Living Beyond the Invisible: A Walk With Heather

When you live with invisible disabilities, sometimes you need to use mobility aids. When you're younger, this tends to draw attention to you and not always good attention. In this episode, I talk about how invisible disability doesn't care how old you, it strikes hard and sometimes that means you need to use tools to help you survive.Show Sources:CDC-Disability/Mobility DataNational Institute of Health-Mobility in Younger AdultsConnect With Me:⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠PatreonMusic From: Purple Planet

What happens when your medical insurance denies your claim? In this episode, I will be discussing how insurance denials cause harm to those living with invisible disabilities. I will also talk about what you can do if that happens to you!Show Sources:Kaiser Family Foundation - Claims DenialAmerican Medical AssociationNational Library of MedicineConnect With Me:⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠PatreonMusic From: Purple Planet

In this episode, I break down what most people never explain about chronic pain and real-life pain management. I talk about how chronic pain rewires the nervous system, why so many of us with invisible disabilities struggle to be believed, and the emotional and spiritual impact of living in a body that hurst every day. If you're looking for validation, science-backed insight, and hope on your chronic pain journey, this episode is for you.Show Sources:International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) CDC-Chronic Pain OverviewCleveland Clinic-Central SensitizationNational Institutes of Health (NIH)Connect With Me:FacebookTikTokPatreonMusic From: Purple Planet

In this episode, I explore how faith can play a role in finding meaning and purpose while living with an invisible disability. We’ll talk about navigating the emotional and spiritual challenges that come with chronic illness, how to reconcile frustration and hope, and ways to lean on your beliefs to find strength in difficult moments. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded, find purpose, or connect your faith to your experience of disability, this episode offers encouragement and insight.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

In this episode, I talk about the often-overlooked reality of social loss for those living with invisible disabilities. Friendships can change or fade when chronic illness or disability enters the picture, and it can feel isolating and heartbreaking. We’ll discuss why this happens, how to process grief around lost connections, and ways to build meaningful relationships that understand and respect your boundaries. If you’ve struggled with friends pulling away or not understanding your needs, this episode offers perspective, reassurance, and practical guidance.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

In this episode, I dive into what it really means to be labeled a “difficult” patient and why advocating for yourself in the medical system is not the same as being aggressive. We’ll explore the fine line between standing up for your health needs and being misunderstood, how invisible disabilities often make advocacy necessary, and why it’s okay to insist on being heard and taken seriously. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, dismissed, or afraid to speak up in a doctor’s office, this episode is for you.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

When people hear the word “ableism,” they often think of blatant discrimination — things like refusing someone a job because of a disability. But the truth is, ableism often hides in plain sight. It’s in the comments people make, the assumptions they hold, and the systems that were never designed with us in mind.In this episode, I’m breaking down what ableism really looks like for people living with invisible disabilities — from the subtle moments of disbelief and judgment to the ways our needs are minimized or ignored. I’ll talk about how it shows up in workplaces, healthcare, and even in everyday conversations, and how we can start recognizing and challenging it when we see it.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

For people living with invisible disabilities, hearing the word “lazy” can be painful and frustrating. In this episode, I unpack how this word is often used to dismiss real struggles with fatigue, pain, or brain fog, and how it impacts self-esteem and daily life. I explore why being called “lazy” is rarely about choice and discuss ways we can reframe the conversation around productivity, energy, and self-compassion.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

There are few things more frustrating or more damaging than being dismissed by the very people who are supposed to help you. Medical gaslighting happens when symptoms are ignored, minimized, or blamed on anxiety, stress, or weight instead of being taken seriously. For those of us living with invisible disabilities, this experience is far too common and often delays real diagnosis and treatment for years.In this episode, I’m talking about what medical gaslighting looks like, how it affects both our physical and emotional health, and why it’s so important to trust what our bodies are telling us. I’ll also explore how we can advocate for ourselves in medical settings and start to rebuild trust after being dismissed or disbelieved.If you’ve ever walked out of an appointment feeling unheard or doubting your own experience, this episode will hit close to home.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

