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Episode 89 – Kathryn Swaim: A Tribute to Brain Tumor Awareness Month


Published: Thursday May 15, 2025
episode eighty nine of pushing forward with alycia a disability podcast features kathryn swaim

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Finding Power in Chronic Illness & Control Beliefs

In this episode of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ host Alycia Anderson welcomes guest Kathryn Swaim, a PhD student from North Carolina State University focusing on lifespan development psychology. Kathryn shares her personal journey with chronic migraines and her unexpected diagnosis of a benign brain tumor. They discuss the challenges of self-advocacy in the healthcare system, the impact of chronic illness on identity, and the importance of trust and resilience in navigating these experiences. Kathryn also highlights the intersectionality of identity in the context of healthcare and the power of having a supportive community. This episode release is in honor of May as Brain Tumor Awareness Month and offers invaluable insights into the lived experiences of those facing chronic illness and the critical need for self-advocacy.

A Quote from Kathryn

Your voice is the most  powerful tool you can use in the healthcare system.

~ Kathryn Swaim

What Emerged from the Conversation

💪 A Powerful Reminder of Inner Strength

🩺 Your Voice in Healthcare

⏩ Empowerment and Safety in a Fast-Paced Life

😱 Shocking Diagnosis: a Mass in My Brain

🌟 Trusting Yourself as a Key to Personal Resilience

😨 Facing Your Worst Fears

🗣️ The Conversation We’re Not Having Enough Of

⏱️ Finding the Right Doctor is Like Speed Dating

🔥 Finding Strength in Passion and the Drive to Keep Going

🌀 Living with Chronic Migraines is a Lifelong Battle

📢 Finding Your Voice in the Midst of Chaos

🌈 Touching on the Intersectionality of Identity

Key Points on the Clock

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Meet Kathryn Swaim: A Journey Through Chronic Illness

01:32 The Diagnosis: Discovering a Brain Tumor

07:12 Navigating the Healthcare System

15:05 The Power of Self-Advocacy

17:29 Intersectionality in Healthcare

24:53 Finding Strength and Support

31:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia. Open hearts, clear paths. Let’s go.