Murder in Illinois

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Case #24: Sumaira Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

When Sumaira was 24, what seemed like a routine wisdom teeth extraction quickly set off a series of unexpected health issues. Soon after, her vision in her right eye began to fade—a small nuisance she tried to ignore. But as her eyesight continued deteriorating, it became clear this wasn’t a passing problem. Eventually, doctors uncovered a deeper issue, revealing a diagnosis that would change everything she thought she knew about her health.

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To find out more about NMOSD and Sumaira’s amazing advocacy and foundation at SumairaFoundation.org.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Case #23: Mik Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

Mik’s health challenges began at an early age, with unusual symptoms like recurring staph infections from small cuts—signs that both doctors and her family brushed aside. Later, she experienced rapid early-onset puberty, facing changes far earlier than most kids. But as these symptoms intensified, her parents soon realized this was something far more serious.

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You can also follow Mik’s story @MikZazon, and to learn more about endometriosis, you can check out Dr. Karen Tang’s work @KarenTangMD.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

House Calls - Case #13: Alisha Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

In this next installment of Symptomatic: House Calls, we catch up with Alisha from Case #13.

Spoiler Alert: If you haven’t listened to this episode yet, you might want to do so first HERE.

Alisha was diagnosed with psoriasis at just 7 years old. Feeling deeply self-conscious and isolated by others’ reactions to seeing her body covered by plaques, she adapted by hiding under long sleeves in the summer and convincing herself she’d never feel the rain on her skin again. Then she discovered the power of biologics, which changed her life.

Join host Lauren Bright Pacheco as she checks in with Alisha on her progress and the response she’s received since bravely sharing her story.

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Case #22: Mila Nov 12, 2024

Show notes

In her mid-20s and thriving in a fast-paced communications job, Mila began experiencing symptoms reminiscent of those her mom had managed with diabetes for years. However, as time went on, it became clear that this was different. Little did she know, her life was about to take a significant turn, leading her on an unexpected journey with a chronic illness she never saw coming.

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To find out more about Mila’s work and her yummy recipes at HangryWoman.com and Dr. Thangudu at HeyHealthy.com.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Case #21: Scott Nov 05, 2024

Show notes

In peak health, Scott's life took a drastic turn when a rare disease nearly claimed it all. Initially misdiagnosed and dismissed, his symptoms escalated into a near-fatal episode, revealing the true extent of his condition. Forced to confront challenges affecting his heart, lungs, and more, Scott’s journey became one of resilience and survival against all odds.

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To find out more about Scott and Rebecca’s work with The Creative Cartel at TheCreativeCartel.com.

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House Calls - Case #02: Athena Oct 29, 2024

Show notes

In this bonus episode, we introduce Symptomatic: House Calls. Throughout Season 3, we will reconnect with past guests to get updates on how they’ve been managing their conditions and how their lives have changed since appearing on the show.

For our first House Call, we revisit Athena from Case #2. As a young teenager, Athena began experiencing painful, pimple-like abscesses that were misdiagnosed for years.

Spoiler Alert: If you haven’t listened to this episode yet, you might want to do so first HERE.

Athena was eventually diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, a chronic inflammatory condition. Join host Lauren Bright Pacheco as she catches up with Athena to hear exciting life updates and her latest experiences living with HS. Discover the challenges she’s faced, the progress she’s made, and the significant moments that have shaped her life.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Case #20: Kelly Oct 22, 2024

Show notes

In her early 30s, Kelly was suddenly plagued by a series of inexplicable health issues, from severe heartburn to rapid weight gain, leaving doctors utterly baffled. Misdiagnosed and even subjected to brain surgery, Kelly’s journey took a shocking turn with an unexpected genetic revelation.

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To find out more about polymorphism or the work of the Mayo Clinic, you can visit their website at MayoClinic.org.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Case #19: Jose Oct 15, 2024

Show notes

At 18, Jose faced a whirlwind of hospital visits, severe abdominal pain, and debilitating fatigue. Having already given up his dream of becoming a professional boxer and now risking his education, Jose was desperate for answers. At his lowest point, the fighter in him emerged, pushing him and his mom to seek solutions before the unknown illness could take even more from his life.

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To find out more about ulcerative colitis, you can check out the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation’s website at CrohnsColitisFoundation.org.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UPDATE: Chris Vaughn talks to Jason Flom and Lauren Bright Pacheco Aug 24, 2024

Show notes

For the first time, Chris Vaughn is breaking his silence - hear him tell his harrowing story in his own words to Jason Flom and Lauren Bright Pacheco on Episode #470 of Wrongful Conviction. Listen here: https://link.chtbl.com/5CpQO-g9

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Reassessment of Prostate Cancer Treatment (Live from the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting) Aug 06, 2024

Show notes

About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Join Lauren Bright Pacheco at the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago, as she investigates the advancements in prostate cancer care. Dr. Mohammad Atiq shares ways innovative treatments are paving the way for better outcomes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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