Saying “no” should be simple, but for many of us living with invisible disabilities, it comes with a heavy weight of guilt. Whether it’s turning down social plans, declining extra work, or even saying no to family, that one word can leave us feeling like we’ve let everyone down.In this episode, I’m talking about why saying no is so hard, how guilt shows up in our lives, and why setting boundaries isn’t selfish — it’s survival. I’ll share the ways we can begin to shift our perspective on rest, learn to protect our energy, and remind ourselves that our health has to come first.If you’ve ever struggled with the guilt of saying no, this conversation is for you.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

Chronic fatigue is one of the most common and often misunderstood symptoms for people living with invisible disabilities. In this episode, I talk about what chronic fatigue really feels like, why it’s more than just being tired, and how it can impact daily life in ways others might not see.We’ll explore the physical, emotional, and mental challenges of living with persistent exhaustion, discuss strategies for managing energy, and highlight the importance of self-compassion when your body doesn’t match your intentions. This episode is for anyone who wants a better understanding of chronic fatigue and the realities of living with it.Connect with me:Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

Some days, simply getting through life with an invisible disability or chronic illness can feel like a full-time job. In this episode, we'll explore what it really means to live in “survival mode” when your body doesn’t cooperate and your symptoms are invisible to others.I'll discuss the physical, emotional, and mental challenges of daily life, shares coping strategies, and emphasizes the importance of pacing and self-compassion. If you’ve ever felt like just functioning is a victory, this episode is for you.Connect with Heather:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walkingwithheatherTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@walkingwithheatherPatreon: www.patreon.com/walkingwithheather

