The It’s Me It’s Me It’s FND Podcast

Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Welcome to this episode of It's Me, It's Me, It's F&D. In this special edition, we honor Functional Neurological Disorder Day, celebrated annually on March 25th. The episode provides an insightful overview of FND, a condition where the brain's ability to send and receive signals is disrupted. Unlike common neurological disorders, FND is akin to a software malfunction, impacting individuals in various life-altering ways.
Learn about the challenges faced by those living with FND, the complexity of its diagnosis, and the array of symptoms, including fatigue, seizures, and migraines. Despite the daily struggles, there is hope, as discussed through available therapies and support from charitable organizations like FND Action, FND Hope, and the MyFND app.
Join us in spreading awareness and understanding of FND, a disorder that demands attention, empathy, and comprehensive care. As we navigate through the intricacies of this condition, remember that every little step towards awareness counts.
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/brain-nerves-and-spinal-cord/functional-neurological-disorder/ for information on fnd and links to charities and help please follow 

Navigating the Storm: Life with Functional Neurological Disorder

Welcome to "It's Me, It's Me, It's F&D," a podcast dedicated to navigating the complexities of living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Host shares personal experiences and insights, reflecting on a four-year journey of self-discovery and resilience. As he grapples with the challenges of maintaining control amidst the unpredictable nature of FND, he offers support and understanding to those on a similar path.This episode delves into the struggle of adapting to a new normal while empowering listeners to find strength and community in shared experiences. Tune in for genuine reflections on the impact of FND, the importance of self-care, and the power of kindness in our daily lives.

Balancing Parenthood, Creativity, and Chronic Illness: A New Year's Reflection

Welcome to the kickoff of 2025! As we step into the new year, our host reflects on the challenging yet rewarding journey of the past year. Juggling the demands of parenthood, creative ventures, and personal health issues, such as dealing with migraines, has not been easy.Despite the hurdles, there's a strong desire to improve and develop a structured plan for future podcast episodes. Our host discusses the difficulties of managing time effectively, especially with additional commitments and the new responsibilities of being a parent for the second time.As we welcome 2025, join us in looking forward to new possibilities and hoping for a year of growth and achievement.

Navigating Life's Challenges: Coping with FND and Migraines

In this heartfelt episode, the host opens up about the challenges of managing Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and migraines amidst life's demands. With candid reflections on family life and personal health struggles, the episode provides an intimate glimpse into the ongoing battle of balancing responsibilities and self-care.As the holiday season approaches, the host shares the emotional complexities of maintaining a positive environment for the family, despite personal difficulties. The episode delves into the mental health impact of chronic conditions and the importance of community support.Listeners are invited to share their experiences and coping strategies, fostering a sense of solidarity and understanding within the community. Join in for an honest discussion on the realities of living with FND and the quest for finding moments of peace in a hectic world.

Battling Life's Challenges: A Personal Update

In this heartfelt episode, our host opens up about the struggles and setbacks that have kept them away from the podcasting world. From the pressures of managing a YouTube channel to the stress of financial and family responsibilities, it's been a tough journey.They share their experiences dealing with mental health issues, navigating the complexities of universal credit, and the challenges of parenting an eight-month-old child. Despite the hardships, they are determined to get back on track and bring more episodes to their listeners.Tune in to hear a candid reflection on life's hurdles and the resilience needed to keep moving forward. As always, the message is clear: if you got out of bed this morning, you're already winning.

Navigating the PIP Pitfall: A Personal Journey

Welcome to "It's Me, It's Me, It's F&D." In this episode, we delve into the complexities of dealing with the Personal Independent Payment (PIP) form, a crucial yet challenging part of life for many.
Our host shares their personal struggles with the PIP review process, discussing the anxiety and difficulties faced, from gathering evidence to the nerve-wracking waiting period. Hear firsthand how dealing with non-medical professionals and bureaucratic hurdles can turn a necessary procedure into a nightmare.
Whether you're familiar with the PIP system or learning about it for the first time, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice on navigating this daunting process while managing your health and well-being.

