Acromegaly is a rare condition caused by a pituitary tumour that leads to excess growth hormone. In this episode, Carolyn shares candidly how her symptoms, which developed slowly and over a long period of time, were mistaken for menopause or normal aging, until a series of unusual infections led to her diagnosis.

She reflects on the shock of being told she had a brain tumour, the challenges of undergoing major surgery, and the ongoing reality of living with residual tumour and long-term treatment. We also talk about the importance of listening to your body, and the progressive journey to recovery and feeling your own self again. Carolyn’s story is one of resilience and hope: she has run marathons, completed triathlons, and learned to manage her energy carefully while still embracing life fully.

The song that Carolyn chose is Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield.

Giselle shares her journey with Cushing syndrome, a rare and often misunderstood condition caused by an overproduction of cortisol. For years, Giselle’s symptoms were dismissed by doctors as lifestyle-related issues, despite her insistence that something deeper was wrong. She describes the frustration of being unheard, the relief of finally receiving a diagnosis, and the resilience it took to advocate for herself. Giselle’s story is not only about overcoming medical challenges but also about learning to trust her intuition, seek second opinions, and embrace recovery with hope and gratitude. Her message is one of strength, persistence, and encouragement for others who may be questioning their own health.

The song that Giselle chose is Rise Up by Andra Day.

Dariya’s rare autoimmune kidney condition, HSP Nephritis, has shaped much of her childhood and continues to affect her life today. Diagnosed as a child after a long and difficult journey to recognition, Dariya opens up about the physical struggles, hospital experiences, and the lasting impact of her condition. She describes how it affected her mental well-being, leading to PTSD, OCD, and borderline personality disorder. Yet, Dariya speaks with honesty and resilience about how therapy, persistence, and the support of her loved ones have helped her find stability and strength. Today, she works in healthcare herself, bringing compassion and understanding to patients with complex needs.

The song that Dariya chose is Hold My Girl by George Ezra.