Grieving Your Old Life: The Loss No One SeesWhen you live with an invisible disability, the grief you carry isn’t always about what people expect. It’s not just about a diagnosis—it’s about losing the version of yourself you used to be. The one who could move freely, live spontaneously, and exist without constantly planning around symptoms or limitations.In this episode, Heather dives deep into the silent grief so many in the invisible disability community face—the loss that comes without a funeral, without casseroles, and without recognition. She shares why this grief is valid, how it can show up in unexpected ways, and why acknowledging it is a critical step toward healing.If you’ve ever looked back at your old life and felt the ache of what’s gone, this conversation is for you. You are not alone. Your grief is real. And your story matters.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:The hidden nature of grief with invisible disabilitiesWhy this grief often goes unrecognized by othersThe emotional toll of losing abilities, independence, and identityHow to honor and process this unique kind of lossWhy you are still whole—right here, right nowConnect with Heather:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738Patreon: https://patreon.com/LivingBeyondtheInvisible Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Heather explores the heart of what Living Beyond the Invisible stands for: the importance of advocacy and awareness for people living with invisible disabilities.Heather breaks down what invisible disabilities are, why they’re so widely misunderstood, and how this lack of awareness fuels stigma, isolation, and discrimination. From emotional tolls to workplace challenges, this episode highlights how society often doubts what it cannot see—and why changing that mindset is essential.With research, real-life examples, and compelling quotes, Heather also unpacks the power of storytelling in advocacy, the dangers of misinformation and fabricated illnesses on social media, and what it means to be a genuine ally in today’s digital age.What You'll Learn in This Episode:📌 What defines an invisible disability💡 Why awareness is the first step toward inclusion💬 The emotional impact of being doubted or dismissed📉 The consequences of faking illness on social media📢 How advocacy shows up in both big movements and small conversations🧠 How to be a responsible ally or advocate in your communityLet’s Stay Connected!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbeyondwalkwithheatherEmail: [email protected] Resources:Invisible Disabilities Association – www.invisibledisabilities.orgCDC Disability Statistics – cdc.govAsbring & Narvanen (2002), Journal of Health PsychologyJob Accommodation Network Report (2022) – askjan.orgRuderman Family Foundation (2018 Survey)Hannah Soyer in Teen Vogue – "Faking Disabilities on TikTok"Psychology Today (2023) – "Faking Illness on Social Media"Amanda C. Riley (Scamanda Case) – Justice.govBelle Gibson Case – BBC NewsCrutches & Spice Blog by Imani Barbarin – crutchesandspice.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt episode of Living Beyond the Invisible, Heather steps back from the mic to amplify the voices of those living with invisible disabilities. Featuring four powerful listener stories, this episode brings you firsthand accounts of resilience, pain, strength, and hope.From navigating daily life with chronic conditions to dealing with disbelief and stigma, these deeply personal narratives offer a raw and honest look into what it means to live with an invisible disability. Each story is unique—but they all echo a common truth: just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not real.Let’s Stay Connected!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbeyondwalkwithheatherEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Heather dives into the deceptive practices of certain weight loss influencers who promote unrealistic and potentially harmful dietary habits. She discusses the impact of these influencers on individuals with invisible disabilities, emphasizes the importance of whole foods over processed alternatives, and provides guidance on identifying misleading nutrition advice.Let’s Stay Connected!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbeyondwalkwithheatherEmail: [email protected] Resources:"Health and Wellness Influencer Sparks Backlash for Using Weight Loss Medication" – People.comhttps://people.com/health-and-wellness-influencer-sparks-backlash-for-using-weight-loss-medication-11722799 "Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Higher Risk of Early Parkinson's Symptoms, New Study Finds" – Health.comhttps://www.health.com/ultra-processed-foods-parkinsons-symptoms-11733780 "What Doctors Wish Patients Knew About Ultraprocessed Foods" – American Medical Associationhttps://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-ultraprocessed-foods "Fact-Checking Nutrition Influencers: 8 Red Flags to Help You Spot Nutrition Misinformation" – Mayo Clinic Presshttps://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/nutrition-fitness/fact-checking-nutrition-influencers-8-red-flags-to-help-you-spot-nutrition-misinformation/ "Fake Fitness Influencers: The Secrets and Lies Behind the World's Most Envied Physiques" – The Guardianhttps://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/may/15/fake-fitness-influencers-the-secrets-and-lies-behind-the-worlds-most-enviable-physiques "Catfish: The TV Show" – MTVhttps://www.mtv.com/shows/catfish-the-tv-show  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, our host Heather explores what it really takes to get and train a service dog, how they differ from emotional support and therapy animals, and the harm caused by fake service dogs. Learn what the law says, how to protect access rights, and why service dogs are more than just pets.Let’s Stay Connected!