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Living with Crohn's Disease Doesn't Stop Ian Goldstein from Finding the Humor

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Manage episode 508153094 series 3373390
Content provided by Alicia Barron and Robin Kingham, Alicia Barron, and Robin Kingham. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Alicia Barron and Robin Kingham, Alicia Barron, and Robin Kingham or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

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Comedian Ian Goldstein takes us through his journey with Crohn's disease, beginning with his diagnosis at 16 when he was just trying to navigate the already challenging world of high school, SATs, and planning for college. With candid humor, he recounts the moment he realized something was seriously wrong – not just from frequent bathroom trips, but when a coworker pointed out his dramatic weight loss.
What follows is a rollercoaster of medical experiences that many in the IBD community will recognize – from the shock of needing a colonoscopy as a teenager to the trial and error of finding effective medications. Ian vividly describes his first major bowel obstruction during his senior year of college, complete with what he calls the "modern-day torture device" known as an NG tube. Despite his best efforts to manage his condition through diet alone, he eventually required surgery in 2022 to remove seven strictures from his small intestine.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Ian shares how he's transformed his medical journey into comedy shows. From "The Autoimmune Saloon" to a celebration party for meeting his healthcare deductible (complete with custom cupcakes and hats), he's found ways to create community while addressing serious issues like medical debt. These creative outlets not only helped him process his experiences but connected him with others who could offer crucial advice about doctors and treatments.
Perhaps most valuable are Ian's insights about navigating the healthcare system with a chronic illness. He speaks honestly about the frustration of insurance denials, the anxiety of unexpected medical bills, and the challenges of having an invisible disability. His experiences highlight the importance of self-advocacy, finding the right medical team, and building a supportive community.
Ready to laugh, cry, and feel a little less alone in your IBD journey? Listen as Ian shares his practical wisdom: record your doctor appointments to remember important information, and seek out community connections that might literally change your life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or a veteran of chronic illness, this conversation reminds us all that finding humor in dark places might be our most powerful medicine.

Links:

Let's get social!!
Follow us on Instagram!
Follow us on Facebook!
Follow us on Twitter!

  continue reading

Chapters

1. Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Ian's Diagnosis Story at Age 16 (00:03:14)

3. Bowel Obstructions and Surgery Experiences (00:06:40)

4. SIBO and Dietary Challenges (00:13:50)

5. From IBD to Comedy Stage (00:23:52)

6. Medical Costs and Healthcare Frustrations (00:31:45)

7. Finding Hope and Community Connections (00:38:55)

8. Advice for the IBD Community (00:43:20)

145 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 508153094 series 3373390
Content provided by Alicia Barron and Robin Kingham, Alicia Barron, and Robin Kingham. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Alicia Barron and Robin Kingham, Alicia Barron, and Robin Kingham or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Send us a text

Comedian Ian Goldstein takes us through his journey with Crohn's disease, beginning with his diagnosis at 16 when he was just trying to navigate the already challenging world of high school, SATs, and planning for college. With candid humor, he recounts the moment he realized something was seriously wrong – not just from frequent bathroom trips, but when a coworker pointed out his dramatic weight loss.
What follows is a rollercoaster of medical experiences that many in the IBD community will recognize – from the shock of needing a colonoscopy as a teenager to the trial and error of finding effective medications. Ian vividly describes his first major bowel obstruction during his senior year of college, complete with what he calls the "modern-day torture device" known as an NG tube. Despite his best efforts to manage his condition through diet alone, he eventually required surgery in 2022 to remove seven strictures from his small intestine.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Ian shares how he's transformed his medical journey into comedy shows. From "The Autoimmune Saloon" to a celebration party for meeting his healthcare deductible (complete with custom cupcakes and hats), he's found ways to create community while addressing serious issues like medical debt. These creative outlets not only helped him process his experiences but connected him with others who could offer crucial advice about doctors and treatments.
Perhaps most valuable are Ian's insights about navigating the healthcare system with a chronic illness. He speaks honestly about the frustration of insurance denials, the anxiety of unexpected medical bills, and the challenges of having an invisible disability. His experiences highlight the importance of self-advocacy, finding the right medical team, and building a supportive community.
Ready to laugh, cry, and feel a little less alone in your IBD journey? Listen as Ian shares his practical wisdom: record your doctor appointments to remember important information, and seek out community connections that might literally change your life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or a veteran of chronic illness, this conversation reminds us all that finding humor in dark places might be our most powerful medicine.

Links:

Let's get social!!
Follow us on Instagram!
Follow us on Facebook!
Follow us on Twitter!

  continue reading

Chapters

1. Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Ian's Diagnosis Story at Age 16 (00:03:14)

3. Bowel Obstructions and Surgery Experiences (00:06:40)

4. SIBO and Dietary Challenges (00:13:50)

5. From IBD to Comedy Stage (00:23:52)

6. Medical Costs and Healthcare Frustrations (00:31:45)

7. Finding Hope and Community Connections (00:38:55)

8. Advice for the IBD Community (00:43:20)

145 episodes

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