Dizzy Directors: Interview with Katherine

SummaryKatherine McCrackin shares her experience with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and the challenges she has faced in getting medical help. She discusses how her symptoms developed after surgery and the difficulty she had in finding doctors who believed her and could provide proper care. Lauren Clark and Tori Mosser also share their experiences with POTS and the lack of knowledge and understanding among doctors. They talk about the importance of finding supportive doctors and the role of the POTS community in providing information and support. They also discuss the challenges of being a student with POTS and the need for more accessibility on college campuses. The conversation revolves around the challenges and experiences of individuals with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and dysautonomia. They discuss the difficulties of getting a proper diagnosis, the lack of understanding and awareness of these conditions, and the impact on daily life and career choices. They also touch on the topic of medical gaslighting and the importance of trusting one's own experiences and advocating for oneself. The conversation highlights the need for more accessibility and accommodations in various settings, including the arts and corporate America.TakeawaysPOTS can be triggered by surgery and can cause debilitating symptomsMany doctors are unfamiliar with POTS and may dismiss or misdiagnose patientsFinding supportive doctors who understand POTS is crucial for proper careThe POTS community provides valuable information and support for those with the conditionAccessibility and accommodations are important for students with POTS Getting a proper diagnosis for POTS and dysautonomia can be challenging due to a lack of understanding and awareness of these conditions.Medical gaslighting is a common issue faced by individuals with POTS and dysautonomia, and it is important to trust one's own experiences and advocate for oneself.Living with POTS and dysautonomia can have a significant impact on daily life and career choices, requiring accommodations and accessibility.The arts industry may be more accommodating to individuals with chronic illnesses like POTS, while corporate America may present more challenges.Connecting with others in the POTS and dysautonomia community can provide support, advice, and validation.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Experience with POTS08:23 The Lack of Awareness and Knowledge Among Doctors14:24 The Lack of Accessibility on College Campuses40:45 Trusting Your Experiences and Instincts