What types of story tellers are you interested in?

What types of stories are you interested in?

     
    

Please Note: The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and are not medical advice. Please consult your physician for any questions you have related to your individual medical condition. If you are in need of immediate medical help, go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1.

PATIENT STORY

They keep on telling me different body parts are going, but I'm moving!

A woman diagnosed with interstitial lung disease describes her life changes following the diagnosis and the importance of family and positive attitude throughout other health battles.

March 24, 2016 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I had two weeks to live…it's now been 2 years since my transplant

A double lung transplant survivor conveys what life was like prior to diagnosis, pre-transplant, and post-transplant. In particular, the story focuses on how the transplant changed his social life and career.

March 24, 2016 | 18m 00s
PROVIDER STORY

A human has two components: mind and body; In treating the body, we must also treat the mind

A clinical psychologist shares her views on the impact illness has on patients, her experience treating patients in a hospital setting, and possible directions for future study.

April 15, 2016 | 16m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Life is just not about what you want, it is something so much beyond that as a caregiver

A granddaughter discusses her experience providing care for her grandfather.

April 28, 2016 | 21m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

There's a stigma of mental illness in the medical field

This caregiver tells her story of caring for a husband with myelofibrosis. She goes on to talk about several incidents that happened at local hospitals.

May 03, 2016 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I am a work in progress

A patient with Type 2 diabetes shares his insights for finding the right balance between medication, nutrition, and activity.

May 09, 2016 | 06m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It's helped me become a better person; I appreciate what I can do more. Life is more meaningful and I'm focused on what's important

A patient describes how his history with radiation treatment for testicular cancer was potentially causing problems 20-years later.

May 12, 2016 | 17m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

They need to treat the caregiver as much as they do the patient

A caretaker conveys the frustrations of communicating with and caring for his spouse with aphasia.

May 18, 2016 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Get involved with everything, go to the task force

A man with sleep apnea talks about what he likes and what he dislikes about his care and treatment.

May 19, 2016 | 10m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I'm this far and I'm going to fight it

This story delves into how a man's personal traumas drove him towards alcoholism. Throughout this story, he describes why he sought out treatment, the quality of his rehabilitation, and the process of staying sober.

May 20, 2016 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

When I found out I had cancer, I thought my life was over…but they caught it in time

A cancer-survivor shares why her healthcare team made a positive impression.

May 20, 2016 | 08m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I worked as a nurse for 30 years; It's a different perspective looking down than looking up

A former nurse gives unique insight about what it is like to be on the other side of the bedside, especially when dealing with problematic care and troubling doctors.

May 20, 2016 | 16m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

The people, the doctors, the staff here are at our disposal to help support, we're thankful that they're here

A son describes the emotional difficulties of taking care of his father with brain cancer but highlights his families satisfaction with their current health care system.

May 26, 2016 | 09m 00s
PATIENT STORY

To this day they have banned me as a patient, and I don't feel they were sincere about the autism diagnosis

A woman expresses concerns that she has been discriminated against due to her autism diagnosis.

May 27, 2016 | 11m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Running numbers with no explanations

A man shares his grievances with hospital billing and also discusses his wife's arthritis.

May 27, 2016 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Know yourself and know what your worth is

A veteran talks about the struggles of coping with the loss of his wife, loss of his motor skills, and loss of his hearing.

June 07, 2016 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Trial and error

A woman explains the trial and error process of finding a treatment for her vitiligo.

June 08, 2016 | 05m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Reversing diabetes

Through a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and a strong support network, this storyteller was able to take control of her diabetes.

June 09, 2016 | 16m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

You become afraid to live your life

A patient suffering from lung and cervical cancer details what she enjoyed about her health care team. Later, she discusses caring for a spouse with heart issues.

June 14, 2016 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Is it something in your lifestyle?

This storyteller recalls discovering his atrial fibrillation, how he manages life post-diagnosis, and the doctors he encountered along the way.

June 15, 2016 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Possibilities weren't communicated with me

Surviving partial thyroid removal, open heart surgery, a duodenal ulcer, and diabetes are just a few of the things this patient discusses, in addition to advocating for patients within a health care system.

June 15, 2016 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The Student Health Center

A student remembers a particularly troubling instance with a Student Health Center.

June 21, 2016 | 03m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Medications may fix one thing but harm another

This storyteller illustrates the difficulties of balancing multiple medications simultaneously.

June 22, 2016 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Prices need to come down

This storyteller explains her problems regarding daily care procedures and health care prices following a knee injury and skin issues.

June 22, 2016 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I tested HIV positive in 1995

With a diagnosis of HIV and breast cancer, a woman describes how she has stayed positive throughout her journey.

June 23, 2016 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I continued my trip around the world

A patient talks about life with heart issues, prostate cancer, and a torn quadricep.

June 24, 2016 | 06m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The best medical consult I've had in my life

This story revolves around a patient with a congenital heart defect and his treatment.