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbeyondwalkwithheatherEmail: [email protected] Resources:1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Service Animal FAQshttps://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Assistance Animals in Housinghttps://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/assistance_animals3. U.S. Department of Transportation – Service Animal Final Rule (Air Travel)https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals-final-rule4. Pet Partners – What Is a Therapy Animal?https://petpartners.org/volunteer/therapy-animal-program/what-is-a-therapy-animal/5. Alliance of Therapy Dogs – Therapy Dog Infohttps://www.therapydogs.com/6. Psychology Today – The Differences Between Therapy Animals and Emotional Support Animalshttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-human-equation/201906/the-difference-between-service-emotional-support-and-therapy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this weeks episode, we will discuss how delays in diagnosis can impact someone's over all life.Resources:1. https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/about-us/leading-the-way/fibromyalgia2. https://www.lupus.org/resources/reducing-time-to-diagnosis3. https://acrabstracts.org/abstract/factors-influencing-time-to-diagnosis-in-u-s-patients-with-systemic-lupus-erythematosus/4. https://www.facebook.com/ehlers.danlos/posts/the-average-time-to-diagnosis-of-an-ehlers-danlos-syndrome-eds-or-hypermobility-/101592515866303365. https://www.dysautonomiainternational.org/page.php?ID=1846. https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/forefront.20210727.651552/full/7. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-022-07524-1Let’s Stay Connected!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbeyondwalkwithheatherEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey friends—welcome back to Living Beyond the Invisible! I’m your host, Heather, and today I’m diving into something that hits close to home for so many of us: how invisible disabilities impact our mental health.As always, I want to remind you that I’m not a medical professional—just someone living with invisible disabilities, sharing what I’ve learned through personal experience and research. This podcast is here to inform, encourage, and connect—not replace medical advice.In this episode, I talk about the mental and emotional toll of living with conditions people can’t see. Things like fibromyalgia, CHD, autoimmune issues, chronic pain, and more. These illnesses might be invisible, but the weight they carry definitely isn’t.In this episode, I share:Depression — how chronic illness changes your view of yourself and the worldAnxiety — from health anxiety to fear of not being believedMedical PTSD — and my own experiences navigating trauma from surgeries and misdiagnosesLoneliness & Isolation — when your body keeps you from participating and people drift awayImposter Syndrome — those awful moments of doubt: "Am I really sick enough?"I also get personal and share part of my own journey, including surviving multiple open-heart surgeries, my battle with breast cancer, and how trauma from these experiences has shaped my mental health journey.Whether you're living with invisible disabilities or love someone who is, I hope this episode reminds you that you're not alone—and that what you're feeling is real and valid.Let’s Stay Connected!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090200150738#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbeyondwalkwithheatherEmail: [email protected] & Mentions:Journal of Affective Disorders (2021): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032721001213Anxiety & Depression Association of America: https://adaa.orgCDC Mental Health and Disability Data: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/features/mental-health-for-all.htmlPTSD in Chronic Illness (General Hospital Psychiatry, 2022): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0163834321001081Disability and Rehabilitation Journal (2022): https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/idre20/currentThanks so much for listening. If this episode resonated with you, feel free to share it, leave a review, or message me—I truly love hearing from you.Until next time, keep walking your walk—you're doing better than you think. 💜 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Episode:Join me this week to discuss what it's like working with invisible disabilities. We'll talk about disclosure, accommodations and discriminations along with sharing a few personal stories of others.Resources:Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – https://askjan.orgU.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) – https://www.eeoc.govCenter for Talent Innovation (2021) – "Disabilities and Inclusion" ReportSHRM (Society for Human Resource Management), Workplace Disability Report, 2020 – https://shrm.orgADA National Network – https://adata.orgDisability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) – https://dredf.orgA Better Balance – https://www.abetterbalance.orgDisability:IN – https://disabilityin.orgJoin the Conversation!If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Start a conversation, raise awareness, and remember—you are not alone in this.🔹 Follow me on Facebook: Living Beyond the Invisible: A Walk with Heather🔹 Follow me on Instagram: Living Beyond the Invisible: A Walk with Heather🔹 Leave a review—it helps more people find this community!Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, take care and remember: some of the bravest things we do are the things no one can see. 💙 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me to learn more about Masking and why it's something that the majority of people with invisible disabilities often hide behind.Find me on Facebook hereResources:Invisible Disabilities Association: invisibledisabilities.orgNAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness: nami.org“Unmasking Autism” by Dr. Devon Price“The Spoon Theory” by Christine MiserandinoNeurodivergent Insights on Instagram – great psychoeducational content Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Living Beyond the Invisible, we take a deep dive into rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints but can also impact other organs. We discuss how RA differs from osteoarthritis, its symptoms, causes, and the daily challenges faced by those living with the condition.Listeners will learn about the physical, emotional, and social toll that RA can take, including the unpredictability of flares, chronic fatigue, and the emotional weight of living with an invisible illness. We also explore the various treatment options