Moving Forward with Arthritis

Sharon Caddy speaks with Trish Barbato, President and CEO of The Arthritis Society about this bold national plan to end Arthritis.Arthritis is Canada’s silent epidemic. More than 6 million people in Canada live with arthritis today, that’s more people than diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and dementia combined. Yet arthritis remains dangerously misunderstood, chronically underfunded, and systematically ignored.The reality is stark:1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men have arthritis25,000 children and youth currently seek healthcare for arthritis$45.9 billion annual drain on Canada’s economy#1 cause of disability, forcing millions from work and community life9 million Canadians will have arthritis by 2045 without immediate actionArthritis is a health issue that can no longer be ignored.Canada is failing arthritis patients, and the evidence is undeniable. For the second time in three years, The State of Arthritis in Canada Report Card has assigned low and failing grades to every single province and territory.In response to this crisis, Arthritis Society Canada is leading the launch of Arthritis Action Now: The Plan to End Arthritis in Canada.UNPRECEDENTED UNITY FOR CHANGEArthritis Action Now is Canada’s first actionable, coordinated strategy to transform prevention, care, and research for arthritis.It was co-created by 21 ecosystem champions organizations representing patients, clinicians, researchers, health system leaders, and advocates. Together, we engaged more than 100,000 Canadians in the largest consultation ever conducted on arthritis in Canada.This is a mobilization blueprint designed for immediate implementation across three strategic pillars.THE PLANArthritis Action Now has three interconnected pathways—policy priorities, research and innovation, and catalysts for change—to drive transformative change for the six million people in Canada with arthritis.Link to the Arthritis Action Now document:  Arthritis Action Now - Arthritis Society CanadaSEO KEYWORDS:Arthritis Action Now; Arthritis Action Now Canada; Arthritis Society Canada; Trish Barbato;  arthritis in Canada; arthritis podcast Canada; arthritis awareness Canada; arthritis advocacy Canada

Sharon Caddy speaks with Sadiq Jiwa about pursuing big dreams while living with arthritis.Many people assume that an arthritis diagnosis means giving up athletic goals or physical ambitions. Sadiq’s story proves that isn’t always the case. Diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis at just six years old, he grew up navigating pain and physical limitations while continuing to pursue his passion for sports.Today, Sadiq is a professional golfer who has competed internationally and on the PGA Tour Canada. He has over 15 years of competitive experience at the junior, amateur, and professional levels. Alongside his athletic journey, he is also a member of the Patient Advisory Board at Arthritis Research Canada, where he helps represent the voices and experiences of people living with arthritis.In this episode, Sadiq shares what it was like growing up with juvenile arthritis, how he pushed through challenges to stay active in sports, and why advocacy and representation for young people with arthritis are so important.This inspiring conversation highlights resilience, determination, and the powerful message that arthritis doesn’t have to define or limit your dreams.Website: www.jiwagolfperformance.cajuvenile idiopathic arthritis athlete, athletes with arthritis, juvenile arthritis advocacy, arthritis and sports, living with arthritis young people, arthritis resilience stories, Sadiq Jiwa golfer, Arthritis Research Canada patient advisory board, Sharon Caddy, Moving Forward with Arthritis.

Healthy eating is important for everyone, but for people with arthritis, the right foods can make a huge difference. In this episode of Moving Forward with Arthritis, Sharon Caddy speaks with Kim Arrey about how nutrition can play a powerful role in managing arthritis.Kim is a registered Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist and nutrition coach based in Montreal who specializes in helping people manage arthritis through sustainable, practical nutrition. Living with arthritis herself, she understands the daily challenges firsthand and focuses on realistic strategies that support mobility, reduce inflammation, and improve overall quality of life.In this episode, Sharon and Kim discuss anti-inflammatory eating, how diet can influence inflammation in the body, and simple nutrition habits that can support joint health. Kim also shares practical tips for building an arthritis-friendly diet that is both nourishing and enjoyable.Kim is also the author of The Complete Arthritis Health Diet Guide and Cookbook, where she combines evidence-based nutrition advice with delicious recipes designed to support people living with arthritis.Whether you're curious about anti-inflammatory foods or looking for practical ways to support your health through nutrition, this episode offers helpful guidance you can start using right away.Website: www.kimarreynutrition.comarthritis diet, anti-inflammatory diet for arthritis, nutrition for arthritis pain, foods that reduce inflammation, arthritis nutrition tips, arthritis cookbook, Kim Arrey dietitian, arthritis lifestyle strategies, Sharon Caddy, Moving Forward with Arthritis

