Shows
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura Nozicka36 procedures, 26 doctors and a 30-year search to solve a medical mystery with NYC writer and producer, Nika C. BeamonIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes Nika Beamon, an accomplished writer and producer in New York City. Nika shares her inspirational story of navigating nearly three decades of misdiagnosed symptoms and her relentless pursuit of a diagnosis. From experiencing spontaneous fevers and joint pain in her college years to being diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease, IgG4-related disease, Nika discusses her journey, the impact on her life, and how she turned her struggles into a message of advocacy. The conversation also delves into her advocacy work, her achievements in journalism...
2025-07-071h 10The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaWhat Happens After the Diagnosis? Inside the AYA Cancer Experience with Ambreen Maan, MSW, LSWIn this episode, I interview Ambreen Maan, a dedicated cancer advocate and licensed social worker. Ambreen shares her harrowing yet inspiring journey from being a young cancer patient, initially misdiagnosed with potential malaria, to becoming a champion for the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer community. She discusses the uniquechallenges faced by AYA cancer patients, the importance of self-advocacy, and the critical need for support tailored to the AYA demographic. Ambreen also delves into her experiences with healthcare disparities and how they influenced her shift from aspiring to be a doctor to focusing on social work and advocacy. Through...
2025-06-111h 16
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaPelvic Floor Physical Therapy: What Your Doctor Didn’t Tell You (But Should Have) with Alina Gur, DPT, PT, RYTJoin host Laura Nozicka on the 'Desperate for a Diagnosis' podcast as she talks with Alina Gur, an experienced pelvic floor physical therapist, in honor of Pelvic Health Awareness Month. They discuss the importance of pelvic floor health and break down misconceptions about pelvic floor therapy. Medical gaslighting or feeling dismissed can also be a common experience for women with chronic pelvic pain, especially when standard imaging and lab work fail to reveal a clear cause, leaving physicians with limited tools like medications or hormones. The truth is, pelvic pain is often multifactorial—arising from complex, overlapping is...
2025-05-291h 14The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaWhat Doctors Don’t See Could Hurt You: Reclaiming Your Story in the Healthcare SystemIn this powerful episode of Desperate for a Diagnosis, host Laura Nozicka is joined by Irene Woerner and Paul Evans for a deeply insightful conversation about one of the most overlooked threats to patient care: fragmented, incomplete, and inaccessible medical data.What happens when your doctor doesn’t have the full picture? The consequences can be devastating—misdiagnoses, adverse drug interactions, delayed treatments, and even medical errors that could’ve been prevented with the right information at the right time.Irene, a former NASA software innovator, and Paul, a longtime healthcare researcher, bring both technical expert...
2025-05-141h 12
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaSex, Drugs and a Side of Therapy: A Legal Perspective on Mental Health Malpractice with Scott HammerIn this compelling episode of The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes attorney Scott Hammer, a legal expert who has represented mental health professionals for over 40 years. Known for his sharp insight and extensive experience, having handled more than 2,000 cases, Scott shares an unfiltered look into the legal challenges that psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and therapists face today.Hear Scott detail the most common reasons mental health providers get sued, including suicide-related cases, medication errors, breaches of confidentiality, and boundary violations. He pulls back the curtain on some of the most...
2025-05-031h 32
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaThe Real Deal: Why REAL Patient Voices Matter in Market Research More Than Ever in a World of AI with Pam Cusick, Rare Patient VoiceIn this thought-provoking episode of Desperate for a Diagnosis, host Laura Nozicka welcomes back Pam Cusick, a seasoned research professional and Senior Vice President of Rare Patient Voice. As one of Laura’s first-ever podcast guests, Pam returns to reflect on the evolution of patient-centered research and the growing importance of real human connection in a world increasingly shaped by AI and automation.Together, they explore the emotional, logistical, and ethical nuances of recruiting patients and caregivers for market research and clinical trials. Pam shares how Rare Patient Voice is building meaningful bridges between patients and research op...
