Your HEALTH Is WEALTH Podcast
Disclaimer: Your Health Is Wealth Podcast communications are not, nor are they offered as a substitute for, professional mental health care or medical care, including but not limited to psychotherapy, addiction, or therapy services, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical conditions. Your Health Is Wealth Podcast does not act in any capacity as a mental health counselor or a medical professional. All communication and services are educational in manner and must not be relied upon for one’s well-being. You understand that the Your Health Is Wealth Podcast recommends you seek the advice of a medical professional for all your medical and health-related issues; you are responsible for your well-being during and after any communication with and from Your Health Is Wealth Podcast.
Episode 6: Invisible Struggles, Visible Strength: A Dentist’s Journey Through Epilepsy, Acceptance, and Advocacy
In this episode, we will explore the remarkable journey of Dr. Amee Shah —a dedicated dentist who has faced the challenges of epilepsy with incredible resilience and grace.
Amy is a dedicated healthcare professional in Chicago. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a passionate mental health advocate and openly shares her journey living with epilepsy. Dr. Shah is a powerful voice for those who cannot speak up for themselves, working to raise awareness and foster understanding about mental health and invisible illnesses. Her dedication to advocacy and her profession make her a respected figure in both the medical and mental health communities.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, affecting about 3.4 million people in the United States. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy often remains an invisible struggle, with many individuals facing not only the physical challenges of the condition but also the mental health impacts that come with it. The stigma and misconceptions surrounding epilepsy can exacerbate feelings of isolation and anxiety, making the journey even more difficult.
Dr. Amee Shah's experience with epilepsy began at a young age. Her first seizure at just eight years old set the stage for a lifelong journey of managing her condition while pursuing her dreams. As a full-time dentist, Amee has not only had to navigate the day-to-day realities of living with epilepsy but also advocate for mental health and invisible illnesses—issues that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
In this episode, we will explore how Amee’s experiences have shaped her commitment to advocacy and her role as hope for others facing similar challenges. We’ll explore how her journey has influenced her professional life, the importance of acceptance and self-care, and how she has used her voice to raise awareness and foster understanding.
We’ll also discuss the broader impact of epilepsy on mental health in America, where societal pressures and cultural stigmas can make it difficult for individuals to seek help and support. Amee’s story is a powerful reminder that despite invisible struggles, strength and resilience can shine brightly.
You can find Dr. Shah on IG at https://www.instagram.com/behindthebindis/
References and Resources
Mula, M., Kanner, A. M., Jetté, N., & Sander, J. W. (2021). Psychiatric Comorbidities in People With Epilepsy. Neurology. Clinical practice, 11(2), e112–e120. https://doi.org/10.1212/CPJ.0000000000000874
Saxena, V. S., & Nadkarni, V. V. (2011). Nonpharmacological treatment of epilepsy. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 14(3), 148–152. https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-2327.85870
https://eliteayurveda.com/blog/epilepsy-symptoms-causes-and-ayurvedic-treatment/
Adiga, S. H., Adiga, R. S., Bhat, K. M. R., & Upadhya, D. (2024). Ayurveda therapy in the management of Epilepsy. Epilepsy & Behavior, 159, 110026. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.110026
https://www.epilepsy.com/what-is-epilepsy
Episode 5: Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: Holistic Approach to Women’s Health
Tune in to hear from Milan Chavarkar, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, CNM, IFMCP. She is joining us on the podcast and talking about her 25-year journey in nursing. It's nothing short of inspiring. From her early days as a nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner, Milan has navigated a path that eventually led her to the transformative world of integrative and functional medicine. She’s here to share how her diverse experiences have shaped her unique approach to patient care and the significant shifts she has made in her career.🔎 We'll explore what motivated Milan to embrace integrative and functional medicine in 2020, uncovering the core principles behind these practices and how they differ from traditional medicine. She will also discuss the processes involved in establishing Lotus Integrative Health and Nursing.
🎙 In our conversation, Milan will illuminate her collaborative efforts with other healthcare and holistic providers, offering insights into how these partnerships enhance patient outcomes. We’ll also delve into her approach to root-cause analysis, especially concerning conditions disproportionately affecting women.
👩⚕️ At Lotus Integrative Health and Nursing, Milan prioritizes hour-long, patient-centered consultations. We’ll discover how this model contrasts with conventional practices and the benefits it brings to patient care. She will also share how she integrates cultural practices, traditional medicine into her approach, including any connections to Ayurveda.
https://www.lotusintegrativehealth.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/milanchavarkar/
🙏 Please show your support by 👍 liking, sharing, following, and🎧 listening.
🔗 Spotify link to the channel: https://lnkd.in/dizjxWBBhashtag#yourhealthiswealthpodcast
#connect4healing #wellness #health hashtag#fertility #integrativemedicine #holistichealth #collaboration #medicine#healing #mentalhealth #ptsd #stress #trauma #fibromyalgia #chronicillness
Wallace, R. K. (2020). The Microbiome in Health and Disease from the Perspective of Modern Medicine and Ayurveda. Medicina, 56(9), 462. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina56090462
Candia-Rivera, D. (2022). Brain-heart interactions in the neurobiology of consciousness. Current Research in Neurobiology, 3, 100050. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crneur.2022.100050
Csoka, A. B., & Szyf, M. (2009). Epigenetic side-effects of common pharmaceuticals: a potential new field in medicine and pharmacology. Medical hypotheses, 73(5), 770–780. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2008.10.039
Roberts, A. L., Malspeis, S., Kubzansky, L. D., Feldman, C. H., Chang, S. C., Koenen, K. C., & Costenbader, K. H. (2017). Association of Trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder With Incident Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Longitudinal Cohort of Women. Arthritis & rheumatology (Hoboken, N.J.), 69(11), 2162–2169. https://doi.org/10.1002/art.40222
Hewlings, S., & Kalman, D. (2017). Curcumin: A review of its effects on human health. Foods, 6(10), 92. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods6100092
Episode 3: Legacy of Hope: A Son's Tribute to His Mother's Parkinson's Journey.
Welcome to Episode Three of Your Health Is Wealth Podcast, where we dive into an inspiring story of Sharon Riff Ackerman, her battle with Parkinson’s Disease, and the profound impact it leaves on the lives of family and friends. In this episode, titled "Legacy of Hope: A Son's Tribute to His Mother's Parkinson's Journey," we'll explore the heartfelt journey of one man as he navigates the challenges of being a caregiver, an advocate, and a son, all while honoring his mother's courageous battle with Parkinson's.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, causing tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. But its impact extends far beyond physical symptoms, touching every aspect of a person's life and the lives of their loved ones.
As we delve into this episode, we'll witness the resilience and strength of those living with Parkinson's and their families unwavering support and dedication. We highlight one story representing many who experience the rollercoaster of emotions, from moments of despair to glimmers of hope, as they confront the challenges of this relentless disease together.
The story follows the journey of George, a devoted son who became his mother's primary caregiver when she was diagnosed with Parkinson's. George provided care and support for his mother through his unwavering love and determination. He became a passionate advocate, tirelessly raising awareness and funds to improve the lives of those affected by Parkinson's.
As we listen to George’s story, we'll witness the impact of his advocacy efforts, both before his mother's passing and now, as he continues to honor her legacy by championing the cause. Through his tireless efforts, George has become a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families affected by Parkinson's, shining a light on their journey and inspiring others to join the fight.
References
https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/current-research/focus-disorders/parkinsons-disease-research/parkinsons-disease-challenges-progress-and-promise#:~:text=Approximately%20500%2C000%20Americans%20are%20diagnosed,1%20million%20Americans%20have%20PD
Ayurvedic Studies
Pathak-Gandhi, N., & Vaidya, A. D. (2017). Management of Parkinson's disease in Ayurveda: Medicinal plants and adjuvant measures. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 197, 46–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2016.08.020