available—such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes—and discuss strategies for managing RA and maintaining a high quality of life.Throughout the episode, we highlight the importance of early diagnosis, self-advocacy, and finding a support system, whether through friends, family, or online communities. Living with RA can be challenging, but with the right tools and support, many people live full and meaningful lives.Resources:Arthritis FoundationAmerican College of RheumatologyContact me on social media:FacebookTikTokInstagramJoin our Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Living Beyond the Invisible, I tackle the all-too-common phrase, "But you don’t look sick," and how it affects those living with invisible disabilities. I will explore the impact of misconceptions on personal relationships, including romantic partnerships, friendships, and family dynamics. With practical strategies, I provide guidance on how to navigate the complexities of these relationships while living with invisible disabilities.Have a question or a story to share? Reach out to us via:EmailFollow Us On Social Media:FacebookInstagramTikTokGet Exclusive Content:Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Living Beyond the Invisible, we will be discussing an important topic and that is Loneliness. Loneliness, is something that is a major battle for many who are living with invisible disabilities and chronic illnesses. It is something that I personally struggle with as well. So sit back, relax and learn how you can help.Click Here for the link to my Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this weeks episode of Living Beyond the Invisible, we will be discussing how to maintain a healthy weight and build a sustainable lifestyle while living with an invisible disability.This week's statistic was from the CDC.Join our Patreon at patreon.com/LivingBeyondtheInvisible Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Living Beyond the Invisible Podcast, we will be discussing the toll that living with invisible disabilities takes on your mental health.Link to statistics from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/features/mental-health-for-all.htmlLink to the Patreon: https://patreon.com/LivingBeyondtheInvisible Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me this week to discuss Osteoarthritis, what it is, how it affects the people living with it and a special story from a sweet listener named Lindsay.If you have a listener story or you need help, please email me at [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me this week as I share the story of my journey with breast cancer. This is the first time ever that I am publicly retelling my story and sharing my full journey.Types of chemo that I was on: Docetaxel and Cyclophosphamide these together are known as the TC regime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode, we will be diving into the world of Breast Cancer. This will be a two part topic as I wasn't able to fit everything into one episode. Don't forget to tune in next week for part two.https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org is where I got all of the statistics and information for today's episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me for episode 4 where I will do a deep dive into breast cancer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me as I dive into the world of Fibromyalgia. We'll discuss what it is, living with it and everything in between. If you or someone you know is struggling and think you may have Fibromyalgia but not sure where to turn, please reach out to me via email: [email protected] is where I got the statistics for today's episode. They have a world of information, go check them out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Living Beyond the Invisible, join us as we dive into the world of Congenital Heart Defects (CHD). We will discuss what CHD's are, how they are diagnosed, how they are treated and of course how it may affect someone's life. CHD's affect millions of people worldwide, so let's support one another and raise awareness.If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe and comment to let us know. It helps us to reach more people and possibly help more people. Thank you so much for listening!Find out more information about all CHD's at: www.childrensheartfoundation.orgFind us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok under Living Beyond the Invisible. Hope to see you there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Living Beyond the Invisible Podcast! I am so glad you're hear and I can't wait to share everything I can about invisible disabilities with you. So join me each week as we discuss life with invisible disabilities.In this weeks episode, I will give you a run down of what invisible disabilities are, what you can expect from this podcast and more. If you'd like to follow us on social media, you can find us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok under Living Beyond the Invisible.https://www.accessibility.com/disabilities/invisible-disabilities is where I found my statistics for this episode. They have a ton of great information if you'd like to check it out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Living Beyond the Invisible, the podcast dedicated to shedding light on the unseen challenges faced by those living with invisible disabilities. Together we'll explore the personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice that illuminate conditions like fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, endometriosis, and various mental health issues.In each episode, we aim to break the silence and build a supportive community where we can empower each other to live full, authentic lives despite our invisible hurdles. Whether you're living with an invisible disability or seeking to better understand and support loved ones who are, this podcast is here to provide inspiration, education, and connection.Subscribe now and join me on this incredible journey beyond the invisible. If you're on social media make sure you follow us on Facebook and Instagram @livingbeyondtheinvisible for up to date information and a behind the scenes look into the world of invisible disabilities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.