2025-03-251h 06
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaHow a Brain Cancer Diagnosis Launched a Movement – with Matthew ZacharyIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes Matthew Zachary, a 28-year brain cancer survivor, trailblazing patient advocate, and founder of Stupid Cancer. Dubbed “The People’s Voice in Healthcare” by People Magazine, Matthew shares his powerful journey from a misdiagnosed young adult to a leading force in patient advocacy.During their conversation, Matthew recounts the frustrating and isolating experience of being dismissed by medical professionals before finally receiving a brain cancer diagnosis. He opens up about rejecting chemotherapy against medical advice—thanks to a pivotal conversation with his Uncle Jay—and reflec...
2025-02-2657 min
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaSinglehood and Sickness: Breaking Stereotypes of the Unmarried with Joan DelFattoreIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, guest Joan DelFattore, Professor Emerita at the University of Delaware and a noted author on healthcare equity for single patients discusses the challenges faced by single individuals in the healthcare system, including biases from medicalprofessionals that can lead to different treatment options based on maritalstatus. Professor DelFattore shares her personal story of battling stage 4 gallbladder cancer and how physician bias nearly affected her treatment. Our discussion also exploreshow implicit biases in the medical field impact single patients and what steps can be taken to advocate for better...
2025-01-071h 12
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaCrush Your Health Goals in the New Year: Tips from a 176-Pound TransformationLaura Nozicka welcomes Jared Gleaton, a school psychologist, author, and food critic. Just three days before Thanksgiving, Jared shares his inspiring story of losing 176 pounds without trendy diets or drugs, highlighting the psychological and emotional facets of eating. The episode delves into Jared's unique expertise in food psychology, the mental well-being tied to food choices, and how he used mindful eating after a personal tragedy to transform his life. Listeners are introduced to Jared's journey from his childhood and struggles with weight to his critical approach to food as explored in his book, 'A Feast for the Senses: The...
2024-12-031h 16
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaDecoding ASXL Mutations: Hope and Advocacy in Rare Diseases with Mom and Rare Disease Advocate, Laura BadmaevIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast, host Laura Nozicka interviews Laura Badmaev, a dedicated mother and advocate for children with ultra-rare genetic disorders. Laura Badmaev, founder and chair of the ASXL Rare Research Endowment Foundation, shares her journey and experiences with her son, Alex, who has Bohring-Opitz Syndrome, a rare genetic mutation. They discuss thecomplexities of diagnosing and managing this condition, the importance of genetic testing, and the crucial role of research and community support. Laura also highlights the foundation’s efforts to support families and advanceresearch for ASXL disorders. The episode sheds light on th...
2024-11-1943 min
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaHow Dr. Randy Cybulski Decodes Pain to Heal, Not Just MaskDr. Randy Cybulski, sports chiropractor and longtime physician to athletes of all ages, discusses hisunique approach to chiropractic care, and overcoming chronic pain, and pain due to injury. He also provides insight into treating conditions, the importance of questioning medical authority, and the role ofPRP and stem cell therapy in healing.Dr. Randy also discusses the often-overlooked aspects of injury treatment including inflammation, scar tissue production, and muscle compensation. He sheds lighton how the body handles injury and physical stress, and highlights the unique methods he uses to treat injuries that incorporate this understanding. He has built...
2024-11-051h 25
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaOne Physician's Perspective on Medical Gaslighting with Renowned Neurologist and Headache Specialist, Dr. Alan RapoportIn this episode of Desperate for a Diagnosis, Dr. Alan Rapoport returns to delve into the concept of medical gaslighting, where patients feel dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare providers. The discussion addresses the evolving complexities of modern medical practice, highlighting constraints faced by doctors, and the importance of patient history for diagnostic accuracy. The episode explores patient-doctor communication, persistence in seeking diagnoses, and the impact of systemic healthcare issues on patient care. Through personal anecdotes and case studies, the conversation underscores the necessity for thorough evaluations, self-advocacy, and collaboration with healthcare professionals. 00:54 Meet Dr. Alan...