Finding Independence: Navigating Home Adaptations 106

In this episode of "It's Me, It's Me, It's F&D," we shift focus from the challenges of Personal Independent Payment (PIP) to a personal journey of making home adaptations for better accessibility. Our host shares their recent experience with local council and occupational health services to install grab rails, a new banister, and other modifications to navigate their home more safely and comfortably.Discover the importance of asking for help and making necessary changes to maintain independence and safety, especially when living with a disability. Learn about the process, from contacting authorities to dealing with landlords, and the significant impact these adaptations can have on daily life.Join us for an insightful discussion on taking proactive steps to improve living conditions and embracing the new normal, while balancing family life and personal challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking practical advice and encouragement in their journey toward greater independence.

Personal Independent and Payment Issues

Welcome to 'It's Me, It's F&D,' a controversial episode that raises concerns about the UK government's understanding of 'disability' and its treatment of those challenged by mental health issues. This discussion focuses on the Personal Independent Payment (PIP), a system established to provide financial support for individuals dealing with disabilities.The episode delves deep into the injustices and discrepancies felt by those reliant on the PIP, particularly those with anxiety and depression. It also discusses the troubling reality of the UK government's inclination towards forcing them back into the workforce. Our host articulates a deep distrust for the government's current approach, which unfairly targets the most vulnerable.The host shares personal stories with F&D, a multi-faceted condition that can severely affect mental health. They further express concern for those unable to return to work due to illnesses, providing real-life examples such as chefs and hairdressers suffering from seizures. These personal experiences shed light on the extensive complexity of this health issue and the daily struggles faced by sufferers.The episode also critiques public officials who inaccurately represent the monetary support received by those with disabilities, highlighting the hypocrisy when compared to these officials' allowances. Moreover, bureaucracy comes under fire with mention of the 'brown envelope of death,’ illustrating the anxiety-inducing nature of awaiting a decision on one's PIP application.Finally, the podcast gets to the heart of the relentless hardships endured by F&D patients who are limited in the benefits they can apply for, resulting in just mere survival. The host ends on an inspiring note urging listeners to keep fighting for recognition and better treatment for all disabilities and mental health conditions.

Juggling Parenthood, FND, and Mental Health

In this episode of the podcast, the host openly discusses the struggles of adjusting to the new normal - balancing parenthood of a newborn, dealing with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), as well as grappling with depression. It provides a raw and relatable account of the host's journey navigating these challenges.
Conversation takes a deep dive into FND, including awareness events such as FND Awareness Month and Day. The host shares his personal experiences with F&D, including how it unexpectedly amplifies his other health conditions or triggers other mental health issues. He also details his recent battle with depression and the ways it has negatively impacted his mood and seizure control.
Throughout the episode, the struggles of living with FND are highlighted, particularly the feeling of losing control and the constant battle with oneself. The host candidly shares the emotional toll it takes, especially when it comes to perceived ability to provide for his family or set a good example for his children.
Despite these challenges, the host plans to continue to use the podcast as a platform to raise awareness and provide insight into FND. The episode ends on a hopeful note, with the host expressing his intention of finding a new normal and getting back into a regular podcasting schedule.

Struggling with Misinterpretations and Miscommunications 103

Welcome back to another episode of "It's Me, It's Me, It's F&D." After a brief hiatus, our host delves deep into his frustration and struggles concerning the misinterpretations and inaccuracies in his discharge letter. Unhappy with the contradiction between his reported health conditions and the consultant's inaccurate summary of his situation, he and his wife are taking steps to address this dire matter. Delving into the depths of medical jargon and misconceptions, our host grapples with the inappropriate use of outdated terminology and expresses his perturbation over the misrepresentation of his seizure frequency. His concern heightens when he reads mention of his newborn child, wrongly used to explain his chronic sleep deprivation, a problem that prevailed long before. Furthermore, he voices his irritation over implications that he failed to maintain the benefits of his psychotherapy sessions, despite the lack of ongoing support and assistance. Our host feels that the discharge letter is ill-considerately written, causing him utter anguish and frustration. The episode offers a closer look at medical negligence, bureaucracy, and the upheavals it can cause in a patient's life. Calling out the system, he resonates with countless others facing the same challenges while fighting their health battles. Simultaneously, he shares his hardships of dealing with Medquip, a company that has caused him more stress than comfort. Consequently, his seizures worsen, adding another layer to his ongoing health issues. Bridled with the feeling of failure and rejection, he anchors himself with a positive outlook on life and a reminder for his listeners to rest if needed. Tune in to this episode to delve into the complex life of F&D told through our host's heartfelt dialogue.