In this episode, we explore the incredible journey of Jewel Dukes, who bravely shares her experiences with Cushing’s disease, a rare and challenging condition that has impacted her life in profound ways. Jewel’s story is one of resilience, strength, and the necessity of community support in the face of chronic illness. She recounts her struggle, beginning in 2020 when she suffered unexplained strokes that led to a long and arduous health journey. Jewel describes how she initially focused on healthy eating and exercise, only to face unexpected weight gain. This frustrating experience prompted her to seek answers, ultimately leading to a life-altering diagnosis of Cushing’s disease.
The episode delves into the emotional and mental challenges associated with preparing for brain surgery, an essential strategy for treating her condition. Jewel recounts how she had to prepare not just herself but her family for the challenges ahead. Discussing the fear and uncertainty that come with such a significant medical procedure, she highlights how her mindset evolved during the process. Jewel described that while she felt terrified about undergoing brain surgery, she also focused on the potential for healing and improvement after the procedure.
Community support emerges as a central theme throughout the discussion. Jewel emphasizes the importance of sharing her journey and connecting with others who understand the nuanced challenges posed by chronic illnesses. She recounts how initially, she was hesitant to reveal her struggles to the world, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. However, by choosing to speak out, she found an abundance of love and support that became vital to her healing. Through online communities, she gained different perspectives and strategies to cope with the unpredictability of her condition.
Jewel also shares practical advice for navigating life with a rare disease. She emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research, seeking out specific support groups, and tapping into shared experiences with others. She advocates for chronic illness patients to be proactive when it comes to managing their health, encouraging them to ask questions and engage actively with their healthcare providers.
In discussing her daily management of Cushing’s disease, Jewel opens up about the importance of self-care practices. Whether utilizing techniques like meditation or maintaining a regimen for her medication needs, she highlights the strategies that have aided her in coping with the complexities of her condition. Jewel discusses the impact of physical symptoms on her activities and outlines how she learned to listen to her body, even during the days when she feels more energetic.
In addition to her health challenges, Jewel’s spirit shines through in her entrepreneurial efforts as she runs a business called Crafted with TLC. This venture not only provides her an outlet for creativity but connects her back to the chronic illness community she is proud to support. She discusses the balance of running her business while managing her health, illustrating the notion that it’s possible to find fulfillment even amidst adversity.
As the episode draws to a close, Jewel shares her excitement and plans for Rare Disease Day. Through her personal insights and experiences, she empowers listeners to seek community, be proactive in their health management, and remember that they are not alone in their journeys. Jewel’s heartfelt and engaging storytelling reminds us of the profound strength that comes from vulnerability and connection.