The Neurological Disorder Podcast
The Neurological Disorder Podcast is hosted by Yale University freshman Mridula Bharathi, a young changemaker and advocate for neurological disorders. In this podcast, she interviews people who are affected by neurological diseases, and they share their inspiring stories as a fighter of the disorder. She also talks with doctors and surgeons who are experts on these disorders, researchers who are working to find cures for them, and more! Through this podcast, she hopes to spread awareness for these neurological conditions so more people can stay informed, look out for early signs of these sometimes debilitating conditions, and be involved in creating a change, through legislative advocacy and community awareness, to improve care for everyone impacted by neurological diseases.
The Neurological Disorder Podcast
27. Chiari Malformation ft. Debbie Ryan
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What can Chiari malformation reveal about the gaps that still exist in neurological care and patient awareness?
This week's episode features my conversation with Debbie Ryan, an inspiring mother of four from West Ireland who is studying anatomy and physiology, reflexology, and holistic massage, while also navigating life with Chiari malformation.
In this conversation, Debbie opens up about her diagnosis journey, the symptoms that led her to seek answers, and the emotional impact of living with Chiari while navigating everyday life. We talk about how her experiences motivated her to create an online community to spread awareness and support others with Chiari malformation.
We also discuss the realities of navigating healthcare with a chronic neurological condition and compare the healthcare systems in Ireland and the United States, including both the strengths and the challenges patients face in each system.
Debbie is such a genuine, resilient, and thoughtful person, and I think her story will resonate with so many people — whether you’re personally affected by Chiari malformation, interested in neurology, or simply looking to hear from someone who’s turned adversity into advocacy.
Don’t forget to rate and subscribe to The Neurological Disorder Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Fill out this form in bio if you have questions, guest suggestions, or topics you would love to hear about!
Feel free to contact me via:
Email: neurologicaldisorderpodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @neurologicaldisorderpodcast
Debbie: @chiarimalformationireland
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chiari-malformation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354010
- https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/chiari-malformation