Sharon Caddy welcomes back Margaret Wallis-Duffy to explore the many assistive devices that can help people living with arthritis maintain independence, mobility, and comfort.Margaret is an award-winning Registered Massage Therapist with more than 30 years of experience in integrative wellness and the founder of the Preventative Health Awareness Movement (PHAM). In this episode, she shares practical insights into the wide range of tools designed to make everyday tasks easier for people dealing with joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.From simple kitchen aids and jar openers to mobility supports and ergonomic tools, Sharon and Margaret discuss how these devices can help reduce strain on the joints and make daily life more manageable. They also talk about the importance of removing the stigma around using assistive devices and embracing solutions that support independence and quality of life.If you’re living with arthritis—or caring for someone who is—this episode highlights practical tools that can make a meaningful difference.Website: www.wallisforwellness.comKeywords: arthritis assistive devices, assistive devices for arthritis, tools for arthritis hands, arthritis daily living aids, living independently with arthritis, arthritis podcast Canada, living with arthritis podcast, arthritis tips and tools podcast, managing arthritis daily life podcast, arthritis support and advice

In this inspiring episode of Moving Forward with Arthritis Sharon Caddy speaks with Zac Spinosa about resilience, movement, and the role fitness can play in overcoming major health challenges.At just 16 years old, Zac faced a life-changing diagnosis that nearly stopped him in his tracks. With the support of his family and the healing power of movement, he discovered a new understanding of strength—one built not just on physical ability, but on perseverance and community.That journey led Zac to create Forge Fitness in 2018, a community gym focused on transformation, support, and inclusive training for people of all fitness levels and physical challenges.In this episode, Zac shares how movement can help people rebuild confidence, improve mobility, and develop resilience—especially for those living with chronic conditions or recovering from serious health setbacks. Sharon and Zac also talk about how supportive fitness communities can make a powerful difference in people’s lives.This inspiring conversation highlights how strength is built not only in the body, but through community, determination, and the courage to keep moving forward.Website:  www.forgefitness.comSEO Keywords:exercise for arthritis, movement and chronic illness, fitness and resilience, arthritis mobility exercise, building strength with chronic illness, community fitness support, Zac Spinosa, Forge Fitness Fenwick, Sharon Caddy, Moving Forward with Arthritis.

In Episode 7 of Moving Forward with Arthritis, Sharon Caddy sits down with Dr. Liza Egbogah to talk about something many people with arthritis struggle with—foot health.Known widely as “Dr. Liza,” she is a Toronto-based chiropractor, manual osteopath, and body posture expert. She is also the founder of The Fix Healthcare and creator of the Dr. Liza Shoes line of fashionable orthopaedic footwear.In this episode, Dr. Liza shares why proper footwear and foot support are so important for people living with arthritis and other mobility challenges. She explains how posture, alignment, and the right shoes can impact everything from joint pain to overall movement and comfort.Sharon and Dr. Liza also discuss the balance between style and support—proving that healthy footwear doesn’t have to sacrifice fashion. Along the way, Dr. Liza shares practical tips for choosing shoes that support your feet, your posture, and your long-term joint health.Whether you’re dealing with arthritis in your feet, plantar fasciitis, or simply want to make smarter footwear choices, this episode is packed with helpful advice.Website: www.drlizashoes.com