2024-10-221h 15
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaRare Pediatric Neurological Conditions: Alice in Wonderland Syndrome and More with Neurologist, Dr. Lauren StraussIn this compelling episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes Dr. Lauren Strauss, a renowned pediatric and adult headache neurologist, to explore the complexities and advancements in pediatric neurology. The conversation dives deep into diagnosing rare neurological conditions in children, including Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Alice in Wonderland Syndrome. Dr. Strauss shares her detective-like approach to diagnosis, new treatment options, and the critical genetic components of conditions like migraines and alternating hemiplegia of childhood. The episode also addresses the potential link between infantile colic and migraines, emphasizing the...
2024-10-1752 min
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaRethinking "Difficult" Patients with Emergency Physician and Author, Dr. Joan NaidorfIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast, I have a heart-to-heart discussion with Dr. Joan Naidorf, an emergency physician, author, and speaker based in Alexandria, Virginia. We delve into the complex and oftenmisunderstood dynamics between patients and physicians, especially when it comes to diagnosing difficult cases. Dr. Naidorf shares her extensiveexperience, offering a unique perspective on how patient interactions can impact both sides of the healthcare system. Topics include medical gaslighting, and how healthcare professionals can improve their approach to how they view patients as well as mitigate biases. Dr. Naidorf talks about her book, “Changing Ho...
2024-10-091h 04
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaExpert Perspectives on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Migraines with Renowned Neurologist, Dr. Alan RapoportIn this episode, join me for an extremely educational conversation with renowned neurologist and headache specialist, Dr. Alan Rapoport, a clinical professor of neurology at UCLA. Dr. Rapoport educates listeners about various headache disorders, including migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches. Dr. Rapoport discusses the complexities, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for these conditions, highlighting emerging technologies. The discussion also covers Bontriage, a platform co-founded by Dr. Rapoport, which leverages AI for headache diagnosis and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Rapoport walks us through an extremely helpful headache assessment available on his website for patients to chronicle their headache histories...
2024-09-301h 32
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaBattling the Pain – Judy’s Journey Through Shingles and Postherpetic NeuralgiaIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes communications professional Judy, who shares her harrowing journey through misdiagnosis. Judy recounts her development of shingles, initially mistaken for cluster headaches, which eventually led to a painful condition known as postherpetic neuralgia. The discussion covers her myriad symptoms, including blisters, severe pain, and itching, as well as her experiences with various treatments and support groups. Judy's advocacy for the shingles vaccine is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of vaccination to prevent such debilitating conditions. 00:00 Introduction: The Struggle for a Diagnosis01:13 Meet Judy...
2024-09-0950 min
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaUnderstanding and Managing Migraines with Neurologist and Certified Headache Specialist, Dr. Lee PeterlinIn this episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast, host Laura Nozicka engages in a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Lee Peterlin, a distinguished clinical neuroscientist and headache specialist. Dr. Peterlin delves deep into the complexities of migraines, addressing common questions about their causes, symptoms, and distinctions from other types of headaches. Dr. Peterlin explains the importance of identifying primary versus secondary headaches, the lack of biomarkers, and the genetic component of migraines. We also discuss various triggers, the phases of migraines, and both pharmacological and non-drug treatment options. The episode concludes with Dr. Peterlin providing guidance...
2024-08-131h 03
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaSaying “Yes, And” to Using Improv in Healthcare Communications and Leadership: Insights from Kelly Leonard, The Second CityIn this episode of Desperate for a DiagnosisPodcast, Kelly Leonard, Vice President of Creative Strategy at Second City and I discuss the exciting intersection of improvisation and healthcare. Who knew? We know there's very little funny about healthcare...well, that all depends how you look at it. But improvisational techniques and methodologies are surprisingly applicable to healthcare communications. Kelly highlights the crucial role that communication, empathy, and adaptability play in medicalsettings and in patient/physician/healthcare provider interactions. Kelly emphasizes "yes, and," as a foundational principle of improvisation and it's the name of his best-selleing book. By...
