In the third episode of our three-part series on polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), we are joined by JP Summers, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF. JP shares what she’s learned from people living with PMR about managing their symptoms and advocating for themselves at doctor’s appointments.

JP and Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director of Community Outreach at GHLF, talk about the challenges of discussing health issues with loved ones but emphasize how these conversations can provide crucial support in diagnosing and managing PMR.

This episode was made possible with support from Sanofi.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:06: The Health Advocates share their personal highlights from the year in advocacy, emphasizing the importance and impact of patient advocacy, particularly through the 50-State Network

03:05: JP Summers shares her insights on advocating for oneself, and the importance of patients taking immediate action upon noticing symptoms and being proactive about their health

06:51: JP discusses how to navigate the stigma that can come with a chronic illness like PMR and advises on how to effectively ask for help from family, friends, and health care providers

08:30: JP talks about the broader aspects of advocacy, including engaging with legislators and stakeholders

12:20: JP reflects on her conversations with PMR patients, highlighting the importance of community support and the power of sharing one’s story as a form of advocacy

22:44: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

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