Life with Ulcerative Colitis: A Candid Chat with Angelica Catalano
We have to put a nice little bow on it and pretend it's in this little package. There's a balance where you learn, like, can I handle this?
Imagine living with a chronic illness that affects every aspect of your life. In this episode of 'Thoughtful Human', host Ali O'Grady sits down with Angelica Catalano, the Director of Social Impact at The Mighty, to discuss her 25-year journey with ulcerative colitis. Angelica opens up about the physical and mental hurdles she's faced and how she's managed to find strength and resilience along the way.
The conversation touches on the often-overlooked mental health impacts of living with a chronic illness and the importance of self-care and support systems. Ali and Angelica also chat about the crucial role of communities like The Mighty, which offers a safe space for people dealing with various health conditions. They discuss the significance of normalizing conversations around preventative measures like colonoscopies and pap smears, which are vital for those living with conditions like ulcerative colitis.
For those who have loved ones battling similar health challenges, this episode provides practical tips on how to navigate these sensitive conversations and set healthy boundaries. Caregivers will find valuable advice on maintaining their own well-being while supporting others. This episode isn't just about ulcerative colitis; it's about breaking down stigmas, fostering empathy, and offering hope.
Whether you're dealing with a chronic illness yourself or supporting someone who is, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding and practical advice you can use in your daily life.