As human beings, we all desire a sense of belonging, and that sense of belonging is what connects us to the many relationships we develop. In this episode, Jenni Weaver shares her journey to diagnosis. She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 32 after experiencing medical gaslighting and multiple allergic reactions with one resulting in severe pustular psoriasis. Jenni also shares her experience about how chronic illness affected some of her friendships. This hardship is what drove her to find purpose and create a community that loves and supports one another called My Spoonie Sisters. We also discuss the importance of setting boundaries, self-advocacy and “protecting our spoons.” Guest Bio: My mission is to support women with rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases. When I was newly diagnosed, I felt super overwhelmed and alone. I am passionate about answering, listening, and holding hands with others through some of their darkest and scariest times. Even though I didn’t have the support I needed years ago, I feel I have the strength to be that for others now. I have created My_Spoonie_Sisters as a fun place to highlight women suffering from autoimmune diseases & disorders of all kinds, mental health, and anxiety. Guest Links: https://myspooniesisters.com/ IG: https://instagram.com/gracefully_jen?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= https://instagram.com/my_spoonie_sisters?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Podcast: My Spoonie Sisters https://www.buzzsprout.com/1959744 Host: Catina Morrison is a registered nurse, Chronic Illness Coach and Founder and CEO of Nurse Loves Essentials LLC. Her chronic illness journey and experiences with the healthcare system fueled her passion for assisting women who live with chronic illnesses. She now takes her more than 2 decades of experience in healthcare and life with multiple chronic illnesses to assist women to walk in their purpose, self-advocate, and achieve strategic growth in life, health, business and career. It is her aim to ensure that women living with chronic illnesses will learn to stop hiding and start thriving in all aspects of life. Host Links: Website - https://www.nurselovesessentials.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iam_catinamorrison/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/catinamorrison_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nurselovesessentials/ Now available on most podcast outlets and YouTube. Disclaimer: This post does contain affiliate links. This means if you decide to make a purchase, I may receive a commission that is at no extra cost. The information contained in this podcast episode and post is meant for educational and informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, or provide medical advice or treatment.