224. Living with MS: Understanding Body Grief and Healing Physical Loss - Interview with Jayne Mattingly

In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Jayne Mattingly, an inspiring figure in the realms of chronic illness and disability advocacy.  We dive into the concept of body grief and explore its seven stages, offering insights and strategies that can resonate deeply with those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Jane shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting how acknowledging body grief can lead to healthier coping mechanisms and a more resilient approach to managing chronic illnesses. Our discussion provides valuable perspectives aimed at improving your quality of life with MS while navigating the challenges it may bring.  Tune in for a heartfelt and insightful conversation filled with expertise and encouragement for your MS journey! About our guest:  Jayne Mattingly, 33, is an Eating Disorder therapist turned, Chronic Illness and Disability Advocate, Author and Body Acceptance social Media Influencer and Artist.    Jayne is a leader who speaks up for those that are disabled, chronically ill, struggling with eating disorders, and/or mental illness. Her vulnerable, open, and honest content breaks barriers for those who are left out and unseen in an ableist-focused world. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, specializing in eating disorder recovery and body image struggles.   Jayne candidly shares her learnings, hardships, and growth, all while breaking stigmas and normalizing body grief. Her content, mission, upcoming book; This is Body Grief (published by Penguin Random House) and newsletter, Body Grief (on Substack), non-profit, provide a safe space and support for an unseen and unheard community.  Jayne is also newly disabled by her progressive and degenerative illnesses; Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, intracranial hypertension, and now a severe allergy to the metal that has been implanted in her body and as a result has had more than 19 brain procedures and total hysterectomy. She relies on her rollator, wheel chair and her service dog Wheatie.     Jayne is a Chicago, Illinois, native and now lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and pets. Connect with Jayne: Website: https://www.jaynemattingly.com/   Resources mentioned in the episode: Jayne’s book, This Is Body Grief - https://www.jaynemattingly.com/the-book Jayne’s substack: https://jaynemattingly.substack.com/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink