Beyond the Symptoms

In this episode of A WonderCare podcast, host Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist, delves into the lived experience of Doireann Barrett, who shares the profound and widespread impacts of endometriosis beyond reproductive health. Doireann discusses the challenges of finding specialised care in Ireland, the significant financial burdens imposed by chronic illness, and the systemic failings in healthcare and other public services. Despite facing numerous adversities, Doireann continues to advocate for better support and understanding for endometriosis patients. Sheena and Doireann emphasize the need for a 'health in all policies' approach, highlighting how interconnected factors such as housing and financial stability influence overall well-being. The episode ends with a call for listeners to hold elected officials accountable for implementing comprehensive health policies.

00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction

00:22 Impact of Chronic Disease on Life

00:53 Challenges in Endometriosis Treatment

02:42 Financial and Social Struggles

08:04 Housing and Healthcare System Failures

18:13 Advocacy and Support Resources

25:03 Conclusion and Call to Action

I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#healthinallpolicies #populationhealth #determinantsofhealth #endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity

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Endometriosis: Doireann's Story of Physical and Emotional Impact

In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a Pharmacist, welcomes Doireann Barrett to discuss the profound physical and emotional effects of endometriosis on her life. Doireann shares her journey with endometriosis, from experiencing symptoms since infancy, through misdiagnosis, to the challenges of living with a chronic condition. The conversation highlights the stigma, lack of understanding, and systemic failures in the healthcare system, emphasising the importance of better support and diagnosis for individuals with chronic health conditions. Tune in next week for a discussion on living with chronic diseases and the systemic impacts on one's life.

00:00 Introduction to A WonderCare Podcast

01:16 Doireann Barrett Shares Her Journey

03:10 Early Symptoms and Misdiagnosis

07:07 Living with Endometriosis: The Struggles

12:57 Navigating the Healthcare System

16:09 The Impact on Daily Life

21:01 Ongoing Challenges and Advocacy

30:41 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity #healthpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Sheena discusses endometriosis, covering the basics of what endometrial cells are, the symptoms and complications of the condition, and the potential causes. She explains diagnostics and various treatment options, including medical, surgical, and complementary therapies. She addresses the situation in Ireland regarding access to care and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Additionally, Sheena highlights underfunding in women's health research and the personal and systemic challenges faced by women with endometriosis. She also previews an upcoming interview with endometriosis sufferer and advocate, Darren Barrett.

00:00 Introduction to Endometriosis

01:03 Understanding Endometrial Cells

04:04 Symptoms of Endometriosis

05:00 Complications Arising from Endometriosis

06:43 Causes and Diagnosis of Endometriosis

08:41 Treatment Options for Endometriosis

12:54 Endometriosis Care in Ireland

16:02 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A WonderCare Podcast Season 12: Health Topics That Matter

In the debut episode of Season 12 of the Wonder Care podcast, the host outlines various health topics that will be covered. These include endometriosis, the rise of measles in the US, air quality issues, and summer health tips. The host emphasises the importance of informing the public about these issues and mentions their decision to rely on dietitians to handle the hot school meals advocacy. Additionally, the host addresses the #NotFreeHRT controversy and the financial challenges facing community pharmacists. Lastly, the host shares excitement about attending the European Health Management Conference in France and announces partnership support from Salin Plus, a company focused on improving air quality.

00:00 Welcome to Season 12!

00:44 Hot School Meals: Leaving it to the Dieticians

03:00 HRT and the Contraception Scheme Controversy

06:16 Upcoming Topics: Endometriosis, Measles, and More

08:36 Summer Health Tips and Conference Excitement

10:06 Podcast Schedule and Final Thoughts

11:05 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor: Salin Plus

Salin Plus available to buy from my online pharmacy here! Free Delivery and best price in Ireland!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Sheena interviews Tomi Reichental, a Holocaust survivor, who shares his harrowing story of being incarcerated at the Bergen Belsen concentration camp at the age of nine. Tomi recounts the persecution inflicted upon Jewish families in Slovakia under President Josef Tiso's regime, the dehumanising experiences faced by Jews, and the horrors of life in the concentration camps. Despite the immense suffering, Tomi represents hope, teaching valuable lessons on humanity, empathy, and the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities. His conversation with Sheena highlights the dangers of propaganda and the critical need for kindness in a world filled with conflict and hate.

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:20 Meeting Tomi and His Story Begins

02:18 Life in Slovakia Before the War

02:49 The Rise of Anti-Semitism and Persecution

05:49 Impact of the Jewish Codex

11:06 The Role of Propaganda and Community Response

16:43 Family's Struggle and Acts of Bravery

26:28 Tomi's Father's Arrest and Escape

28:02 The Family's Attempt to Escape

31:18 Arrest and Detention

32:54 Transport to Extermination Camp

33:45 Life in the Cattle Cart

36:00 Arrival at Bergen Belsen

37:12 Life in Bergen Belsen

40:31 Memories of Loss

43:25 Speaking Out About the Holocaust

49:32 The Importance of Remembering

53:23 Reflections on Modern Conflicts

58:10 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Tomi's book is available here - https://obrien.ie/tomi

Many thanks to DW Classical Music for snippets of music.

More information about the Holocaust is available from the Irish Jewish Museum - https://jewishmuseum.ie/jews-of-ireland/ireland-the-holocaust/

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A Plea to Support Community Pharmacy: Ensuring Fair Compensation and Sustainable Health Services

Sheena, a third-generation pharmacist, addresses the new Minister for Health, expressing concerns over the future of community pharmacy. She recounts the integral role of pharmacies in communities and shares personal anecdotes about growing up with a pharmacist father. Sheena highlights the discrepancy between government promises and the current inadequate compensation for pharmacists, which threatens the viability of local pharmacies. She emphasises that proper remuneration is essential for pharmacies to continue providing crucial health services without reducing hours or closing. She calls for streamlined administrative procedures, fair fees, and meaningful governmental support to sustain community pharmacies and maintain accessible healthcare for all.

00:00 Introduction to the Future of Pharmacy

00:16 Growing Up in a Pharmacy Family

01:54 The Role of Community Pharmacists

02:18 Challenges Facing Community Pharmacies

04:00 Financial Struggles and Pay Discrepancies

05:48 The Call for Fair Compensation

06:41 Impact on Services and Community Health

08:10 The Need for Policy Changes

10:48 Conclusion and Call to Action

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In this episode, Sheena introduces the concept of ultra processed foods and their impact on health. Aimed at parents and children, the discussion covers what ultra processed foods are, examples of such foods, and reasons why they are detrimental. She emphasises the importance of enjoying food while maintaining a balanced diet, explaining the nutritional benefits of natural foods and the drawbacks of ultra processed variants. The episode also includes conversations with her children to highlight their perspectives and ends with practical tips for reducing ultra processed foods in everyday diets.

00:00 Introduction to Ultra Processed Foods

00:30 The Importance of Natural Foods

02:35 Understanding Food Processing

05:56 The Problem with Ultra Processed Foods

09:15 Discussing Food with Kids

10:38 Healthy Eating Tips and Swaps

15:28 Unveiling Ultra-Processed Foods

15:58 The Hidden Ingredients in Your Food

17:04 Nutritional Deficiencies and Health Impacts

18:32 Recognising Ultra-Processed Foods

19:19 Making Healthier Food Choices

20:03 Understanding Food Processing Levels

21:55 The Deceptive Nature of Ultra-Processed Foods

25:59 Balancing Your Diet with the 80/20 Rule

28:47 Taking Control of Your Food Choices

29:31 Conclusion and Call to Action

#ultraprocessedfoods #upf #family #familyfood #ultraprocessed #familyhealth #healthydiet #healthyfood #ireland #irishpodcast #healthpodcast

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In this episode of the Wonder Care podcast, Sheena Mitchell discusses the critical issue of cardiovascular health in women, particularly focusing on high blood pressure. She highlights the increased risks for women, especially around menopause, and emphasizes the importance of regular blood pressure checks. Sheena talks about natural ways to manage and prevent high blood pressure, including dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. She also addresses the gender disparities in medical research and treatment related to cardiovascular disease. Practical tips such as adopting the DASH diet, increasing fiber intake, and moderate exercise are provided to help women take proactive steps towards better heart health.

00:00 Introduction to Women's Health

00:39 Understanding Cardiovascular Risks

01:28 The Silent Killer: High Blood Pressure

02:18 Proactive Health Measures

02:38 Gender Inequality in Medical Research

03:24 Improving Blood Pressure Naturally

08:04 Exercise: The Key to Heart Health

12:19 The Role of Diet in Blood Pressure Control

14:29 The Impact of Salt and Processed Foods

20:41 The Benefits of Potassium and Reducing Sugar

24:51 Alcohol, Caffeine, and Other Nutrients

30:45 Conclusion and Call to Action

#hypertension #womenshealth #medical #hearthealth #cardiovasculardisease #CVD #CHD #bloodpressure #saltintake #cardiovascularrisk

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