2024-07-301h 14
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaMenopause Management: Dr. Z Colette Edwards' Playbook for the Common and the More Surprising Symptoms During This Season of LifeIn this compelling episode of the Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, host Laura Nozicka warmly welcomes back Dr. Z. Collette Edwards. Dr. Edwards, a renowned board-certified physician with extensive training in health and wellness coaching, health equity, and integrative health, shares her profound insights into the multifaceted menopause journey.The conversation navigates through Dr. Edwards’ impressive background, including her roles as Associate Medical Director, national medical lead for health disparities, and corporate medical executive. Laura and Dr. Edwards delve deeply into the complexities of menopause, a natural life transition often misunderstood and under-recognized in medical and professional settings.Check ou...
2024-07-201h 31
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaGen Z Sheds Light on the Healthcare System While Managing Chronic IllnessIn this special episode of thThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes back Emma Smith and Olivia Goodreau. These inspiring GenZ young women share their ongoing journeys with long COVID and Lyme disease, discussing the healthcare challenges they have faced and the resilience they’ve shown. They highlight the importance of empathy, consistent care, and self-advocacy in the medical system. Olivia introduces her new app, Long Haul Tracker, designed to help chronic illness patients track their symptoms, while Emma shares her progress and her new job focused on health equity. Together, they call for mo...
2024-06-201h 14
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaGEN Z, Emma Smith Shares Her Battle with Long COVID and How the Healthcare System Can Do BetterIn this episode of The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, host Laura Nozicka sits down with Gen Z, Emma Smith, a 25-year-old freelance journalist, to discuss her ongoing journey with long COVID. Emma shares her experiences battling chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, and various other symptoms, and navigating through the healthcare system, encountering numerous doctors, and facing significant personal challenges. She touches on the initial misdiagnoses, the lack of empathy from some healthcare professionals, and the support system that has kept her going. Additionally, Emma talks about her passion for climbing, writing, and her plans to establish a support group...
2024-05-301h 17
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaThe Power of Support in 11-year old Mark's Medical Miracle and Bone Marrow Transplant JourneyIn this episode, host Laura Nozicka welcomes back Matt Ciciretti, Mark's SuperDad, for a compelling update on Mark's health journey following an idiopathic bone marrow failure diagnosis. In previous episodes, Matt discussed Mark's diagnosis and subsequent discovery that a bone marrow transplant was the only solution. This episode covers a successful match with a donor, the process of the bone marrow transplant, and Mark's recovery. The discussion highlights the overwhelming support from the community, the challenges and scares faced during recovery, and the family's gratitude towards the medical team and everyone who offered support. Additionally...
2024-05-101h 09
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaUnveiling Resilience: A Triumph Over Triple-Negative Breast Cancer with Severine TararyeGuest, Severine Tarayre recounts her courageous battle against triple-negative breast cancer, a very aggressive cancer type. The episode explores her challenging quest for an accurate diagnosis and the intense emotional struggles she endured. Listeners witness the profound impact of the illness on Severine's personal and professional life, highlighting the unwavering support she received from loved ones including her husband, two children and work colleagues. Throughout the podcast, Severine discusses tough treatment decisions, copes with the uncertainties of her condition, and finds hope and inspiration in her fight against cancer all while armed with research and information. Check out this...
2024-04-121h 05
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaUnveiling the Human Side of Physicians from a Neurosurgeon's Perspective with Dr. Gary SimondsDr. Gary Simonds, retired neurosurgeon turned professor at Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and the Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience as well as author of "Death's Pale Flag," a suspense medical thriller, graciously returns to share his wisdom and experiences, adding a personal touch to this "get real" episode.Host Laura Nozicka and Gary explore the vulnerabilities and humanity of doctors, breaking stereotypes and offering a glimpse into the personal struggles and triumphs of healthcare professionals with topics such as burnout, retirement and their own mortality.Gary also opens up about his own "desperate...
