3. From Patient to Practitioner – A PKU Story of Purpose, Passion, and Practice with Brittany Murray

This month on Metabolically Speaking, we’re joined by Brittany Murray, a doctoral graduate, public speaker, and nurse practitioner at one of the world’s leading pediatric institutions. She’s also living with PKU.  In this inspiring episode, Brittany shares how she’s come to see her condition not as a limitation, but a gift. From her early involvement in the PKU community to building a career in healthcare, Brittany uses her experience to empower others living with rare metabolic conditions. Her journey is one of purpose, passion, and advocacy.Together with host Maridith Baker, Brittany explores the power of community, including friendships, shared experiences, and support systems that remind us that we’re never alone. We take a deep dive into the everyday realities of living with PKU: balancing protein levels, managing hunger, and finding satisfaction in familiar staples such as french fries. Brittany’s practical insights and lived experience shed light on what it truly means to live fully and freely with PKU.At the heart of this episode is empowerment. Brittany’s approach to healthcare is rooted in empathy and education and her philosophy of “blame the disease, not the patient” reminds us of the transformative impact of understanding and support. As Brittany beautifully puts it, “Your rare condition is your superpower.” Whether you’re living with PKU, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking knowledge and inspiration, this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and encouraged.If you’d like to know more after listening, you’ll find resources and links in the show notes below. Thank you for joining us! Find out more about Cambrooke: www.cambrooke.com/about LinkedInInstagramFacebookGet in touch with us: [email protected] Baker:InstagramLinkedInFacebookResources from Brittany:NECPADFLOKNPKUAPerspectives and Insights Into Phenylketonuria: Patient Narratives About the Early Years Following Newborn Screening - click hereNew England Consortium (Transition to Adulthood toolkit resources):Transition Toolkit — New England Consortium of Metabolic Programs PKU and Exercise:The exercising patient with phenylketonuria: Considerations and research recommendations - ScienceDirect  PKU-Sports-Nutrition-April-2018.pdf PKU dietary handbook to accompany PKU guidelines | Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases | Full Text