June 29, 2016 | 08m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Acknowledge the reality of the procedure

This story focuses on two instances of communication. In the first, the narrator focuses on communicating with her doctors after she lost her child during birth and the second instance centers around a lack of communication before surgery.

June 29, 2016 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I thought I was going to get better on my own

In this story, a patient walks us through the process of discovering their fatally low hemoglobin levels. The story continues with the subsequent diagnosis of clear cell cancer.

July 05, 2016 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Don't pay the total bill

This story touches on several issues with medical billing and provides some suggestions for the health care system.

July 07, 2016 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I've been allowing myself to make life changes

A patient details how the opportunity to have gastric bypass surgery was influenced by her lifelong journey with compulsive eating, dieting, and faith.

July 08, 2016 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

My body was able to adapt

A patient discloses the suppression and return of their atrial fibrillation.

July 11, 2016 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

You never know what someone else is going through

A patient born with thalassemia minor describes other health issues including arthritis, scleritis, tendonitis, vocal cord dysphonia, and goiter and identifies the difficulties of living with these disorders.

July 12, 2016 | 05m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The patient has to make the doctor hear them

A fibromyalgia patient describes the ins and outs of their life as a patient.

July 13, 2016 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Do you things for yourself

A stroke survivor illustrates what treatment was like post-stroke and the long road that was recovery.

July 20, 2016 | 07m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

She couldn't talk, she couldn't move her limbs

A daughter depicts the emotional toll caring for her mother took. Her mother suffered from an infection that sprung from a medical procedure.

August 02, 2016 | 08m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

The person behind the patient

A caretaker elucidates the difficulties of tending to an elderly woman and discusses her frustrations with doctors, nursing homes, and hospice care.

August 05, 2016 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I had too much to drink

A student recounts her interactions with medical personnel after consuming too much alcohol.

August 30, 2016 | 05m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Even though they're acting different, you still have to take care of them

A grandson shares his story of learning about his grandmother's diagnosis with Alzheimer's disease. As the story progresses, the storyteller describes how the diagnosis affected his family.

September 02, 2016 | 10m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

What's the prognosis?

A caregiver’s story about needing clear communication about prognosis from medical professionals, in the setting of a patient’s terminal cancer diagnosis.

September 15, 2016 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I think the worst pain is watching your loved ones see you suffer

A cancer patient describes her problems with her health care team.

September 21, 2016 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

They didn't treat me different because of how old I was

A woman with PCOS describes previous interactions with medical personnel and the process of learning about her diagnosis.

September 23, 2016 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

In the end, the doctor had my best interest at heart

This story revolves around each aspect of a patient's gastric bypass surgery.

September 29, 2016 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It was like a black void lifted

A transplant receiver talks about what it was like to get a new lung and heart. Throughout her story, she makes several suggestions to improve the health care system.

September 29, 2016 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I didn't really understand the procedure until after I came out of the anesthesia

A storyteller's description of treating chilblain and ingrown toenails with surgery and their subsequent recovery.

October 06, 2016 | 05m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The body is very delicate and it needs time to heal

An athlete outlines the injuries he sustained from football and how they prevented him from staying physically active.

October 13, 2016 | 06m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The most difficult part has been waiting for months on end for the health care I believe I need

A patient describes the issues with access to mental health care.

October 18, 2016 | 11m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Everyone reacts differently to different situations

A granddaughter tells the story of her grandmother's heart attack and elaborates on some of the frustrations her family experienced, including dietary changes, lack of communication, and a language barrier.

October 21, 2016 | 06m 00s
PATIENT STORY

There has been no easy part of being treated for the depression

A man who has suffered from depression for a large part of his life talks about how he finds support through medication and offers hope to those who may also be suffering from depression.

November 03, 2016 | 10m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I don't know anyone else my age who has ever had the whooping cough

A patient analyzes their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of pertussis, also known as whooping cough.

November 04, 2016 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Listen to your doctor, but listen to your own body first

This story chronicles a woman's diagnosis of lung cancer, the radiation treatment that damaged her heart, and the resulting open heart surgery.

November 07, 2016 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Every time I get prescribed a new medication I do my own research

A storyteller shares their concerns with how adequate mental health care is provided, especially when it comes to making informed decisions about medication.

November 08, 2016 | 08m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I got my life back thanks to my doctors

This storyteller describes surgery on her right and left shoulders, knees, and feet. She describes her tremendous recovery and her chance to walk again.

November 09, 2016 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I was so close to being one of the few female infantry members…all of that’s gone away

A woman describes life with a seizure disorder, expressing her gratitude for her PCP in their effort to get a reference to a neurologist.

November 09, 2016 | 19m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

There was a big cultural disconnect

A woman describes her poor interaction with medical professionals during her grandfather's hospitalization consequential to a fall.

November 10, 2016 | 16m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

I never got to say the things I wanted to say to him

This storyteller describes her caregiving experience while tending for her husband with Parkinson's disease.

November 11, 2016 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

They didn't treat me like I was a part of my own treatment

This patient describes miscommunication with healthcare professionals that caused a severe panic attack and the mistreatment she received from doctors.