2024-04-041h 14The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaNavigating Your Healthcare Journey with Charlene Rothkopf, MA and Z. Colette Edwards, MD MBAJoin host Laura Nozicka for a "lady boss" conversation with the two passionate and compassionate authors of "Navigating Your Healthcare Journey: Lessons Learned to Get the Care You Need and Deserve." Charlene Rothkopf, MA and Z. Colette Edwards, MD MBA offer unique perspectives on the healthcare system from both sides of the bedside. Drawing upon their personal experiences and expertise, Charlene and Dr. Edwards discuss their collaborative book, highlighting patient advocacy, the pitfalls of medical communications, and the importance of integrated healthcare models. Charlene shares her experience with the healthcare system and patient communications while being treated...
2023-12-211h 25The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaNow I'm the Podcast Guest...The Story of My "Why?" and How I Got Started as a PodcasterMichael Carlon my friend and host of the Uncorking a Story Podcast interviewed me to learn more about the "why?" behind becoming a podcaster. Learn more about what inspired me to start my podcast during this spirited conversation between me and Mike. You can listen to Mike's podcast wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@UncorkingastoryConnect with LauraEmail: lauramarie@desperateforadiagnosis.comWebsite: www.desperateforadiagnosis.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@desperateforadiagnosisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DesperateForADiagnosisPodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-desperate-for-a-diagnosis-podcast/
2023-12-0841 min
Conversations in Depth: A QRCA Views PodcastSo, You want to Start a Podcast, with Laura NozickaLaura Nozicka is a moderator from Chicago and has a long career in healthcare, which drives her passion to elevate the healthcare experience. Out of Laura's own experience of spinning through the healthcare "revolving door," desperately trying to find a diagnosis for symptoms that made no sense to most doctors or were simply dismissed, she created the "Desperate For a Diagnosis" podcast. Key Themes Why Laura started the Desperate for a Diagnosis podcast (It wasn’t just to promote her business). Lessons Laura learned the hard way after deciding to launch a he...
2023-12-0641 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaThe Girlfriend's Guide to Lupus with Author Amanda ChayIn this insightful episode, host Laura Nozicka talks with author Amanda Chay for a deep dive into her personal experiences and challenges with chronic illness, particularly lupus. Get a comprehensive look at Amanda's journey, from the support systems she cherishes to the professional medical relationships she deems crucial for managing her condition. The conversation also explores the hurdles she has overcome while pursuing her passions and highlights her contributions to clinical research as both a participant and an advocate. Learn how Amanda shares her good and bad days with her daughter, who also has lupus. Amanda shares her longtime...
2023-12-0553 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaUnveiling Human Truths in Healthcare with Author, Audrey GaleIn the latest episode of the podcast, your host, Laura Nozicka delves into an intimate and touching narrative centered on author Audrey Gale's father's struggle with leukemia and his decision to take control of his medical treatment. Audrey long dreamed of being a writer and after 20 plus years in the banking industry, she grew tired of the corporate gamesmanship and pursued a master's in fiction writing at the University of Southern California. Her now second novel, "The Human Trial" is the first book in a medical thriller trilogy inspired by her own experiences with the gap between traditional medicine...
2023-11-2044 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaAn Urgent Plea!: 10-year-old Mark's Dire Search for a Bone Marrow DonorIn this heartfelt episode of "An Urgent Plea!: 10-year-old Mark's Dire Search for a Bone Marrow Donor," Laura Nozicka is joined by Matt Ciciretti, Mark's SuperDad and Ryan Peña, National Marketing Manager with NMDP/Be The Match.This is the Part 2 Episode and update to Episode 1 discussing Matt’s son’s undiagnosed bone marrow disorder. Matt shares his personal experiences and moments of gratitude as he perseveres to find answers and treatments for his son’s frequent nose bleeds and bi-weekly transfusion trips to the emergency room. After many months of pushing for answers, Matt has joyous...
