Can you Live a Normal Life with Rheumatoid Arthritis?

<p>In this episode Cheryl explains how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has been key for her to build a life she loves despite chronic illnesses. She also shares how she’s found a balance between ways to minimize pain and ways to live a good life despite pain. Additionally she urges listeners to ask, “Can I live a good life despite rheumatoid arthritis?” rather than “Can I live a normal life with rheumatoid arthritis?” </p><p><strong>Speaker bio:</strong></p><p>Cheryl Crow is an occupational therapist who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for seventeen years. Her life passion is helping others with rheumatoid arthritis figure out how to live a full life despite arthritis, by developing tools to navigate physical, emotional and social challenges. She formed the educational company Arthritis Life in 2019 after seeing a huge need for more engaging, accessible, and (dare she say) FUN patient education and self-management resources. </p><p>Links to things discussed in the podcast episode:</p><ul><li><a href="https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/courses/rheum-to-thrive">Rheum to THRIVE membership </a>- sign up today (registration closes on March 31)!</li><li>Articles mentioned in this episode:<ul><li><a href="https://www.meduniwien.ac.at/web/en/about-us/news/detailsite/2018/news-october-2018/rheumatoid-arthritis-80-of-sufferers-can-now-live-a-normal-life/#:~:text=%E2%80%9C80%25%20of%20sufferers%20can%20lead,%2C%20(Division%20of%20Rheumatology).">Summary of research article:</a> “Rheumatoid arthritis: 80% of sufferers can now live a “normal” life</li><li>JAMA article: <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2705192">Diagnosis and Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis</a>: A Review</li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VF9-sEbqDvU">Marcel the Shell with Shoes on </a>(“Compared to what?”)</li><li><a href="https://thehappinesstrap.com/free-resources/">Russ Harris: The Happiness Trap</a></li><li><a href="https://contextualscience.org/act">Acceptance and Commitment Therapy</a> in