November 17, 2016 | 14m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

It’s a gradual process

A patient emotionally describes his life as a caregiver for various family members. He also describes the stress stemmed from lacking good communication and support from healthcare professionals.

November 29, 2016 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

For about two and a half years I was in excruciating pain

A patient describes her experience with a herniated disk which resulted in a successful microdiscectomy.

November 29, 2016 | 09m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Be proactive versus reactive

A caregiver describes her experience providing care for her husband diagnosed with Lynch syndrome and the removal of pre-cancerous colon polyps and a section of the colon.

December 01, 2016 | 21m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I enjoy someone that will break things down to me

This storyteller describes life with diabetes, expands on issues with the expense of insulin, and expresses gratitude for doctors willing to honestly communicate health issues.

December 08, 2016 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It got worse before it got better

This patient describes symptoms leading up to the removal of a section of her bowel after being diagnosed with drug-induced lupus post-op.

December 19, 2016 | 19m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

When you take care of a senior the bureaucracy is not easy and overwhelming

A previous patient describes his issues with communication among health care professionals.

January 11, 2017 | 07m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Treat the patient, not the condition

A man stresses communication between doctor and patient after his experiences with atrial flutter and gastroesophageal reflux disease; he wants health care professionals to increase quality bedside manner and treat every person as a unique individual.

January 12, 2017 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I began noticing a trembling in my hand

This storyteller describes his symptoms leading up to and the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson's disease.

January 18, 2017 | 23m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Look for a specialist and get a second opinion

In this story, a woman describes life with a systemic condition that affects her stomach.

January 20, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It didn't seem like there was a lot of respect for us

This storyteller describes difficulties after a colonoscopy and endoscopy which resulted in aspiration. She expresses disappointment in healthcare staff.

January 23, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Hospitals hide what they are doing

In this story, a woman expresses extreme disappointment and frustration regarding hospital regulations and staff.

January 25, 2017 | 09m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The best non-support support group

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, this woman describes her life with the disease and the support she received from doctors, nurses, friends, and family.

February 03, 2017 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It was very nice to be able to ask questions and not feel like I was taking up their time

After struggling to get an answer for a hard to diagnosis illness, this storyteller expresses her satisfaction with hospital staff.

February 08, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I expected to feel better; I feel diminished

A previous patient describes her experience going through several surgeries consisting of a D&C, hysterectomy and a thyroidectomy.

February 08, 2017 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I am very lucky that my doctors trust me

In this discussion, a woman describes enduring illnesses since the age of two, including mast cell activation syndrome, anxiety, and depression.

February 13, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

"This could be signs of a stroke."

This storyteller details two hospital visits where she was diagnosed with strep throat on one occasion and Bell's palsy on the other.

February 13, 2017 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

You feel totally abandoned in the one place you should feel safe

In this story, a patient describes some larger issues stemming from her arachnoiditis.

February 17, 2017 | 22m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It's important for us to do what the doctor asks us to do

A woman expresses her difficulties with finding the root cause of her auto systemic scleritis and seronegative rheumatoid arthritis diagnoses and details her experiences with them.

February 20, 2017 | 09m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

To successfully care for her was the most noble, meaningful work I have ever done

This storyteller describes her experience as a caregiver for her sister who was diagnosed with and passed away from multiple myeloma.

February 22, 2017 | 09m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I've gotten along with all my doctors

This patient describes her strong relationship with doctors who help to manage and treat her mental health issues.

February 22, 2017 | 03m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I had 15 seizures in the course of three hours

In this conversation, a storyteller explains life with epileptic episodes including symptoms and treatment.

February 24, 2017 | 15m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

We all have expiration dates…and his was just a little bit sooner than everyone else's

In this moving story, a father details what it was like taking on the caregiver role for his son who was diagnosed with glioblastoma; he explains their daily life, interactions with nurses, and the emotional distress of his son's final days.

February 27, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The physician needs to be more involved

This storyteller describes the struggle finding treatment for his chronic pain, emphasizing the effects of the opioid epidemic and the importance of sincere, healthy patient-physician interaction.

March 01, 2017 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

There are times when I can't hold anything or lift anything

In this conversation, a woman recounts life with extended concerns originating from her diabetes diagnosis.

March 01, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

You need to be able to talk to someone who has the same thing as you

After being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, this storyteller explains the process of being diagnosed and receiving treatment for the respiratory disease.

March 01, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I had a week to live at one point

A patient describes life with HIV and the difficulties receiving adequate health care and financial support with treatment costs, but he expresses gratitude for the strong relationships with doctors.

March 02, 2017 | 07m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Once you've gone through something this serious, you have a new level of compassion for people dealing with scary health issues

In this story, a woman describes life with musculoskeletal disorders, ITP, and a diagnosis requiring surgery on a brain tumor.

March 08, 2017 | 10m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Everything I relied on was gone when I was having the seizures

After being diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy, this storyteller describes her life living with the arduous disorder.

March 08, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I can't even stand the smell of wheat

A man expresses his opinions about gluten and its influence on physical health.

March 09, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

When you're sick you're weak, but you don't have to be

In this conversation, a woman diagnosed with breast cancer describes her frustration with communicating with doctors.

March 15, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

There is more than medication that can fix a patient

A woman diagnosed with epilepsy details daily life living with her neurological disorder.

March 17, 2017 | 10m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Through my disability I have the ability to inspire

After finally being 17 years free of cancer, this woman reflects back on the symptoms which lead up to her diagnoses of lupus and cancer; she also explains the consequential struggles with treatment expenses while financially supporting her family.

March 22, 2017 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Childless not by choice

In this story, a woman describes issues regarding fertility treatments and general patient care, focusing on her experience enduring an ectopic pregnancy.

March 27, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

What you do early in life does catch up with you

A mother details her battle with weight loss which was made difficult with pregnancy, PCO, and hypothyroidism; now she plans to get bariatric weight loss surgery.

March 30, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I learned that things aren't always easy

In this story, a woman describes a successful IUD placement and positive support from doctors and nurses after a minor complication.

April 10, 2017 | 10m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I'm the one in control of how I feel and what I do

A woman diagnosed with lupus took it upon herself to look up and research her symptoms when doctors failed to diagnose different symptoms; she promotes self-advocacy once finding out she had temporal arteritis and polymyalgia.

April 12, 2017 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I worry about not being able to run anymore

A patient describes life with major depression and multiple sclerosis, touching on communicating with doctors to get the health care she needs.

April 12, 2017 | 16m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

"Dad has a stroke."

A woman describes her caregiving experience dealing with her father who suffered from a stroke, explaining the frustrations and positives takes from communicating with doctors and nurses.

April 14, 2017 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I noticed I could do over 200 bicep curls with the 6 lb. weight with my left arm, and I could only do 15 with my right arm

In this story, a man details his symptoms and consequential problems with diagnosing him with multifocal motor neuropathy and a paralyzed vocal cord.

April 28, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Sitting in a movie theater became so painful that I would have to walk out of the theater

After trying to lift a heavy amount of weight, this storyteller pulled the muscles in his back which eventually lead to his minor scoliosis.

May 02, 2017 | 10m 00s
PATIENT STORY

They just don't understand the difficultly level of being an extremely low-income person and having health issues at the same time

In this story, a woman describes her high-stress job catalyzing daily pain since struggling with weight loss; she emphasizes healthy diets, weight loss resources, and good communication with doctors while on a low income.

May 04, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Your health becomes your number one priority

This storyteller describes a series of health events that unfolded because of a rare, hereditary, hard to diagnose blood disorder including thoracic outlet syndrome, intense menstrual cycles, and a collapsed lung.

May 05, 2017 | 24m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Do what you can, where you can

A woman tells her story as a caregiver tending to a local family friend, who was diagnosed with heart issues and prostate cancer, as well as her mother who lived out of state until her final days.

May 05, 2017 | 23m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

It's very seldom the family has someone who can stop everything else and devote their whole time to doing everything that needs done

A caregiver shares her experience taking care of an elderly friend and advocates for doctors to improve their care for these patients by not prescribing an abundance of pills and providing resources for social interaction.

May 10, 2017 | 12m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

My story is about being a caretaker

In this story, a woman shares her experience as a caretaker for father, brother, and mother; she explains the importance of taking care of yourself while you focus on the health of others.

May 10, 2017 | 09m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I noticed symptoms that I wasn't used to before

A mother shares her experience with her cholecystectomy and now a painful hernia which interferes with her career as a nurse.

May 12, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Try to get help as much as possible

A woman details what life was like taking care of her husband who was diagnosed with Parkinson's while balancing her own heart issues and how she is currently concentrating more on her own well-being.

May 12, 2017 | 16m 00s
PROVIDER STORY

It would help the healthcare system a lot if we recruited better people, people more adaptable to the job

A man talks about CNA's and other health care professionals providing better daily life care for dementia and hospice patients, including patience and respect.

May 12, 2017 | 16m 35s
PATIENT STORY

It's really difficult, when you're in a depressive episode, to function right

In this story, a woman struggling with depression finds an issue with health care professionals not further testing or attempting to aid mental health problems.

May 15, 2017 | 08m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It is your body and you have to get to know it

After eating one day, this woman found herself at her PCP getting diagnosed with gastroparesis; she details how daily life has changed and how she has been her main source of support coping with the illness.

May 19, 2017 | 19m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Taking care of her can be a full-time job

This storyteller describes the juggling act of taking care of his fiance who suffers from chronic pain while simultaneously working to support his family and confronting the stigma of pain management within the medical community.

May 22, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I barely manage every day with seven medications

Fighting multiple preexisting conditions, this storyteller describes her chronic pain and mental disorders, appreciation for Medicaid, and the stigmas surrounding her pain management options which makes getting the proper treatment complicated.

