The Grief No One Talks About: Chronic Illness, Cancer, Infertility & Losing Your Old Life

When people hear the word grief, they often think about death. But what about grieving the life you thought you would have?In this episode, Stef and Lauren explore the hidden grief that comes with chronic illness, cancer, infertility, disability, and major life changes. They share their own experiences with breast cancer treatment, achalasia, infertility, and the heartbreak of watching your body, relationships, and future plans change in unexpected ways.Together, they discuss:• Grieving your health and the person you used to be• The emotional impact of chronic illness• Infertility and IVF grief that often goes unseen• Invisible losses like independence, identity, friendships, and spontaneity• Why grief can look like anger, guilt, exhaustion, or isolation• Healthy ways to process grief and move forward without pretending everything is okay• Finding hope, community, and meaning while life is still unfoldingIf you've ever felt like you're mourning a version of yourself that still exists, but has been forever changed, this conversation is for you.You can donate to Stef and Anthony here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/stef-strong-fighting-breast-cancer-together-3s9k2When Life Blows Up: https://laurenoreilly.org/register981831-8383Sponsor: Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 21 percent off with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty.Purple Horizon Boutique: Use code PURPLE10 at checkout for 10% off at https://purplehorizonboutique.com/If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here:https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcastFollow us on social media to stay up to date:https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcastListen to the podcast worldwide:iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvPSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-gutsPandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893