In Episode 9 of Moving Forward with Arthritis, SharonCaddy speaks with Natasha Trehan about her journey living with JuvenileIdiopathic Arthritis and her work supporting young people with rheumaticdiseases.Natasha was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis atjust 13 years old. During her early years navigating the condition, she oftenfelt isolated and struggled to find others who shared similar experiences. Thatchanged after joining a support group and connecting with other youth livingwith arthritis.In March 2021, Natasha launched the Take a Pain Checkpodcast to create a space where young patients could hear stories, shareexperiences, and feel less alone. Soon after, she founded the Take a Pain CheckFoundation to further support youth and young adults through advocacy,community initiatives, and awareness efforts.Natasha also shares her academic journey, having completedher undergraduate degree in Translational and Molecular Medicine at theUniversity of Ottawa in 2025.This episode highlights the power of community, advocacy,and peer support—showing how one young patient turned her experience into amovement that helps others feel understood and empowered. Website:  www.takeapaincheck.comSEO Keywords:juvenile idiopathic arthritis, youth with arthritis, juvenile arthritissupport, arthritis advocacy youth, living with juvenile arthritis, arthritiscommunity support, Take a Pain Check podcast, Natasha Trehan, Sharon Caddy,Moving Forward with Arthritis.

In Episode 6 of Moving Forward with Arthritis, Sharon Caddy speaks with Lynda Fraser about the importance of prioritizing mental health when living with a chronic condition.Lynda Fraser, MSc (Psych.), BA (Sociology), is a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy practitioner and personal development coach who helps individuals develop practical tools to navigate stress, emotional challenges, and life transitions. In this conversation, she shares insights into how chronic conditions like arthritis can affect mental health, including the impact of persistent pain, fatigue, and lifestyle changes.Sharon and Lynda discuss how chronic illness can influence mood, self-image, relationships, and daily motivation—and why acknowledging these challenges is an important step toward resilience and well-being. Lynda also offers practical strategies rooted in cognitive behavioural approaches that can help people better manage stress, maintain perspective, and support their emotional health.This thoughtful conversation highlights why caring for your mental health is just as important as managing the physical symptoms of arthritis.Website: www.lyndalayne.ca

In Episode 5 of Moving Forward with Arthritis, Sharon Caddy speaks with Margaret Wallis-Duffy about the role complementary therapies can play in managing arthritis and supporting overall wellness.Margaret is an award-winning Registered Massage Therapist with more than 30 years of experience running an integrative wellness clinic in Brampton, Ontario. She is also one of Canada’s leading wellness influencers, a dedicated mentor within the RMT profession, and the founder of Preventative Health Awareness Movement (PHAM), which encourages Canadians to become the CEO of their own health.In this episode, Margaret shares how complementary approaches—such as massage therapy and other integrative treatments—can support pain management, mobility, and overall well-being for people living with arthritis. She also talks about the importance of preventative health, listening to your body, and building a proactive approach to long-term wellness.Whether you’re exploring additional ways to manage arthritis pain or looking for inspiration to take a more active role in your health journey, this conversation offers practical insights and empowering ideas.Website: www.wallisforwellness.com

In Episode 4 of Moving Forward with Arthritis, Sharon Caddy welcomes Alli Mang, Canada’s ambassador for Global Wellness Day.Celebrated in more than 170 countries around the world, Global Wellness Day is coming to Canada for the very first time. Taking place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, this entirely not-for-profit global initiative encourages people to pause, reflect, and take meaningful steps toward living healthier, more balanced lives.Alli Mang—speaker, best-selling author, and performance strategist—joins Sharon to talk about the mission behind Global Wellness Day and why bringing this international wellness movement to Canada matters. They discuss simple ways people can participate, the importance of prioritizing health and well-being, and how wellness practices can support people living with chronic conditions like arthritis.Whether you’re looking for inspiration to improve your health, explore new wellness habits, or take part in a global movement focused on living well, this episode highlights how one day can spark lasting change.Websites:  www.allimang.com; www.globalwellness.org Link toGlobal Wellness Day promo from 2025 (potential Broll):  GWD 2025 Around theWorld Celebrations

