Karolyn Gehrig: Redefining Chronic Illness with #HospitalGlam on Mental Illness Happy Hour
I'm happy to talk about medical trauma and- and- or you know, I can, you know, I'm happy to talk about, not happy to talk about.
What if your everyday reality included frequent hospital visits and relentless pain? In this compelling episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', host Paul Gilmartin sits down with Karolyn Gehrig, an inspiring advocate living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and an inoperable brain tumor. Karolyn's journey is one of resilience and creativity. She's the mind behind #HospitalGlam, a movement that uses fashion and photography to shed light on invisible illnesses and empower those affected by them.
Through her candid conversation, Karolyn touches on a range of tough topics, from dealing with PTSD and chronic pain to facing sexism in the medical field. She shares the importance of self-care and finding a community of 'engaged patients' online, which has been a lifeline for her. Karolyn also opens up about the personal toll of medical trauma on relationships, including the difficult decision to distance herself from her mother.
This episode isn't just about the struggles; it's a testament to the strength found in community and the power of self-expression. Tune in for an episode that offers both empathy and inspiration, reminding us all of the importance of understanding and support in the face of chronic illness.