May 26, 2017 | 21m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It is very easy to move from good healthcare to bad healthcare

A young man describes his experience in a psychiatric facility mentioning being poorly treated and forced to do what medical employees said. As a result, his view of health care systems has become negatively tainted.

June 05, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Remember, people are looking to you to have a little compassion and kindness

This storyteller describes her exceptional and poor interactions with different medical professionals, her intense fear of new medication, and her desire for new research and better treatment of those with breast cancer.

June 12, 2017 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Should I, as a patient, have to be calling pharmaceutical companies?

In this story, a woman describes her difficulty receiving the right pain treatment because of her doctor's office's poor management and insurance company's lack of help; she also advocates for better patient care for elderly patients.

June 13, 2017 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

They told me there was no help for me

After being diagnosed with interstitial lung disease and given months to live, this lung transplant patient describes her experience receiving the transplant and its effects.

June 19, 2017 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Everyone has to choose their own best treatment

A nurse shares her story about undergoing a laminectomy for her herniated discs and consequentially getting an infection; she conveys the importance of discussing emotions with your doctor and the need for patient advocacy.

June 23, 2017 | 21m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

She kept getting sicker and sicker

A daughter details her role as a caregiver for her mother who was battling diabetes ketoacidosis and the decision to go to the emergency room without insurance; she also discusses what daily life is like taking care of a loved one with type 1 diabetes.

June 26, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The slightest touch, a breeze of wind, even my clothing touching my skin at times causes pain that is inexplicable

This storyteller describes his 2-year journey being diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome while also handling multiple other health conditions like gastric bypass complications, sepsis, MRSA, and lymphedema.

June 27, 2017 | 25m 00s
PATIENT STORY

"I'd rather die than go back up in weight."

A woman describes her struggles finding proper support for her eating disorders that led to additional health issues.

June 30, 2017 | 21m 00s
PATIENT STORY

They explained everything thoroughly they was very polite they was very courteous if I had problems they told me what the problems could be...

This story teller describes his experiences with surgeries.

July 03, 2017 | 05m 57s
PATIENT STORY

The whole personal touch with health care is important

A patient suddenly experiences pain in his legs after riding his bike, and this health complication led to lifestyle changes and finding alternative methods to manage the symptoms.

July 03, 2017 | 21m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I was in the hospital for 5 months

Starting with an illness that had flu-like symptoms, the patient's health declined rapidly while being transferred to multiple hospitals to find treatment for various health issues.

July 24, 2017 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Everything is a problem when you are not sleeping

When originally suffering with a shoulder injury, a woman describes her experiences struggling with insomnia and finding a personalized treatment.

July 12, 2017 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

There's a difference between what you should say to a child's parent and what you should say to the child

A woman describes additional health problems such as anxiety and hormonal complications that stemmed from an eating disorder that became present in her high school years.

July 14, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Everybody's pain is different

When originally promised an easy fix for her jaw, this patient still encounters health problems from an implant treatment that lacks proper research behind it.

July 17, 2017 | 21m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

"Am I going to be a caregiver or a spouse?" - It's a tough thing to do

A caretaker and wife describes her troubles differentiating her roles while caring for her husband who suffered from diabetic complications, a spinal cord injury, and an organ transplant; she notes that the medical team seemed to be understaffed.

July 17, 2017 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

All of this was gone in 5 minutes

After suffering a spinal stroke, this storyteller details the consequences following the event; she discusses the benefits of physical therapies, the need for more research studies, and frustration with insurance companies.

July 18, 2017 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Hospitals are for patients, not people

In this story, a young woman describes the impact of growing up in a hospital setting. She talks about relying on a wheelchair, ventilator, constant care and how medical professionals should view hospitals differently.

July 18, 2017 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It became extremely painful just to sit in a car or walk

This young woman describes her story about a pilonidal cyst, consequential wound care, costochondritis, a herniated disc, and the help she received from medical professionals along her treatment journeys.

July 27, 2017 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

He didn't explain the after effects, what I could reasonably expect to happen to my body as a result of the operation

After being detected to have high PSA levels, this man was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer; he explains doctors not fully informing him about effects following surgery and radiation.

July 28, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

My left knee was giving me problems; they told me eventually I'd need a knee replacement

Feeling knee pain, this storyteller describes his experience undergoing shots, therapy, and eventually a full knee replacement. He advises those with a similar issue to find a well-recommended physician and follow his or her advice to best heal.

August 02, 2017 | 09m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Everything is affected by the scleroderma, it's just dealing with one issue after another; nobody really knows what's going on with it

A woman diagnosed with scleroderma describes her daily frustrations and frustrations with the medical community as her scleroderma diagnosis interferes regularly with her diabetes.

August 03, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It all started back in 1984, I was diagnosed as a diabetic

After being diagnosed with diabetes, this man's life changed drastically with additional complications such as congestive heart failure and stroke. He describes how his life has changed in significant ways and daily aspects.

