosing to fight back, building a gym that truly includes people with chronic illness, the mindset shift that changed everything, and what strength really means when your body is working against you. If you’ve ever been told you can’t, this episode will make you believe you can. Watch now, get inspired, and rethink what strength looks like.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: ⁠https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc...Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheckZac's socials:  @ZacTheArthritisCoach 

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, host Natasha sits down with Stacey Ivits, Registered Social Worker, advocate, and author of Navigating Your Vasculitis Journey. Stacey shares her journey living with vasculitis and Crohn’s disease, highlighting the realities of medical trauma, body image challenges, and the emotional impact of chronic illness.We discuss: Stacey’s diagnosis story and what it was like growing up with a rare and invisible illnessThe role of therapy (DBT, EMDR, and more) in healing from medical traumaThe importance of specialized mental health support for people with long-term conditionsHer guidebook and course, Navigating Your Vasculitis Journey, created to empower and support patientsWhy body image and disordered eating need more recognition in chronic illness careStacey’s story reminds us that chronic illness affects both body and mind and that healing also means advocacy, community, and education.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: ⁠https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc...Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/  / takeapaincheck_     / takeapaincheck    / take-a-pain-check     / @takeapaincheck    / takeapaincheck  https://www.x.com/takeapaincheckStacey's socials:LinkedIn: Stacey Ivits, Facebook: Stacey Ivits, Instagram: @staceyivitsmswrsw

At 28, Michael Santillo was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis after years of unexplained pain that made even simple tasks like putting on socks or driving which became nearly impossible. Instead of letting it define him, he turned his journey into an inspiring mission: founding the annual “Let’s Get Loud for AS” gala.In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we talk about:- His road to diagnosis and the symptoms he faced- The mental and physical health challenges that followed- How AS impacted his relationships and love life - The creation and growth of “Let’s Get Loud for AS”Whether you’re living with AS, supporting someone who is, or just looking for inspiration, Michael’s story is a reminder that even in life’s toughest moments, there’s room to create change. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapainc...Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/ https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/  https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheck https://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheck https://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheck https://www.x.com/takeapaincheck Instagram: mmichael.ss and letsgetloudforas

In this episode, we explore the legal landscape surrounding injury, illness, and chronic pain. Personal injury lawyer Shane Katz joins us to unpack the most common misconceptions about personal injury law, the truth behind medical malpractice claims, and the importance of compassionate legal representation. We discuss how the legal system can serve as a tool for empowerment—especially for those navigating complex medical conditions—and what patients need to know when dealing with insurance companies and systemic healthcare failures. Shane shares stories from his practice and offers practical advice on when to seek legal help, how to advocate for yourself, and why justice matters just as much as healing.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch... https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-...https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Maggie Douglas opens up about her complex journey living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Fibromyalgia, and PCOS. She walks us through the physical and emotional challenges of early symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and navigating the transition from pediatric to adult rheumatology care.This week also features something a little different: a conversation about the short film Fibro and the New Me. Maggie shares her reactions to the portrayal of fibromyalgia on screen, reflects on the importance of accurate representation, and unpacks how media can both validate and educate. From support systems to self-discovery, this episode is a candid exploration of resilience, identity, and what it really means to find yourself in the midst of chronic illness. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Maggie's socials: IG - mdouglas0423, FB/Linkedin - Maggie DouglasOur socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/  / takeapaincheck_     / takeapaincheck    / take-a-pain-check     / @takeapaincheck    / takeapaincheck  https://www.x.com/takeapaincheck

In this powerful episode of Take a Pain Check, we sit down with Mya Barnett, a driven and inspiring young woman living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Diagnosed at just 11 years old, Mya shares the reality of growing up with a chronic illness, how it shaped her confidence, impacted her daily life, and led to major decisions like undergoing jaw surgery. From navigating school accommodations and finding community at IWK summer camp, to becoming a camp counsellor and launching a homemade soap line for psoriasis. She also opens up about her experience travelling to Europe with Global Brigades Canada and managing her condition on the go.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck

What happens when you’re diagnosed with the same illness you once watched a friend silently suffer through? In this powerful episode of the Take a Pain Check Podcast, Natasha sits down with Macenzie Rebelo, who shares how Lupus reshaped her life, relationships, and sense of self. From juggling university and dating to confronting stigma and learning to speak up, Macenzie reveals the unfiltered truth behind living with a chronic illness and how writing became her rebellion. Don’t miss this raw, honest, and unexpectedly empowering conversation. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:⁠https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch... https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-...https://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we’re joined by  @DrAndreaFurlan , a physician, researcher, educator, and YouTube star who is transforming the way we understand and approach chronic pain. From her early days studying medicine in Brazil to becoming one of Canada’s foremost pain experts, Dr. Furlan shares her personal journey with chronic pain, explains the differences between nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain, and uncovers why so many patients are misdiagnosed and what we can do about it. We also explore the inspiration behind her latest book, the impact of her viral YouTube content, and how she makes cutting-edge science accessible and empowering for patients worldwide. Register for our in person event here by May 18: https://forms.gle/tWdabTbta8ZYeieb8Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Dr. Furlan's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@DrAndreaFurlan instagram.com/dr.andrea.furlan twitter.com/adfurlan facebook.com/dr.andrea.furlanOur socials:⁠https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck#chronicpain #chronicpaindoc #doctor #education #pain #opioids

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, we are joined by the Jenna Kedy, a passionate advocate living with Juvenile Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. We dive deep into Jenna’s diagnosis journey, navigating school and childhood with a chronic illness, and the challenges of finding proper pediatric care. Jenna opens up about learning to advocate for herself, balancing a busy life of advocacy, volunteering, and pageantry, and the realities of managing pain and flare-ups. We also explore the differences in healthcare systems across Canada, her work with IMPaCT Trials mentoring researchers, and her inspiring role as a Youth Board Member and Youth Ambassador at Take a Pain Check.Register for our in person event here by April 27th: https://forms.gle/tWdabTbta8ZYeieb8Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Jenna's socials:Instagram: _missjennak_ LinkedIn: Jenna Kedy Our socials:⁠https://www.takeapaincheck.comhttps://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheck

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, our host Natasha introduces our guest Dr Erica Lawson. Dr. Erica Lawson is a pediatric rheumatologist and Program Director for the UCSF Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship. We dive into her journey in medicine, passion for pediatric rheumatology, and the challenges young patients face—from diagnosis to transitioning to adult care. Dr. Lawson shares insights on parental involvement, health disparities, and the importance of collaboration in healthcare. She also discusses balancing family life with a demanding career. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes.Register for our in person event here: https://forms.gle/tWdabTbta8ZYeieb8Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:Website: ⁠www.takeapaincheck.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapainch...Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec...X: https://x.com/takeapaincheckLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take...#arthritis

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Natasha is joined by the inspiring Sahara as she shares her journey of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. They dive into the challenges of getting a diagnosis amid uncertainty, navigating university while managing a chronic illness, and finding the right resources for understanding RA.Sahara opens up about how her south Asian background influenced her family’s understanding of her condition and how she worked to create a supportive space for herself and others who are immunocompromised. She also talk about the importance of setting boundaries, adapting to unexpected challenges while traveling, and lifestyle changes that help her manage flares. Beyond her health journey, Sahara shares her passion for writing and gives us insight into her two books—Love Letters to Myself, a heartfelt collection of poetry on love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, and Reflections, which explores themes of heritage, culture, and love. She leaves us with valuable advice for students managing a rheumatic disease and reflects on what she would tell her younger self when she was first diagnosed.Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials:Website: ⁠www.takeapaincheck.comInstagram:   / takeapaincheck_  Tiktok:   / takeapainchec.  .X: https://x.com/takeapaincheckLinkedin:   / take-a-pain-check  Sahara’s socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missbrainyb...Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara

In this episode of Take a Pain Check, Natasha sits down with Brandon Volesky to explore his journey with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)—from being diagnosed at just two years old to navigating the challenges of childhood, overcoming stigma, and adapting his mindset to thrive as a husband, father, and professional. Brandon shares how his fear of medication affected his condition, how he ultimately embraced treatment, and how he transitioned from aspiring chef to becoming a Software and Data Engineer at H&R Block’s Machine Learning Lab. We dive into his work in AI and healthcare, his involvement with CARRA, and his passion for improving childhood rheumatology research. Through his lived experience, Brandon is leveraging machine learning and data science to transform healthcare and support better treatment options for future generations. Donate to Take a Pain Check Today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincheckApply to our scholarship today: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/schola...Apply for our NEW paid youth and young adult support program: https://forms.gle/W3ciBhG89eAH8QvS8Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.Our socials: Website: ⁠www.takeapaincheck.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapainchec...X: https://x.com/takeapaincheckLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-check/Brandon's socials: www.linkedin.com/in/bvoleskyCARRA: https://carragroup.org/Growing Pains, Copyright, 2018, Alessia Cara