In Episode 3 of Moving Forward with Arthritis, Sharon Caddy welcomes Dr. Mary DeVera to discuss an important topic for many people living with arthritis: pregnancy and the early years of parenting.Dr. DeVera holds a Canada Research Chair in Medication Adherence, Utilization and Outcomes. She is an Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and a Research Scientist at Arthritis Research Canada. Her work focuses on what she calls “Medication Matters,” studying how arthritis medications are used during pregnancy and how they affect both mothers and babies.In this episode, Dr. DeVera shares research-backed insights about managing arthritis during pregnancy, common concerns around medications, and how patients and doctors can work together to make safe, informed decisions. Sharon and Dr. DeVera also talk about the realities of the early days of parenting while managing arthritis, including fatigue, physical challenges, and strategies for maintaining health and mobility.This conversation offers valuable information for anyone with arthritis who is planning a pregnancy, currently expecting, or navigating the early stages of parenthood.Website: www.arthritisresearch.ca

Sharon Caddy is joined by Dr. Paul Zalzal, an orthopedic surgeon and member of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Zalzal is also widely known as co-host of the popular health podcast and YouTube channel Talking with Docs alongside Dr. Brad Weening.In this episode, Dr. Zalzal joins Sharon to break down the facts about joint replacement surgery. They discuss when joint replacement becomes the right option, what patients should expect before and after surgery, and how modern surgical techniques are helping people return to active, pain-reduced lives.Dr. Zalzal also shares practical insights about preparing for surgery, recovery timelines, and common misconceptions about joint replacements. Whether you're considering a hip or knee replacement, supporting a loved one through surgery, or simply curious about how these procedures work, this episode provides clear, expert guidance.Website: www.talkingwithdocs.com

Moving Forward with Arthritis is a health and lifestyle podcast focused on helping people understand and manage life with arthritis. Host Sharon Caddy shares her personal journey from an active life in fitness and athletics to being diagnosed with osteoarthritis in her early forties. Her experience with joint pain, hip replacements, foot surgeries, and long-term recovery shaped the mission of the show.Each episode introduces conversations with medical professionals and health experts who explain the science behind arthritis and provide practical guidance for daily living. Topics include arthritis pain management, joint replacement surgery, physiotherapy, nutrition, exercise, footwear, sleep, and complementary treatments that support long-term health.The podcast also addresses the emotional and mental health side of arthritis. Many forms of arthritis are considered invisible conditions, meaning others cannot see the physical challenges someone is experiencing. Episodes explore how mindset, education, and community support can help people adapt and maintain an active life.Listeners will also hear from people who live with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of joint disease. Through shared stories and expert insight, the podcast aims to provide clear information, reduce fear around treatment options, and help people make informed decisions about their health.Moving Forward with Arthritis is designed for anyone newly diagnosed with arthritis, people living with chronic joint pain, caregivers supporting loved ones, or anyone looking for practical ways to maintain mobility and independence.Follow the Podcast on:FacebookYouTubeInstagram

Moving Forward with Arthritis is a health and lifestyle podcast focused on helping people understand and manage life with arthritis. Host Sharon Caddy shares her personal journey from an active life in fitness and athletics to being diagnosed with osteoarthritis in her early forties. Her experience with joint pain, hip replacements, foot surgeries, and long-term recovery shaped the mission of the show.Each episode introduces conversations with medical professionals and health experts who explain the science behind arthritis and provide practical guidance for daily living. Topics include arthritis pain management, joint replacement surgery, physiotherapy, nutrition, exercise, footwear, sleep, and complementary treatments that support long-term health.The podcast also addresses the emotional and mental health side of arthritis. Many forms of arthritis are considered invisible conditions, meaning others cannot see the physical challenges someone is experiencing. Episodes explore how mindset, education, and community support can help people adapt and maintain an active life.Listeners will also hear from people who live with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of joint disease. Through shared stories and expert insight, the podcast aims to provide clear information, reduce fear around treatment options, and help people make informed decisions about their health.Moving Forward with Arthritis is designed for anyone newly diagnosed with arthritis, people living with chronic joint pain, caregivers supporting loved ones, or anyone looking for practical ways to maintain mobility and independence.