August 03, 2017 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Chronic pain is very private and personal

In this story, a woman describes what life is like living with chronic pain; she details how it has affected her mental health, trust in faith, and thoughts on how doctors should listen and establish connections with their patients.

August 07, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

If I wouldn't have done my research, I wouldn't have known about it"

After having high blood pressure, this kidney transplant patient was sent to a nephrologist who removed his kidney after discovering a tumor.

August 14, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It very quickly could have become a danger to my life and my baby's life

In this story, a mother describes her birthing plan not going as planned due to preeclampsia. Yet she describes a positive experience with the hospital because they kept in mind her original birthing plans.

August 14, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The knowledge of the patient is very important

A woman who suffers frequent migraines describes how she copes with the reoccurring pain by combining traditional treatments with Western medicine if needed; she also details the daily changes she's had to make to best accommodate the pain.

August 16, 2017 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

If I wasn't with her everyday, then I was with her every other day

In this story, a man details his experience of losing his girlfriend due to kidney problems. He discusses the importance of psych wards being readily available for hospital patients as well as "mobile med" options for at home care.

August 18, 2017 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

There are rules in medicine that do not make any sense

A woman who has struggled with multiple health conditions explains her anger about the health care she's received, including an overlooked osteoporosis diagnosis and denial to get a hysterectomy after years of suffering from adenomyosis.

August 22, 2017 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I have learned to be very careful about who I tell what is wrong with me

After a freak accident, this woman suffers from TBI and details how her daily life has changed. She also describes the difficulty of finding support from family and medical personnel.

August 28, 2017 | 24m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

I want to give her every support that I can because she was there for me

After changing careers, this storyteller talks about the importance of mental health and family support after his wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer's; he also describes devoting some of his time to a cancer clinic.

August 30, 2017 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Let it be what it is going to be

In this story, a mother shares her experience giving birth to her son; she advises other expecting mothers to not listen to the scary stories of pregnancy and let the birthing process take whatever course it needs to despite prior planning.

August 31, 2017 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I had to keep pushing and pushing and advocating for myself

Suffering from stomach pains, this woman was eventually diagnosed with appendiceal cancer which started her on a journey to advocate for herself, lean on her husband for support, and rely on faith.

September 08, 2017 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

No one is going to advocate for you like you are

A woman diagnosed with bilateral popliteal artery entrapment conveys what life is like with her health condition and how it has changed following many tests and surgeries.

September 11, 2017 | 15m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

Not only do you need to take care of your family member, but you need to take care of yourself

A father and caregiver shares his story about looking after his son and details why he thinks HIPAA laws should be modified when taking care of someone with mental health and addiction issues.

September 15, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

We are all neurodivergent to some degree

This storyteller describes his chronic depression and anxiety disorders and their implications on daily life; he also talks about the stigma of mental illness and advises those with mental to be patient during the process.

September 18, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Fine motor control? I don't have it anymore

In this story, a man diagnosed with MS describes other health-related issues caused by the disease, life-changing symptoms like lack of balance and tremors, how his health care team has supported him, and how they have not due to the opioid crisis.

September 20, 2017 | 19m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

I had experienced two different types of death

This storyteller shares her experiences as a caregiver for her father who was diagnosed with MS, her mother who suffered from mental health issues and kidney failure, and a young family friend who is scared of his symptoms.

September 25, 2017 | 17m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

I'm grateful that his illness was caught when it was, but there is some sadness that comes with this too

A wife describes her husband's diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer; she details his surgery and its outcomes and how the urologist did not thoroughly explain the implications of the procedure.

October 11, 2017 | 08m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Make sure you get the care that you deserve

This storyteller talks about her experience being a cardiac patient since birth and how it has been different getting medical treatment with the preexisting condition.

October 13, 2017 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

When it comes to prostate surgery, it is critical to not only think about the patient, but their significant other

A man diagnosed with prostate cancer shares a few stories about his interactions with the medical community including poor insurance coverage and life-altering effects following his surgery.

October 18, 2017 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I was not prepared for a diagnosis of arthritis

A woman diagnosed with arthritis in her hip details the process of getting diagnosed and how the diagnosis has changed her daily life and future as she's deciding whether or not to get a hip replacement.

October 25, 2017 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

When you become an RN, or any healthcare provider, you need to be nice to the people

After suffering from respiratory cardiac arrest, this woman details the inadequate bedside manner she received and how her overall health and daily life changed because of the event.

October 27, 2017 | 17m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

It was a challenging and emotional time for her and for me

A daughter conveys the emotional time taking care of her mother who was diagnosed with stage three ovarian cancer and a hip problem; she also explains the importance of taking care of oneself if you are a caregiver.

October 30, 2017 | 15m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

I was a thousand miles away and I diagnosed my mother with a heart attack

This storyteller shares her experience caregiving for her blind husband who suffered from alcoholism and depression and her mother who was diagnosed with breast cancer and cardiac arrest issues.

