What does it mean to grow up and grow older with a rheumatic disease?Andrea Ou-Hingwan and Cristina Montoya share their experiences navigating chronic illness from adolescence into adulthood.Andrea was diagnosed with lupus at 16 and founded TLC (Taking Life as a Challenge), a support group for youth living with chronic illness. She continues to advocate for people with invisible disabilities through education, storytelling, and volunteer work.Cristina is a registered dietitian and the founder of Arthritis Dietitian. Having lived with rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren’s disease for over 20 years, she supports people with inflammatory arthritis through practical, nonrestrictive approaches to nutrition.Together, they discuss:• Their diagnoses and early healthcare experiences• Unexpected challenges in adulthood• Careers, workplace accommodations, and self-advocacy• Family planning and parenting with chronic illness• Mental health, grief, and coping strategies• Social support and invisible disabilities• Advice for young people and familiesWatch now to hear their honest lessons, challenges, and perspectives on building a meaningful life with rheumatic disease.Read more about our in person event from last year: https://www.takeapaincheck.com/in-per... !Our socials:

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