Have you ever been told that celery juice could cure your autoimmune disease? Or perhaps someone suggested that your joints aren't actually inflamed—they're just dehydrated? Welcome to the world of unsolicited health advice that every person with a chronic illness knows all too well.
In this candid and often hilarious conversation, four women (Alison, Jen, Jewel, Linnea) with various chronic conditions share the weirdest, wildest, and most bewildering "cures" they've been offered by well-meaning friends, family members, and strangers. From the childhood friend who messaged after 20 years to suggest "eating right and exercising" would solve everything, to the truly outlandish experience of being led to a stranger's basement, given an apple, and anointed with oil to "pray away" rheumatoid arthritis—these stories will have you nodding in recognition or picking your jaw up off the floor.
Why do people feel compelled to offer solutions rather than support? How does "medicine shaming" affect those who need medication to function? The conversation delves into how chronic illness becomes a masterclass in setting boundaries, educating others, and sometimes finding the humor in absurd situations.
Experiences are validated, medical gaslighting is acknowledged, and fellow "spoonies" understand that wellness often requires multiple approaches working together, not miracle cures or quick fixes. Whether you live with chronic illness or love someone who does, this episode offers insight, comfort, and permission to respond to the next person who suggests dancing under the full moon with a smile, a boundary, or perhaps a witty comeback.

• Jen: https://www.instagram.com/gracefully_jen?igsh=MW9iMTl0ZXMwZ2dleg==
• Linnea: https://www.instagram.com/perfectlyimperfectlinnea?igsh=bGFyZzJqcGc0eG5m
• Alison: https://www.instagram.com/alisons1616?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
• Jewel: https://www.instagram.com/thelipedemacushie?utm_source=ig_web_button

Send us a text

Delivering Happy Mail around the world!

We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.

Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.

About our organization | Cards2warriors

Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice

Keep your spoons close and support system closer.

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website: https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes: GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off