November 03, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It makes it difficult to do everyday tasks, but I've learned to work around it

A young woman describes her experience with a cyst in her wrist which required multiple aspirations. Still dealing with daily pain, she wishes that young people were taught more about insurance and the medical community.

November 06, 2017 | 12m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

They know their culture and their way of life works, so they feel they do not have to depend on Western medicine

A granddaughter and caregiver describes what it's like taking care of her diabetic Laotian grandmother; she emphasizes the impact of language and cultural barriers for someone from Southeast Asia receiving Westernized medical treatments.

November 13, 2017 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Therein was the beginning of the worst experience I have ever had in my entire career

Usually, at the hospital working as a nurse, this storyteller describes her experience as a patient recovering from a surgical procedure. She details the lack of attention and respect from other nurses.

November 15, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I got all the wrong information

A woman diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes discusses the importance of a healthier diet and the medical need for doctors to educate diabetic patients to change their diets appropriately.

November 29, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

We need more of a focus on mental health issues

In this story, a young man explains his ADD diagnosis and journey with it as he's grown into adulthood; he also expresses his concern for therapists who don't accept patients with the diagnosis.

November 29, 2017 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Listen to your doctor

An MS patient describes his experience with a near-death heart attack unrelated to his MS diagnosis; he describes the great care he's received throughout his medical journeys and the importance of listening to one's doctor.

December 08, 2017 | 18m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I kept ringing the bell and no one would come

A woman tells an emotional story about her time as a caregiver and as a patient in a nursing home unwilling to help her during her recovery after a severe car accident.

December 14, 2017 | 20m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

He said "I don't want anything that will keep me alive a minute longer."

A woman shares her moving experience caring for her aunt who was diagnosed with glioblastoma and her uncle who had ALS and chose a no intervention plan. She talks about daily living in their final days.

December 19, 2017 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

When I get up in the morning, I automatically get dizzy

This storyteller describes her experiences with two brain tumors and what medical care she's needed over the course of her life; she details one surgery that almost cost her her life and the many communicative health professionals who support her now.

December 21, 2017 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

It used to be that when I was tired I would have seizures; now when I am tired, I am just tired, and it's wonderful

In this story, a woman diagnosed with epilepsy describes her own medical struggles and what it was like balancing that with her child who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy; she describes the stress and daily life of their dynamic.

January 02, 2018 | 22m 00s
PATIENT STORY

You are the patient and you deserve to be cared for

After ending up in a coma for 10 days, this woman was eventually diagnosed with Legionnaire's Disease; she describes the struggle to get proper care during her hospital stay and referrals for her diagnosis.

January 03, 2018 | 34m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The whole of lymphedema is the knowledge that it is there forever; that word appears in front of me in a huge typeface every time I try to do something

Originally admitted for cellulitis, a man diagnosed with lymphedema discusses his struggles with the disease and how physical therapy has made an impact.

January 04, 2018 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

You are not your diagnosis, you are a person

In this story, a woman diagnosed with Legionnaires' Disease describes the importance of faith and positive thinking during her health struggle and how others should find hope during their health battles as well.

January 19, 2018 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Through months and months of rehab I was able to get my strength back

After traveling throughout the world, this man returned home to discover a brain aneurysm; after medical intervention, he learned how to talk, see, and walk properly again.

January 23, 2018 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Never trust doctors with your test results, be a manager of your own health

This mother talks about her kidney failure consequential of a genetic disease; she describes her transplant, its effects, and how being a mother throughout this time also played a role in her health.

January 23, 2018 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

My biggest struggle is that I have depression, but health care providers disbelieve what I say

A young woman with depression details how her mental health disorder has affected continuing her education and how medical professions exercised the same stigma about mental health issues while she was trying to get treatment.

February 06, 2018 | 29m 00s
PATIENT STORY

To live with my heart issue is at times scary

Diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, this woman describes her experience with the defect and advocates for more financial and mental support for others diagnosed with heart defects.

February 08, 2018 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I never thought childbirth could be life or death, but even nowadays anything could happen

In this story, a mother shares her experience giving birth to her son. She describes her high-risk pregnancy, emergy cesarean section, time in the ICU, and how hospital staff could improve care for patients like herself.

February 19, 2018 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Everything was going pretty well until 31 weeks and then I went into pre-term labor

A mother describes her pregnancies, focusing on her first child who was born preterm and had to stay in NICU. She wishes doctors would discuss symptoms and the pregnancy process in more depth for mothers going through the process.

February 19, 2018 | 23m 00s
PATIENT STORY

He had a BRCA1 mutation, we didn't pay a lot of attention to it at the time

A woman describes her story about discovering she was positive for the BRCA1 gene and how the diagnosis impacted her decision to receive surgeries.

February 22, 2018 | 17m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I've learned to advocate for myself

This storyteller describes her diagnosis with transverse myelitis and its physical and psychological effects on her body. She emphasizes the importance of a positive attitude and healthy personal interactions as she copes with intense daily pain.