2023-09-131h 15The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaEmpowering Women in Midlife and Overcoming Autoimmune ConditionsIn this episode of "Unlocking Wellness: Empowering Women in Midlife and Overcoming Autoimmune Challenges," host Laura Nozicka welcomes special guest Susie Day. Susie shares her personal journey with rheumatoid arthritis and her experience navigating the diagnostic process. She emphasizes the importance of turning her mess into her message and how it has transformed her life.Susie has been on a self-care journey for over 15 years since being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition. As a mentor for women in midlife dealing with autoimmune conditions, she offers practical advice and everyday practices to help...
2023-08-3150 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaMeg's Mystery Pain Symptoms: One Social Worker's 40-year Search for AnswersMeg needs your HELP! On this episode of The Desperate For a Diagnosis Podcast, my guest, Meg, expresses her frustration and a lack of acceptance regarding the current state of healthcare. She believes that it is unacceptable for people to be living with high levels of pain in today's society. Meg shares her personal experiences of feeling rushed and unable to fully explain her symptoms to a doctor. Meg expresses a desire for a different approach to diagnosing and treating chronic conditions. Meg talks about the impact of her condition on daily life and the worst parts about not...
2023-08-2449 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaNavigating Uncertainty and the "God Complex" in Medicine with Neurosurgeon and Novelist, Dr. Gary SimondsIn this episode, I am joined by Dr. Gary Simonds a highly experienced neurosurgeon, and former head of an academic neurosurgery program at Virginia Tech/Carilion Clinic. He is a professor, and teaches regularly at, the Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine.Gary has written and spoken widely on the subjects of neuroscience, medical school admissions, humanism, medical socioeconomics, medical ethics, burnout, personal wellness, spirituality, death and dying, and the interface between science and religion. Known for his compassion and sense of humor, he also writes fiction and is an...
2023-08-1458 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaUnraveling the Mystery: Laura's 9-year Journey Through a POTS DiagnosisLaura Roskelly is seeking medical treatment for an undiagnosed condition. Although she doesn't have a treatment plan yet, her condition is suspected to be Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). She discusses her frustrations with the medical system and the lack of understanding or support she has encountered. Laura describes experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches, flu-like symptoms, and difficulty performing daily tasks. She discusses the challenges of finding effective treatments and shares her experiences with different medications and holistic approaches. Laura whole-heartedly emphasizes the importance of having a support system and understanding family members who believe in their...
2023-08-021h 17The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaFrom 51 Doctors to Advocacy: A Gen Z's Journey to Uncover the Truth About Lyme DiseaseIn this episode, host, Laura Nozicka interviews Olivia Goodreau, a remarkable young lady who shares her journey with Lyme disease and the impact it has had on her life. Olivia's struggle with Lyme disease began at the age of six when she started experiencing tremors and blackouts. After years of tests and illness, she was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease and five other tick-borne illnesses.Despite debilitating symptoms and numerous hospital visits, Olivia has not let her condition define her. She is the founder of the LivLyme Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides support and financial assistance...
2023-07-121h 02The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaAuthor, Pamela Wirth's Inspiring Story of Writing, Wellness and Saving Her SonIn this episode, Pamela Wirth, a hockey mom and lifelong learner, shares her journey with her son's undiagnosed illness and how she trusted her intuition to seek alternative treatments. She eventually found a doctor who recommended plant-based supplements as an option, which the Pamela was willing to try due to her desperation for a solution. She emphasizes the importance of optimizing our bodies and treating illnesses as a puzzle with changing pieces. Pamela also discusses the benefits of natural treatments and detoxing the body. She provides a protocol and additional support through her website, Hello Health. Pamela's book, "Saving...
2023-06-2240 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaA Spouse Caregiver's Journey of Strength, Resilience, and Advocacy Through an MS Diagnosis with Author, Suzanne MarriottFor a patient, coping and coming to terms with a chronic or terminal illness is beyond difficult or easy to accept. For a spouse caregiver, it can be a labor of love yet daunting, frustrating, scary and filled with sorrow and sometimes denial. Author, Suzanne Marriott shares her journey caring for husband, Michael for ten years after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Suzanne lovingly discusses her experiences and talks about how Michael's diagnosis allowed him to explore different sides of himself as well as take their relationship to an entirely new level. Suzanne shares that mistakes are inevitable in...
