30 ~ Living with Chronic illness - Gastroparesis and Systemic Mastocytosis with the wonderful Maddy

In this episode, our guest Maddy shares her inspiring journey of resilience and hope, navigating life with two challenging Chronic Illnesses: Gastroparesis and Systemic Mastocytosis. Diagnosed in 2020 after enduring extensive testing and hospital stays, Maddy sheds light on the complexities of gastroparesis—a condition that paralyses the stomach, affecting both digestion and her large intestine. Bravely opening up about the impact on her life, Maddy discusses the necessity of stepping away from work and enduring a series of restrictive diets, including puree and liquid regimens. She describes her transformative experience of being tube-fed into her small intestine, detailing the newfound energy and mental clarity that has allowed her to return to work part-time after a hiatus of 3.5 years. Maddy also delves into the intricacies of Systemic Mastocytosis, a condition characterised by an excess of mast cells triggering inflammation and allergic reactions. Maddy speaks beautifully about the mental health challenges that come with chronic illnesses as they often bring isolation and overwhelming negatives. Maddy discusses how she copes with this and how she remains positive. Maddy has a sunshiney personality which shines through in the episode. Through her social media accounts, she aims to provide a supportive space for individuals facing chronic and mental illnesses, fostering a sense of community and emphasising the positives in every day. Join us for an uplifting exploration of Maddy's journey, marked by courage, resilience, and the power of community in the face of adversity. Follow our beautiful guest, Maddy : Instagram & YouTube 💗 Thank you so much for being here on this adventure with me! 💗 - Hayley xo ✨ Find us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beforeyoubloom⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠✨ The Before You Bloom Podcast is recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I would like to recognise their continuing connection to land, water, and culture and pay my respects to their elders past, present, and emerging, and any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people listening today.