February 23, 2018 | 17m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

It can be very trying caring for a loved one

In this story, a man details the emotional time he shared with his wife during her final days. He talks about the importance of continuing daily life, therefore requiring aides to come in to help, and relays the heart-rending toll of the experience.

February 27, 2018 | 03m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Doctors need to be aware of their staff

This mother of four talks about her experiences giving birth to preterm twins after a high-risk pregnancy. She details what life was liking during that time and what life is like raising children on the spectrum.

February 28, 2018 | 19m 00s
PATIENT STORY

They could have treated me more like a person, and less like a hot potato

This man talks about his medical journey dealing with several doctors, several contradictory opinions, and several diagnoses after being told there was nothing that could be done to resolve his symptoms.

March 06, 2018 | 09m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

As international students, insurance plays a big role in our lives

In this story, a young woman discusses a traumatic event her friends underwent after suffering a seizure. She talks about how professionals educated her and other friends about handling future seizures and how important insurance is.

March 06, 2018 | 07m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I told them I was in pain and it was like they could not care less

A man who suffers from heart attacks describes his experiences receiving treatment, a doctor who ignored his pain completely during a procedure, and nurses who disregarded patient privacy.

March 07, 2018 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The same week I was diagnosed with lymphoma, he was in the ICU recovering from a transplant

This storyteller talks about her fight against her Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis during the same time as her husband's organ transplant, the different forms of treatment she undertook, and the cancer's recurrence once she retired.

March 08, 2018 | 23m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

She was stuck in the birth canal face-first

A mother shares her story about giving birth to her child who was stuck in the birth canal. She describes how a new round of nurses called a doctor who aided in the birth quickly.

April 18, 2018 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Take your healthcare into your own hands

After waiting one and a half years to be diagnosed, this storyteller describes her symptoms, lack of interest and answers given by most doctors, and effects that Lyme disease had on her usual daily routine.

March 29, 2018 | 11m 00s
PATIENT STORY

There are very real consequences to having unprotected and dangerous sex

This college student details his story about HIV scares and the importance of being well educated when it comes to safe sex because being unaware of your health status can also have mental repercussions such as anxiety and depression.

March 30, 2018 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I never heard about it until I got diagnosed

A man diagnosed with MS talks about the beneficial new and upcoming medication, the importance of a positive support system, and how his doctors have helped to slow down the disease's progress.

March 30, 2018 | 14m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The partial loss of my right hand is something I did not prepare for

In this story, a man talks about his carpal tunnel syndrome and consequential surgery as well as his fall down the stairs and spinal stenosis diagnosis. He advocates for retiring earlier in life to enjoy being generally healthier.

April 03, 2018 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Arthritis has been part of my life everyday

This storyteller explains his diagnosis of arthritis. He discusses the joint replacements he's had done, the effect of his medications, and the benefit of finding a good rheumatologist.

May 04, 2018 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The more I knew, the more healthy conversations I could have with my doctors

In this story, a woman details her medical journey with breast cancer and endocarditis resulting in two heart valve replacements. She emphasizes the challenge of switching health care insurances.

May 10, 2018 | 15m 00s
PATIENT STORY

The best care is being your own advocate

This three-time cancer survivor describes her encounters with colon cancer, endometrial cancer, and skin cancer and how her health care team was always there to support and treat her.

May 10, 2018 | 12m 00s
PATIENT STORY

If you look at me on the outside I look great, but inwardly I'm a mess

Already diagnosed with transverse myelitis, this woman describes how she experienced more symptoms which lead to an MS diagnosis. She focuses on the struggle to find a specialist in-network and the costs of medications.

May 11, 2018 | 21m 00s
CAREGIVER STORY

We used to be partners in doing most everything and that's impossible now

A caregiver tells her story of taking care of her husband suffering from dementia and how their lives have changed since the diagnosis.

May 14, 2018 | 20m 00s
PATIENT STORY

If you suspect that you need help, then you are probably correct

After struggling to find help for mental illness for a few years, a woman finally finds the resources needed.

May 14, 2018 | 13m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Trust your doctor as best you can

A man receives open heart surgery to replace a heart valve, but a few years later, he experiences heartburn symptoms that lead to the diagnosis of carcinoma and a Whipple procedure.

May 16, 2018 | 16m 00s
PATIENT STORY

I have a voice and I decided to use it

A patient diagnosed with multiple sclerosis shares experiences of finding a doctor, managing symptoms, and keeping employment while spreading advocacy.

May 17, 2018 | 38m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Continue to be the voice for the voiceless and the face for the faceless

After being referred to a nephrologist from kidney problems, a man shares his story of receiving a kidney transplant after a few complications along the way.

May 18, 2018 | 22m 00s
PATIENT STORY

Don't take your health lightly

Alarming symptoms cause a man to seek medical attention from a nephrologist, and he received news that he had a kidney disease that managed through dialysis.

May 18, 2018 | 29m 00s
PATIENT STORY

If there is a reason I am still left on this earth, it is to help

First thinking that she had sinus infections and allergies, a woman's doctor discovered that she had Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and she shares her recovery pro