2023-06-1350 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaThe Power of Patient Participation in Market Research and Clinical Trials with Pam Cusick, Rare Patient VoiceIn thisconversation, Pam Cusick of Rare Patient Voice discusses the importance ofpatients participating in market research and clinical trials. With over 1400conditions currently represented, Rare Patient Voice welcomes everyone who iswilling to participate. The conversation also touches on the challengespatients face when seeking medical attention and how Rare Patient Voiceempowers patients by connecting them with opportunities to share theirexperiences and make things better for themselves and others. With some partsof trials being done at home or via Zoom, patients have opinions aboutparticipating in these studies from the comfort of their own homes. Overall,Rare Patient Voice values patient input...
2023-05-2446 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaMelissa's Medical Mystery: A Personal Journey with Ehlers Danlos, POTS and a Service DogThe Desperate For a Diagnosis Podcast features Melissa Schroeder discussing her journey with Ehlers Danlos (EDS) and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). She talks about her struggles with joint dislocations and the difficulty of getting a diagnosis due to the high cost of genetic testing. Melissa shares her personal experience of struggling to find a diagnosis for their medical condition since childhood, even after seeing numerous doctors and specialists, including psychiatrists and therapists. She emphasizes the importance of persistence in seeking a diagnosis and encourages others to do her own research and advocate for themselves. Additionally, she discusses the...
2023-05-1846 minThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaA "Special Boy's" Mystery Genetic Disorder: One Dad's Crusade to Find Answers with Matthew CicirettiTitle: A "Special Boy's" Mystery Genetic Disorder: One Dad's Crusade To Find Answers, An Interview With Matthew CicirettiIn this heartfelt episode, Laura interviews Matt Ciciretti, a super dad of five kids, two dogs, three cats, and a goldfish. He shares his journey with his 10-year-old son Mark, his "special boy," who was born with a cleft lip and palate, and developmental delays. Doctors also recently discovered an undiagnosed genetic condition, an apparent bone marrow disorder, that has left the medical community puzzled. Mark specifically has a partial deletion of his 21 chromosome, called partial monosomy syndrome and...
2023-05-101h 01The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaThe Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast Official TrailerThis is a podcast featuring inspirational patient stories of perseverance to find the answers!
Welcome to The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura Nozicka.
I am so thrilled to be launching this podcast. I had intended to launch back in February of this year, 2023, but God had another plan. My dad passed away on January 29, 2023. He had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and type 2 diabetes in 2012. The thing is he was not unhealthy, he didn’t abuse himself, wasn’t a drinker or smoker but had a silent heart attack that was found on a...
2023-05-0402 min
The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast with Laura NozickaThe Desperate For A Diagnosis IntroductionEPISODES COMING SOON!
This is a podcast featuring inspirational patient stories of perseverance to find the answers! Are you tired of the healthcare revolving door? Have you seen doctor after doctor begging to put a name to your symptoms? How long have you been seeking answers? Months? Years? If this describes your experience, the "Desperate For a Diagnosis" podcast wants to tell your story!
Physicians often want the diagnosis that fits in a box with a pretty bow, then hand over the treatment plan and send you on your way. It doesn't always work that w...
2023-03-2102 min
Uncorking a StoryMaking Love, and Not Porn, with Cindy GallopI’ve been following Cindy Gallop for some time on LinkedIn—she’s one of those LinkedIn influencers who certainly takes the boring out of the platform. If there is one word that I would use to describe her, it’s provocative, and I know that I’m not alone in feeling that way—she caught the attention of my moderator friend and colleague Laura Nozicka too. So, when Cindy said yes to an interview request, I just had to bring Laura along for the ride, and I am so glad that I did. MEET CINDY GALLOP Cindy...
2022-03-2551 min