E28. Inside Cystic Fibrosis: Jeremie Saunders on Life, Humor, and Changing the Story

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Jeremy Saunders, Canadian actor, podcaster, and public speaker, to explore what it truly means to live with cystic fibrosis and how he has used storytelling, humor, and vulnerability to break health stigma.Jeremy shares what day-to-day life with CF looks like, including managing complex treatments, navigating travel, and balancing physical and mental health. We talk about how new medications like Trikafta have changed the landscape of CF care, while also acknowledging the realities that many people still face. Jeremy also discusses his “expiry date” mindset, embracing mortality, and choosing to live fully despite uncertainty.We dive into the origins and evolution of Sick Boy, the role of humor in serious conversations, and why authentic, sometimes uncomfortable dialogue is essential for building understanding and community. Jeremy also reflects on receiving the Meritorious Service Medal, his work with Breathless, and the projects he continues to pursue to raise awareness and support others living with chronic illness.This episode offers honest perspective for anyone living with a chronic condition, supporting someone who is, or interested in how storytelling and openness can change the way we talk about health.🎧 Sick Boy Podcast: https://www.sickboypodcast.com/ 🎧 Breathless Podcast: https://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/breathless 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast00:30 – Introduction to Jeremy Saunders00:32 – Jeremy’s career and achievements01:17 – Disclaimer and welcome01:42 – Jeremy’s experience with cystic fibrosis03:10 – Understanding cystic fibrosis beyond the lungs06:46 – Daily life with CF11:37 – Traveling with cystic fibrosis16:42 – Embracing mortality and living fully25:11 – Advancements in CF treatment28:45 – Humor in serious illness28:54 – The importance of authentic conversations29:59 – Navigating social interactions during hardship31:40 – Humor and seriousness in Sick Boy32:47 – Crossing the line in vulnerable conversations37:01 – The evolution and impact of Sick Boy40:33 – Receiving the Meritorious Service Medal44:12 – The mission behind Breathless48:27 – Living with uncertainty and optimism51:55 – The power of open dialogue56:13 – Upcoming projects and final thoughtsConnect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube!Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.